The first horse parade made its way down Main Street Salinas in 1911. It was led by James R. Hebbron and consisted of a sixteen piece band and about 100 horses ridden by local ranchers. In 1938 the parade showcased a record 1,000 horses! Today, the parade consists of mounted Sheriff’s Posse, competitors, various riding groups, color guards, drill teams, Junior & Senior riders and Charro and Charra riding groups. The horse parade is a tradition that you definitely want to experience. Entries are taken each year for participants from near and far.
The parade will travel to the Rodeo Grounds on Thursday and Friday from East Alisal Street. The Saturday and Sunday traditional horse parades still travel from Salinas City Center (formerly Old Town Salinas) to the Rodeo Grounds.