The National Western Stock Show Parade kicks off the 120th year of the event

After weeks of spring-like weather, clouds and snow flurries returned to Denver Thursday morning — just in time for Stock Show season.

The changing weather set the stage for the annual National Western Stock Show Parade, kicking off the event’s 120th year. Riders in cowboy hats, chaps, and boots guided horses and longhorns through downtown Denver along 17th Street, drawing thousands of spectators despite the cold.

Hours before the parade stepped off, participants gathered near Coors Field to feed, groom, and saddle their animals as car horns and railroad bells echoed through the area. Volunteers of the parade said the crowds and noise are nothing new for the animals.

By noon, 17th Street was lined up shoulder to shoulder with onlookers bundled in winter coats, many stopping to watch near Union Station, where cheers rose as riders and longhorns passed by.

Because of icy conditions this year, bulls were not included in the parade for safety reasons.

The 16-day National Western Stock Show officially begins Saturday morning with opening ceremonies. Tickets and event schedules are available online at nationalwestern dot com.