National Western Stock Show Parade 2024

January 4, 2024

The National Western Stock Show is back in town for its 118th year! This annual event is a huge draw for exhibitors, patrons, and vendors alike. And although I’ve lived in Colorado my whole life, I don’t believe I’ve ever attended the kick-off parade! This lovely tradition showcases many of the participants in the show, along with a special demonstration of driving Longhorn cattle through the streets of downtown Denver. It sure is a sight to behold, and one that I FINALLY got to witness firsthand!

While I do consider myself quite an independent adventurer, I really struggled with the decision to attend this year’s event. I don’t know if it was because I would be attending by myself, dealing with downtown Denver (and the people & parking nightmares that can come with it), or feeling a bit doubtful of my photography recently, but it took me a solid 2 days and several hours to finally convince myself that I should go this year. I finally had a day off, no prior commitments, and the weather was even cooperative for a January day in Colorado. Either way, I’m glad my inner voice talked me into doing it, and I was not disappointed with my decision!

I got bundled up in several layers, had my cameras already charged and ready, and made record time driving to the event. I even found a meter to park at that was close to the action and in an easy to access location. I kept thinking to myself, “why was I so afraid to do this?” I tell you, the recent struggle I’ve had as an artist lately has really messed with my head.

Anyway, I made it to the parade starting/staging area about 11:15 am, with the parade kick-off at noon. I worked my way through the crowds and took in all the noise, sights, and smells. There were a couple marching bands practicing directly in front of Union Station’s beautiful entrance. There were carriages pulled by gorgeous draft horses lined up along the street in front of Union Station as well. The crowd was clamoring; happy and excited to see the action. The temperatures weren’t all that bad either. I scoped out a few spots where I might be able to take photos, then got set up and waited.

Parade volunteers mingled and handed out 2-for-1 coupons for the opening weekend. I took one, but had told myself a couple weeks ago that I wasn’t going to attend the stock show this year. Now, here I was at the parade. And although there was a fairly large crowd, everyone seemed friendly and kind. I stood at 18th & and Wynkoop as I waited for the parade to start.

The Rodeo Royalty, including Miss Rodeo Colorado and Miss Rodeo America were just across the street from me (how neat). Next, a few more draft horses pulling wagons came through, then finally, the moment almost all of us were waiting for - here came the Longhorns! Now, this may seem like no big deal, but when you are watching a herd of maybe 20+ Longhorn cattle running down the street straight at you, flanked on all sides by cowboys and their amazing horses, it is one of the most awesome sights. I teared up seeing it (although, almost any horse event makes me tear up nowadays). The cattle were literally an arms length away from me as they passed by and I scrambled to get as many photos as I could. Even though I was there in plenty of time to get ready, I actually didn’t have my camera settings right, so I only got a few clear shots *sad face.

I’m not an amateur, but I felt a bit silly having my camera settings wrong for about half the parade. I did finally switch them and I think I got some great images. I’ll let you be the judge (see my gallery below).

The parade itself was longer than I thought it would be, but it was so wonderful to see so many happy people showing off their beautiful animals, all while dressed to the nines in show clothes, period costumes, and traditional pieces. A true cowboy experience. I don’t know if I’ll be able to attend the kick-off parade again (hope so), but I’m really glad I took the time and braved all the things my mind objected to so I could witness something that is truly unique & special. I hope to add another entry about the Stock Show events I attend as well.

Thanks for looking & enjoy!