News Summary
Las Vegas will host the 90th annual Helldorado Days Parade on May 10, celebrating its western roots and local history. The parade has evolved over the years, with 135 entrants expected, including school bands and floats. Viewers can enjoy food trucks and family-friendly activities at the event. As a unique tradition, the parade reflects the city’s spirit of community, commemorating important anniversaries in Las Vegas history.
Las Vegas is set to celebrate its rich history with the annual Helldorado Days Parade on May 10, starting at 10 a.m. This year is particularly significant as it marks the 90th anniversary of the parade, a cherished local tradition that first began in 1935.
The parade was originally organized by carnival promoter Clyde Zerby with the aim of attracting workers involved in the construction of the Hoover Dam. Today, it stands as the only parade produced by the City of Las Vegas, showcasing the city’s vibrant western roots and cultural heritage.
As part of this year’s festivities, Las Vegas honors not only the long-standing tradition of the Helldorado Days Parade but also the city’s 120th anniversary, which falls shortly after on May 15. Since 2005, the parade has been an annual event coinciding with the city’s centennial celebration, allowing residents and visitors alike to come together and commemorate their communal history.
Approximately 135 entrants are expected to participate in this year’s parade. Participants will include local school marching bands and equestrian groups. To encourage local school involvement, the city provides funding, offering $1,500 for floats and $1,000 for school bands. Additionally, a judging panel will award prizes, including a $500 reward for the best marching band and best float.
The recommended viewing area for spectators is located at Fourth Street and Bridger Avenue, where new shade structures have been added to enhance comfort during the event. The grandstands at the viewing area will feature food trucks and giveaways, aiming to create a family-friendly atmosphere and promote community spirit.
As the parade unfolds, local news anchors Chloe Koast and Evan Schreiber are set to serve as emcees, guiding attendees through the activities. A significant aspect of the Helldorado Days is its evolution over the years. Previously, rodeo events were part of the celebrations but have now transitioned to November, reflecting changes in community interests and approaches to celebration.
To ensure safety and smooth operations during the event, Fourth Street will close between Gass and Stewart Avenues starting at 6 a.m. on May 10. The Helldorado Days Parade continues to represent a strong sense of community, reflecting the spirit of togetherness while honoring the city’s diverse history.
In summary, the Helldorado Days Parade is not just an annual event; it is a vibrant tribute to the legacy of Las Vegas, where past and present converge to celebrate the local culture. With its deep roots in community efforts to maintain morale and promote local employment following the construction of the Hoover Dam, the parade remains a pivotal part of Las Vegas’s identity.
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Additional Resources
- Las Vegas Weekly: Helldorado Days Parade is Back Downtown
- KTNV: Geary Company
- 8 News Now: Western Flair Rodeo Fun Return to Las Vegas
- Review Journal: Helldorado Days Parade Celebrates Las Vegas Heritage
- Hoodline: Las Vegas to Celebrate Community and Tradition
- Wikipedia: Las Vegas
- Google Search: Helldorado Days Parade
- Google Scholar: Las Vegas Parade
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Las Vegas
- Google News: Las Vegas Helldorado Days
