Tucson Rodeo Parade – 2021 – The Year That Wasn’t
This was the first year of the Tucson Rodeo that did not happen. So I was surprised to learn that Desert Diamond was sponsoring a Rodeo Parade for March. We were excited to get out of the house and DO something, anything. So, on Saturday morning we headed off early to what I call the “Backwards Rodeo Parade”. That is where the wagons are on the sidelines and the crowd drives by. Sounded like it might be interesting. Besides, there was the allure of prizes. All for the benefit of Casa de Los Ninos.
We left at 9:30 and were there at the rodeo grounds along with everyone else at 9:55. As we approached the parade, we entertained ourselves with banter with our pod friends in the back seat. I was amazed at how many cars had only adults in them, but we were early and it was Saturday.
Most of the wagons were decorated but empty. There were a couple of bands. I don’t think that the Radio Station was there yet. the Tucson Boys Chorus was doing rope tricks while their music played in the background. Visit the Rodeo Museum to see most of these wagons. Rent a hearse or a buggy for a special occasion.
We received a bag of goodies and a number for a chance to win one of the many prizes. The best goodie we received was a wonderful “Coffee Table” book, Wild Ride: The History and Lore of Rodeo by Joel Bernstein. More on that after I read it. If you went to the parade, check to see if you won a prize here.
Here are a few photos we took of the wagons and festivities along the route.