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Downtown Rodeo Parade

Feb. 27, 2010

For 71 years, every February the nation’s fourth largest city is transformed from a bustling metropolis to a down-home celebration of Western heritage. Decorative floats intermingle with thousands of men and women on horseback to join the skyscrapers and freeways and fill the streets with hoof beats and marching bands. Enthusiastic Houstonians join out-of-town spectators to line the streets and sidewalks to be involved in one of Houston’s most popular celebrations!

The first parade, held in 1938, was being planned in the midst of the 1937 Show. J. Howard West, who was the entertainment chairman of the local community leaders, the Jaycees, suggested the idea that it should be “the pomp and ceremony of a Roman holiday.” An owner of a local advertising and public relations firm jumped on the bandwagon to plan the extravaganza. It is doubtful even the Romans could envision such a display of artistic creation and Western pride!

The first parade was led by mounted police escorts to great success! The line-up included state, county and city officials, two bands, and a drum and bugle corps, as well as special VIP guests on horseback. Today, the Downtown Rodeo Parade includes dignitaries, city, county and state officials on horseback, as well as trail riders, numerous marching bands, and colorful floats. Each float vies for coveted awards, including theme, sweepstakes, president’s choice, and grand prizes.

2009 Route

Click HERE to download a printable PDF of the 2009 Downtown Rodeo Parade Route.

2009 Winners

Category Group
Sweepstakes Award Fiesta
Theme Award Supermercados Teloloapan
Originality Award Goya Foods
Most Beautiful Award Strawberry Festival
Chairman's Award La Michuacana
President's Award Texas Steel Fabricators

Category Group
Top Trail Ride Southwestern
Best Appearing Group Valley Lodge Trail Ride Wagon 4
Best Show Wagon Mission Trail Ride Wagon 3


  • Click HERE for the 2008 Parade Float and Trail Ride Awards
  • Click HERE for the 2007 Parade Float and Trail Ride Awards

 

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