This parade was first staged in 1949 as the “Shasta County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo Parade.”  The parade organization and operation were turned over to the Asphalt Cowboys in 1958 so that the Sheriff’s Posse could concentrate on the rodeo and refurbishing the rodeo grounds.  The parade began life with almost 200 entries.  Over the years the parade has grown to as high as 250 entries, coming from all over the north state. The original parade had 32 categories.  Today’s entrants compete in 52 different classes with prize and trophy awards.  Rodeo parades, a regular feature of western rodeos, showcased many of the professional cowboys that would ride in the rodeo plus the typical mix of marching bands, floats, and majorettes.  The first Redding Rodeo Parade upheld these traditions, including having a western rodeo, movie, or other star as the parade Grand Marshal.  Today the parade tradition continues.  Many entrants are made up of mostly non-professional local riders and the Grand Marshall is an honor conferred on a local citizen or citizens.  Be part of the history and tradition of Redding, we will make room for you!