Las Vegas Celebrates 120th Anniversary with Helldorado Days Parade

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Participants showcase the rich culture of Las Vegas during the Helldorado Days Parade.

News Summary

The Helldorado Days Parade was held on Saturday, marking the 120th anniversary of Las Vegas. Featuring 135 entries, including high school marching bands and cultural groups, the parade drew a large crowd. Recognized as the longest-running event in Las Vegas, the parade has evolved since its inception in 1935 to honor the city’s heritage and community spirit.

Las Vegas Celebrates 120th Anniversary with Helldorado Days Parade

The Helldorado Days Parade took place on Saturday, celebrating the rich western roots of Las Vegas and coinciding with the city’s milestone 120th anniversary. The event, which features a vibrant display of local culture, ran from 10 a.m. to approximately noon along Fourth Street, between Gass and Stewart Avenues, and drew a large crowd eager to participate in the festive atmosphere.

This year’s parade included a total of 135 entries representing various local organizations, schools, artists, car and motorcycle clubs, and cultural groups. Participants delighted spectators with floats, 11 high school marching bands, cowboys and cowgirls on horseback, and lively costumed dancers.

Historical Significance and Evolution

The Helldorado Days Parade is recognized as the longest-running event in Las Vegas, with roots that trace back to its inception in 1935. Originally envisioned by Clyde Zerby, the parade aimed to attract dam workers and visitors during the development of the Hoover Dam. Over time, it became a beloved tradition and was formerly known as the Las Vegas Days Parade.

As part of the celebration of the 120th anniversary of the 1905 land auction that ultimately led to the founding of Las Vegas, the parade serves as a symbol of the city’s heritage. The event is organized with the support of the Commission for the Las Vegas Centennial, which recognizes the importance of local history and community spirit.

Event Logistics and Engagement

Spectators enjoyed an array of amenities, including shaded grandstands located on Bridger Avenue, and a variety of food trucks providing refreshments and fun giveaways throughout the event. KSNV-TV anchors narrated the parade and played a role in judging entries, focusing on categories such as Best Marching Band, Best Casino Float, and Best Historic Las Vegas-themed Float. Each winning entry for the best marching band and float received a $500 prize.

The participation of local school groups was supported by the city, which funds their involvement by providing financial assistance for the construction of floats and funding for marching bands. This encourages young participants to engage with their community and fosters a sense of pride in local culture.

Community and Cultural Impact

The Helldorado Days Parade not only celebrates Las Vegas’s past but also serves as an opportunity for community engagement. The event attracts a diverse audience, uniting residents and visitors in appreciation of the city’s history and culture. The festival’s popularity even inspired a 1946 film featuring Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, further embedding the event into local lore.

While the 1990s saw the introduction of a week of rodeo events as part of Helldorado Days, the rodeo component has since been moved to November. The city acknowledges the importance of rekindling this connection to rodeo traditions but faces challenges related to the timing and ensuring animal welfare amidst the summer heat.

In conclusion, the Helldorado Days Parade exemplifies the community’s sense of history and togetherness, celebrating Las Vegas’s unique character and traditions while promoting engagement among its residents. The spirited event not only marks an important anniversary but also serves as a continuing tribute to the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.