April 26, 2025 – Even with a nipping breeze whispering through Old Town Clovis, the spirit of the Rodeo season burned bright as hundreds gathered for this year’s Rodeo Parade.
Bundled in layers but buzzing with anticipation, hundreds lined the sidewalks to view the parade.
Roads were blocked off, parking was scarce, and a cold chill flew through the streets – but that wasn’t about to stop anyone from enjoying the morning parade.
“I just kind of remember coming out here when my kids were small, some of the nostalgia of it,” recalled Clovis PD Officer Chris Hutchison.
Hutchison threw a ball back and forth with some kids in the street, all who were eagerly awaiting the parade to begin.
Giggles echoed down the street as children chased iridescent bubbles that danced in the cool air, while others waved toy swords to pass the time before the spectacle began.
Down the street, the hum of motorcycles was distantly observed. The crowd was brought to silence as announcer James Obermire narrated the start of the parade, beginning with Clovis PD motorcyclists.
They were followed by patriotic Rodeo cowgirls holding up the nation’s flag, Grand Marshal Louie Sarantos, and an energetic horseman firing blanks into the air and hitting the ground with his whip.
Each snap on the ground startled the children present, bringing their attention to the parade’s entrants.
Though it was early morning, attendees also began to think about their lunch plans as Me-N-Eds Pizzeria, Bobby Salazar’s, and Raisin’ Cane’s Chicken Fingers made their way down Clovis Avenue.
“It’s Bobby-licious!” Obermire shouted as Bobby Salazar’s black sports car stunned viewers with flames painted down the sides of the vehicle.
It wasn’t long, however, before their attention for the delicious restaurant was turned towards the incoming marching bands sprinkled throughout the morning’s floats.
Blue flags of several shades displayed the spirit of Clovis Unified from several schools, including Clovis High, Buchanan, and Clovis West. Rifles were tossed with precision from color guard members as well, audience members wide-eyed with interest.
Once they departed, however, the crowd continued to stay engaged. A favorite of theirs were pups from the Fresno County Search & Rescue Team, donning bright orange bows to match the uniforms of their handlers.
The many dogs eagerly greeted parade attendees, often making a beeline for children and pet lovers.
For the car show enthusiasts, there were plenty of sights to enjoy. From Mustangs to Chevys to Jeeps, the gaze of attendees became fixed upon classic cars that gleamed in contrast to the gloomy sky.
That gloomy sky soon brought down small rain droplets, adding a drizzle to the morning. Despite this, however, no attendees nor parade participants were fazed, continuing to enjoy the parade.
Obermire gladly narrated the groups of cars, explaining various details about the groups and their history.
He welcomed the San Joaquin Valley Shriners, sharing, “[they] first grouped together in 1872 and currently have 22 hospitals for children in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.”
Obermire’s characteristic narration added a unique touch to the parade floats, offering attendees information they wouldn’t have otherwise known.
A Clovis High School alumnus, he was also eager to see the CHS parade floats that ventured down the street, particularly the football team dressed in their iconic blue and gold uniforms.
Uniforms or no, many of the other parade entrants sparkled as well, adding extra vibrancy to the parade with colorful decorations and bright smiles.
Even with a touch of early spring chill and a sprinkle from above, the enthusiasm radiating from the Clovis Rodeo Parade remained undeterred.
It was a vibrant testament to the community’s deep-seated love for this annual tradition, a reminder that neither the elements nor the passage of time can dampen the spirited heart of Clovis.
Though this year’s Rodeo Parade has come to an end, you still have a few more days to enjoy the Rodeo festivities, and it’s sure to return next year as well. Happy Rodeo week!