The 81st Annual Pikes Peak or Bust Parade Celebrates ‘Bronco Days’

COLORADO SPRINGS — The 81st annual Pikes Peak or Bust Parade celebrates this year with “Bronco Days.”

Tejon Street in the heart of Colorado Springs takes a step back in time as the modern street is transformed into the Wild West.

On July 6th at 10am there will be a huge parade from St. Vrain Street to Vermijo Avenue

This year’s theme, “Bronco Days,” was created to honor the unbreakable, rugged spirit that embodies the heart of the West. Attendees are invited to bring their best cowboy, cowgirl, and pioneer attire: cowboy hats, plaid shirts, boots, and plenty of denim bring out those western attire pieces.

The first Pikes Peak or Bust Parade began in the 1930s during the height of the Great Depression and served as a celebration of resilience during the infamous economic crisis. Over time, the parade continued and began to evolve into a festival celebrating Colorado Springs and the western region surrounding it. The parade features incredible displays of horsemanship, rodeo riders showing off their skills, and camaraderie with the community of Colorado Springs and the areas surrounding it. This parade draws people from near and far.

A precursor to the big event is the Lil’ Cowpokes Stick Horse Races, which showcase the future of the Western spirit. The cheerful and energetic children compete against each other to see who is the champion of the Stick Horse races.

The event starts at 9am and there are three divisions for kids to race in:

• 3 to 4 year olds
• 5 to 6 year olds
• 7 to 8 year olds

Parents and/or guardians must accompany the participant during check-in and during the race.
Children must wear jeans, plaid shirts, cowboy hats, boots, and bandanas. They must also remain mounted for the entire race.

The first prize winners in the different age categories boys and girls receive official ribbons for their achievements. All other participants receive special souvenirs of the event.

After the children’s races, the big parade begins, where the public can admire some of the coolest western-themed floats.

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Food crops damaged by oil spill in irrigation ditch near Pueblo

News5 viewer Vince Hanson has been a homeowner in Pueblo County for nearly nine years. Hanson contacted News5 after he noticed floodwaters and oil in the drainage ditch outside his home. Hanson said he contacted multiple state agencies for assistance.

Crops damaged by oil spill in irrigation ditch near Pueblo

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