Longhorns, Westernaires, cowboys and cowgirls: The National Western Stock Show parade returns

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Denver welcomed the National Western Stock Show Parade back to the city Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024. As is the tradition, a herd of Longhorns took the lead up 17th Street from Union Station to Glenarm Street, and then back down to McGregor Square.

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Members of the Westernaires equestrian precision drill team line up on 17th Avenue during the 2024 National Western Stock Show Parade.
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A rider on horseback acknowledges cheers from the crowd lined up along 17th Avenue for the National Western Stock Show Parade on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024.
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Traditional Mexican dancers performed for the crowd on 17th Avenue during the National Western Stock Show Parade Thursday, Jan. 4 2023.
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An estimated 700,000 people visit the Stock Show each year in Denver. The event officially dates back to 1906, but there were earlier cattle shows and auctions as far back as 1874. This year’s show runs through Jan. 21.
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Former Denver Broncos All-Pro Middle Linebacker, Randy Gradishar, was the official Grand Marshal of this year’s National Western Stock Show Parade.
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Cowboys and cowgirls move a herd of Longhorns up Denver’s 17th Avenue from Union Station to Glenarm Street on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024.
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Some kids on 17th Avenue in Denver get framed by a passing team of horses on 17th Avenue during the National Western Stock Show Parade.
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Some supporters of Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, center, gather around him for a photo during the National Western Stock Show Parade on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024.
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A couple of youngsters on horseback wave to the crowd during the 2024 National Western Stock Show Parade.
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Yes, even the pups get into the act.