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At noon Thursday, dozens of Longhorn cattle marched through the streets of downtown Denver, kicking off the National Western Stock Show Parade. This tradition dates back to his 2006, when the parade included a running of the bulls downtown.
This year, the Texas longhorn herd will come from Silverado Ranch, based in Monument and Ellicott, Colorado. Like every year, cowhands from several area ranches gather to stand in single file as the cows herd through the city streets.
Denver Broncos legend Randy Gradishar becomes grand marshal This year’s parade marks the beginning of the 118th Stock Show. The parade route follows the cattle drive from Union Station to 17th Street and Graham Place, and is open to the public.
Hundreds of people lined the streets to watch the parade, including Elaine Quinn, a Virginia native who now lives in the Denver metropolitan area.
“We don’t have animals like that on the East Coast. We’re becoming Westerners moving out here,” Elaine said.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing the animals,” said Camille Plumley, who attended the parade dressed as a Western Wear Barbie.
“I thought, oh my god, there are so many animals,” said Jackie Andazola, who loves watching the stock show parade.
The stock show opens at 9am on January 6th. More than 300 events and activities will be held, including horse shows, professional rodeos, family events, shopping, livestock shows, and more.
Photo gallery: National Western Stock Show Parade 2024
“We are very excited to open the doors to the 118th Stock Show,” Paul Andrews, president and CEO of the National Western Stock Show, said in a statement. “Given the excitement of livestock entries, rodeos, event ticket sales, and excitement around the state, the Stock He Show is the place to be this month.”
According to the Common Sense Institute, the stock show’s economic impact over the 16-day event totaled $171 million in 2023.
Link: National Western Stock Show
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