Arizona state historian Marshall Trimble is joining this year's edition of the Scottsdale Parada del Sol, serving as grand marshal for the annual Western-themed parade and rodeo.
The festivities kick off Friday, February 10, with the end of the Hashknife Pony Express Ride, in which horseback riders carry 20,000 pieces of mail 200 miles from Holbrook to Scottsdale. Scottsdale's Museum of the West hosts the riders' arrival.
Saturday, February 11, is the Scottsdale Parada del Sol Parade, which features bands, marching groups, Western groups, commercial floats, horse riders and groups, Western vehicles and other participants. It begins at 10 a.m. in Old Town Scottsdale.
Following the parade is the Trail's End Festival, also in Old Town, until 5 p.m. Western, Hispanic and Native American cultural entertainment areas will be on hand, along with activities for children. More than 20,000 visitors are expected for the parade and festival, organizers say.
The festivities conclude March 9-12 with the Scottsdale Parada del Sol Rodeo at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
For more information on all of the events, visit www.paradadelsol.net.