2025 THEME: Once Upon a Rodeo
2025 GRAND MARSHAL: Jaizel Mendoza
Read her bio below.
Thousands of people line the streets of the Salinas City Center to watch over 1,200 children ride on floats, bikes, in wagons and more as a kick off to Big Week and the California Rodeo Salinas.
The parade ends at approximately 3:45 pm (duration is based on the number of kids that participate).
DIVISION & JUDGING INFO
The children in the parade are grouped into 8 divisions for judging. The divisions are Playground Floats, Cowboys and Cowgirls, Strollers & Wagons, Community Groups, Costumed Kids & Pets, Dance & Drill Teams, Group Floats and Rolling Riders (skates, rollerblades, scooters, skateboards, bikes and trikes-helmets required). Everyone is encouraged to wear western clothing.
Judging for Kiddie Kapers Parade is done by Parade volunteers and there is a first - third place awarded in each category. At the Parade’s announcing stand, the division winners are recognized. The 1st place winner in each Division receives a cash prize. There are two 1st place winners in the Cowboys & Cowgirls Division, one boy and one girl. These two winners get to ride at the front of the Parade in special cars. All other division winners walk at the front of their division behind a huge banner. 1st place winners in each division receive a handsome award ribbon. Each entrant gets a commemorative ribbon, a crisp $1 bill and coupons from local merchants.
Questions?
Please call the Rodeo office at 831-775-3100 for information. There are also answers to some frequently asked questions to the right.
Grand Marshal - Jaizel Mendoza
Jaizel Mendoza - pediatric cancer survivor
6-year-old Jaizel Mendoza of Salinas was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in April 2022 and is currently living with an inoperable chest tumor. Jaizel loves all animals, especially horses, has a big personality, and enjoys spending time with her cousins.
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