Helldorado Days Parade rolls through downtown Las Vegas on Saturday
Dancers in traditional Mexican costumes perform during the Helldorado parade Saturday, May 11, 2019. Photo by: Sam Morris/Las Vegas News Bureau
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 1:10 p.m.
The Helldorado Days Parade returns Saturday to downtown Las Vegas to celebrate the community’s past and future.
Starting at 10 a.m., the procession will travel north along Fourth Street from Gass Avenue to Stewart Avenue, showcasing the diversity and heritage of the Las Vegas Valley.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to line the parade route or claim a seat in the grandstand, at Fourth and Bridger Avenue, which holds approximately 100 people.
This year’s parade features 142 entries, including 10 school marching bands, Zelzah Shriner flivver cars, hundreds of costumed dancers, equestrian groups, car and motorcycle clubs, school and business floats, and the city’s Big Red fire truck.
“The Helldorado Days Parade is a citywide event,” Mayor Shelley Berkley said. “From the marching bands to the beautiful horses and dancers, this parade celebrates our heritage and diversity. Everyone is invited to participate and celebrate our past and future.”
A judging committee will evaluate entries and award prizes in multiple categories. Top honors include $500 for best marching band and $500 for the best historic Las Vegas-themed float. Other award categories include Best School Float, Best Overall Entry, Most Creative, Best Theme, Best Equestrian, Best Car Club, Best Motorized Vehicle Group/Entry, Best Dancing Group, Best Walking Group and Best Casino Entry.
Food trucks behind the grandstand will sell refreshments, and Helldorado swag will be given away to parade attendees. Temperatures are expected to approach 100 degrees Saturday; organizers advise attendees to bring water, along with hats and umbrellas for shade and sunscreen. The parade will not be televised live.
Parking is available at several nearby locations. Event parking in the City Parkway, City Hall and City Center parking garages costs $6 for the day.
The Helldorado celebration dates to 1935, when it was launched as a fundraiser by the Las Vegas Elks lodge. The event was suspended in 1997 and revived in 2005 as part of the city’s centennial celebration.
The parade takes place as the city approaches a milestone: May 15 marks the 121st anniversary of the 1905 land auction that is considered the founding of Las Vegas.
For more information on the parade, call 702-229-4859.