The Helldorado Days Parade, an annual event celebrating Las Vegas and its history, is accepting applications from the community to participate in the 2026 parade, scheduled for Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to noon. The application deadline is April 17, 2026, and application may be made online here. There is no fee to enter the parade, which will take place on Fourth Street downtown between Gass and Stewart avenues.
The Commission for the Las Vegas Centennial is offering $1,000 for local school marching band entries and $1,500 for quality local school float entries, limit of two parade entries per school. The Commission also offers $1,000 to local artists whose entry is reflective of Las Vegas life and history. There is space for more than 100 entries. A committee will judge the entries during the parade and prizes will be awarded, including $500 for the best marching band and $500 for the best historic Las Vegas-themed float.
Parade entries are expected to represent the diversity of the city, its founding in 1905 as a railroad town, where we come from, how we have grown and where we are going. Cultural and historical groups and organizations, schools, artists, car/motorcycle clubs, and service organizations are encouraged to participate.
“The Helldorado Days Parade is a citywide event,” Mayor Shelley Berkley said. “From the marching bands to the beautiful horses and dancers, this parade celebrates our heritage and diversity. Everyone is invited to participate and celebrate our past and future.”
May 15, 2026, is the 121st anniversary of the land auction in 1905, which marks the beginning of Las Vegas. This parade was created in 1935. For more information on the Helldorado Days Parade, call 702.229.4859.