Stock Show Kick-Off Parade

Stock Show Parade

The sight of over 30 Longhorn cattle walking through the streets of downtown Denver can only mean one thing…it’s Stock Show time.

The National Western Stock Show transforms Denver into the ultimate Western destination starting with the annual Kick-off Parade. On this one afternoon in January, the streets of downtown Denver are lined with boots, chaps, and cowboy hats to celebrate Colorado’s western traditions and the iconic National Western Stock Show. Kids, families, businessmen, and women get to step back in time and see a true western cattle drive with horses, cowboys, cowgirls, tractors, marching bands, and floats.

Thursday | January 9 at Noon
Start: Union Station at 17th Street
End: 17th & Glenarm Pl

Important Public Safety Policy: 

To guarantee the safety of everyone involved, the parade route is strictly reserved for authorized participants—including parade entries, performers, animals, and vehicles. Unauthorized access is prohibited.

• Please Stay Off the Parade Route:
  Unauthorized photographers, videographers, or members of the public are not allowed to walk, stand, or cross the parade route during the time of the event.
• Respect the Longhorn Cattle and Wranglers:
  Dodging in front of longhorn cattle or Wranglers on horseback is strictly forbidden. Any attempts to cross in front of animals, impede parade participants, or agitate the animals poses a significant risk of injury to participants, animals and the public.
• Photographers and spectators should experience the parade from sidewalks and designated areas behind the safety barricades.

This policy is designed to protect the safety and well-being of everyone involved in the parade, including participants, animals, and attendees. The cooperation of photographers and the public is essential to ensuring a safe and enjoyable event.