Denver returns to "Cow Town" status as dozens of Longhorns kick off National Western Stock Show Parade
At noon on Thursday, dozens of Longhorn cattle made their way along the streets of downtown Denver to kick off the National Western Stock Show Parade. It's a tradition that dates back to 2006 when the parade featured a downtown cattle drive.
This year, the herd of Texas Longhorns comes from Silverado Ranch, headquartered at Monument and Ellicott in Colorado. As with every year, cowhands from several area ranches will keep the cattle in line as they are herded through the city streets.
Denver Broncos legend Randy Gradishar is the grand marshal of this year's parade to kick off the 118th Stock Show. The parade route followed the cattle drive from Union Station to 17th Street to Glenarm Place and is open to the public.
Hundreds of people showed up to line the streets and watch the parade, including Elaine Quinn who is originally from Virginia and now lives in the Denver metro area.
"We don't have animals like that on the East Coast. We are turning into Westerners moving out here," said Elaine.
"I am very excited to see all of the animals," said Camille Plumley who attended the parade dressed as Cowgirl Barbie.
"I'm just like oh my gosh. That's a lot of animals," said Jackie Andazola who loves to watch the stock show parade.
The stock show opens its doors at 9 a.m. on Jan. 6. There are more than 300 events and activities, including horse shows, pro rodeos, family events, shopping and livestock shows.
PHOTO GALLERY: National Western Stock Show Parade 2024
"We are so excited to open our doors for the 118th edition of Stock Show," said Paul Andrews, President & CEO of the National Western Stock Show, in a statement. "Based on our livestock entries, rodeo, and event ticket sales, and the sheer excitement around our state, Stock Show is the place to be this month."
According to the Common Sense Institute, the economic impact of the Stock Show for the 16-day event totaled $171 million in economic activity in 2023.
