Inhale the heady scent of leather saddles as cheers ripple down bustling streets and hooves echo off downtown towers.
This is Helldorado Days—a nearly century-old celebration of frontier spirit and living history that shines through a spring parade downtown and a family-friendly fall rodeo & festival at CORE Arena. Both are free, open to all, and help preserve Las Vegas’s rich legacy.
- Spring: Helldorado Days Parade — music, floats, marching bands, community spirit.
- Date & time: Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon
- Location: Downtown Las Vegas on Fourth Street between Gass and Stewart avenues.
- Cost: The Spring Heldorado Parade is free to attend.
- Fall: Helldorado Days Rodeo & Festival — evening rodeo + carnival rides, games, family fun at CORE Arena.
- Dates: Friday–Saturday, Nov 7–8, 2025
- Location: CORE Arena, Plaza Hotel & Casino (Downtown Las Vegas)
- Festival: 4:00 p.m. daily
- Rodeo: 6:00 p.m. daily
- Cost: Ticket prices vary – check ticket options and prices
Need to book a room? See all mandatory hotel fees in Las Vegas.
Learn more about Helldorado Days Las Vegas — Parade & Rodeo Traditions Celebrating Nevada Heritage
Launched in 1935, Helldorado Days began as a citywide salute to Nevada’s Western roots and the people who shaped Las Vegas—from the early railroad era to the Hoover Dam workforce that fueled 1930s growth. Over time, parades, rodeos, and community festivities defined a uniquely Las Vegas tradition that continues today.
Even Hollywood took notice: in 1946, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans starred in a feature film set during the Helldorado celebrations, cementing the event’s place in pop-culture lore.
By being there, you’re enjoying the event and also helping preserve a cultural heritage that may be slowly disappearing, serving as a steward of Vegas’ heritage.
Helldorado Days Parade (Spring/May)
The parade brings marching bands, equestrian groups, classic cars, and creative floats to Downtown Las Vegas, typically stepping off at 10:00 AM and proceeding along Fourth Street between Gass and Stewart Avenues. You can expect a two-hour showcase of local schools, cultural groups, nonprofits, and community organizations!
What You’ll See
- Equestrian & Animal Acts: Cowboys, cowgirls, and precision teams.
- Music & Dance: High-school marching bands, dance troupes, and cultural ensembles.
- Vintage Wheels: Classic and custom vehicles from car & motorcycle clubs.
- Community Spirit: Floats from schools, casinos, and local organizations.
- Live Entertainment: Commentary and category judging by local personalities.
Route, Map & Logistics
- Route: Fourth St. between Gass & Stewart (Downtown)
- Grandstands: Shaded seating typically near Bridger Ave (arrive early)
- Parking: Use public garages/lots; expect morning street closures along/near the route
- Access Points: Recommended ride-share drop-offs near Gass Ave; ADA viewing zones available along the route
Prefer a printable version? Download the official Helldorado Days parade map (PDF).
Awards & Participation
Entry is typically free. Entries often compete for awards like Best Overall, Most Creative, Best Float, Best Marching Band, Best Equestrian, and more.
Applications usually open in the fall/winter for the following spring.
For official dates, entry forms, and route confirmations, visit the City of Las Vegas parade page.
Helldorado Days Rodeo & Festival (Fall / November)
Each fall, the Helldorado tradition continues at CORE Arena beside the Plaza Hotel & Casino with an evening rodeo and a family-friendly festival.
Expect carnival rides and games, a petting zoo, line dancing, and a mechanical bull ahead of the rodeo performances. Afterward, downtown’s nightlife is just steps away on Fremont Street.
- Venue: CORE Arena (Downtown Las Vegas, next to the Plaza)
- Gates: Typically open late afternoon; festival precedes the rodeo each night
- Tickets: General-admission pricing varies by year; purchase via official Plaza channels
For current dates, pricing, and nightly schedules, see the official Helldorado Days Rodeo page.
Five Pro Tips for a Great Day
- Arrive early: 60–90 minutes before parade step-off; rodeo festival gates open mid- to late afternoon.
- Dress for the season: May can be warm and sunny; November nights can be cool—layer accordingly.
- Hydrate & snack smart: Bring water and light snacks for the parade; enjoy vendors at the rodeo festival.
- Study the maps: Review closures, parking, and access points before you go.
- Share your style: Post with
#HelldoradoDaysand tag @Vegas4Locals. Join our photo challenge: Show us your best cowboy boots!
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a family outing can be hectic—here are quick answers to the most common questions.
Q: When are Helldorado Days held?
A: The parade is held in May (typically mid-May, morning step-off). The rodeo & festival are in November (evening events).
Exact dates are announced annually by the City of Las Vegas (parade) and the Plaza/CORE Arena (rodeo).
Q: Where is the parade route?
A: Along Fourth Street between Gass and Stewart Avenues in Downtown Las Vegas.
Q: Is the parade free to attend or participate in?
A: Yes—attendance and entry are typically free. See the City’s page for application windows and requirements.
Q: Where is the rodeo & festival held?
A: At CORE Arena next to the Plaza Hotel & Casino in Downtown Las Vegas. Festival activities precede the rodeo nightly.
Helldorado Days remains a living bridge between Las Vegas’s past and present—a chance to cheer, compete, and celebrate the city we call home.
Editor’s note: This evergreen directory entry combines the spring parade and fall rodeo to help readers plan year-round.
