Downtown Rodeo Parade

Feb. 25, 2012

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.

At the 73rd Downtown Rodeo Parade, country music superstar Clay Walker served as the Downtown Rodeo Parade's Grand Marshal.

Route

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

2011 Float Awards

Category	Group
Sweepstakes Award	International Committee
Theme Award	La Michoacana Meat Market
Originality Award	Supermercados Teloloapan
Most Beautiful Award	KIAH Channel 39
Chairman's Award	Houston Community College
President's Award	Fiesta Mart

2011 Trail Ride Awards

Category	Group
Top Trail Ride	Southwest Trail
Best Appearing Group	Salt Grass #7
Best Show Wagon	Texas Independence #1

Click HERE for the 2010 Parade Float and Trail Ride Awards
Click HERE for the 2009 Parade Float and Trail Ride Awards
Click HERE for the 2008 Parade Float and Trail Ride Awards
Click HERE for the 2007 Parade Float and Trail Ride Awards