Riding into Tradition: Denver Kicks Off 2025 National Western Stock Show
DENVER, CO – The streets of downtown Denver echoed with the sound of hooves Thursday as the 2025 National Western Stock Show parade heralded the start of a beloved Colorado tradition. The event, which has been taking place since 1906, will run for 16 days at the National Western Stock Show grounds from January 6 through January 26.
Despite the snow and icy conditions that posed challenges to parade goers, the spirit of the event remained undeterred. The 40-minute parade, which commenced shortly after 1 p.m. following an hour-long weather delay, featured horse-drawn wagons, Western riding groups, and the presence of over a thousand spectators who braved the chill to witness the festivities. This year’s parade, which wound from Union Station along 17th Street, notably omitted the iconic Longhorn cattle drive— a precaution against the slippery streets that could pose risks to the animals.
Leading the parade as the Grand Marshal was Kathy Sabine, a passionate equestrian and 9NEWS chief meteorologist. Participants and onlookers alike expressed their enthusiasm for the event, with many underscoring the significance of preserving Colorado’s agricultural heritage.
Commemorating family traditions, attendees like Jill Miller brought their children to witness the parade, underscoring its importance in passing down cultural values. Longtime parade-goer Mary Rose-Masters praised the event’s role in highlighting Colorado’s rich history, particularly noting the Mexican Rodeo as a personal favorite.
As snowflakes fell, the community came together to celebrate a tradition that continues to bridge generations, firmly rooting it in Colorado’s cultural landscape. This year’s Stock Show kicked off the New Year with a warm embrace of heritage, appreciation, and pride. Stay tuned for further updates as the Stock Show progresses.