Scottsdale, Arizona – Want to know what the Wild West feels like without leaving the city? Then mark your calendars and head out to the 70th Annual Parada del Sol Parade and Trail’s End Festival happening on Saturday, February 3, 2024, in Old Town Scottsdale. The highlight attraction is the parade, which takes place from 10 AM to 12 PM, with Grand Marshal Barry Goldwater, Jr. taking the lead. But don’t think the fun is over yet! Immediately following the parade, the Trail’s End Festival kicks off! This event is marking its 70th year in action, so the theme is right on point: “70 Years and Still Groovin’, the Western Cool Vibe”.
Parada del Sol Parade & Trail’s End Festival
Saturday, February 3, 2024
Old Town Scottsdale
Scottsdale, Arizona
Credit: Scottsdale Parada del Sol Parade & Trails End Festival
History
An event set in Scottsdale which is noted as “The West’s Most Western Town,” brings not just fun and entertainment but a fair bit of history. The event became known as the Parada del Sol Parade in 1953, previously known as the Sunshine Festival. A community group called the Scottsdale Jaycees beefed up the event and changed the name to what it is now, which in Spanish means “A Walk in the Sun.” This was the same year that an author who wrote for the Tribune newspaper noted folks were starting to call Phoenix the “Valley of the Sun,” which made the new name fit even more appropriately.
Special Thanks to the Community Volunteers
To add to the history, this parade is one of the longest-running community events in the city with the help of a core group of community volunteers with lifelong experiences of watching and participating in the event. The Scottsdale Charros have been riding in the parade for nearly as long as it has been in existence and recently took over management of the event in 2021. The Charros are committed to making the parade even bigger and better in an effort to be able to raise as much money as possible for the community. The Charros credit the hard work of the Parada del Sol Committee, which is made up of volunteers who are dedicated to creating a safe, fun, vibrant, community-minded event year after year.
Trail’s End Festival
Once the parade ends, you don’t want to miss the Trail’s End Festival, a one-of-a-kind event where historic Old Town Scottsdale turns into a huge family-friendly event featuring food, drink, merchandise, art, crafts, food trucks, and a kid’s zone. On top of all that fun, there will be multiple stages with entertainment varieties ranging from popular bands to traditional performers. This event is at the end of the parade route at Brown Ave. and Indian School Road.
Credit: Scottsdale Parada del Sol Parade & Trails End Festival
Entertainment at the Trail’s End Festival
Check out the Western Fusion Band right after the parade is over at the Silverado Main Stage, and then head over to the Fiesta Scottsdale Stage to watch Ballet Folklorico Ollin. This show is put on by Ollin Yoliztli Mexican Culture, Dance and Arts Institute, an Arizona-based educational institution founded in 1994 under the direction of Master instructor, choreographer & researcher Ana M. Bonilla. Its mission is the pursuit of artistic excellence and the development of cultural diversity impact around the world. They work to connect the world through the beauty of the Mexican folklore arts and inspire a lasting love and appreciation for Mexico through exhilarating performances.
Put on Your Walking Boots
Put on those boots that are made for walking because you’ll want to head back over to the Silverado Main Stage to check out Chad Freeman & Redline. Founded in 2009, Chad Freeman and Redline have been a staple in the country music scene for well over a decade. They have performed for NASCAR, NFR, PBR, and Super Bowl, as well as countless festivals from Nashville to Oregon, and opened for over 20 national acts. Chad also spent four years touring the world with the iconic Village People, performing in 15 countries and being a part of Steve Harvey’s Times Square New Year’s Eve 2019. CFR brings a variety of country music infused with some southern and classic rock. This talented group has years of experience bringing music to the masses and loves to be one with the crowd!
Credit: Scottsdale Parada del Sol Parade & Trails End Festival
Parade and Festival Tips and Tricks
This is an event you’ll want a front-row seat to, so plan to get there early and bring your best camping chair. This year’s parade embarks from Drinkwater Boulevard south down Scottsdale Road, turns right on 1st Street, then left on Marshall Way, east on Second Street, and concludes, heading north on Brown Avenue to Indian School Road. Pick your favorite spot along the route and get as close to the street as you can!
Credit: Scottsdale Parada del Sol Parade & Trails End Festival
Get Your Western Attire On
Wear your walking shoes (or boots, if you really want to fit in). You won’t want to miss out on any of the fun because you’re a tenderfoot! Also, don’t forget to wear your best cowgirl and cowboy attire. This is your chance to step into the West and feel like you’re there. So you’ll wan to fit the part!
Credit: Scottsdale Parada del Sol Parade & Trails End Festival
This is the Time to Make Core Memories
Most importantly, enjoy your time surrounded by your friends and family and 30,000 other people who are there to enjoy this Wild West tradition!
Credit: Scottsdale Parada del Sol Parade & Trails End Festival
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