What To Know
- At the forefront of the parade is our Post 44 Color Guard made up of individuals who have served in most every branch of the military.
- As veterans share their stories and community members interact with those who have served, it was the perfect opportunity for everyone to acknowledge the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.
- Whether marching with the Color Guard, volunteering / participating in the Post 44 festivities, or simply standing in the crowd, the day served as a powerful reminder of the importance of service, the pride of the American spirit, and the value of Post 44 to our community.
Thomas P Smith, Post 44 Historian
The Parada del Sol historic parade has been a Scottsdale, AZ tradition since 1953. As in previous years, on Saturday February 1st the streets of Old Town Scottsdale welcomed over 30,000 spectators and nearly 150 parade entries who marched down Scottsdale Road and along our Second Street frontage. After the Parade, the streets of Old Town Scottsdale immediately transition into “The Trail’s End Festival.” It’s a huge block party for all ages featuring a variety of live concerts, food, and fun. As the Parada’s longest running participant, American Legion Post 44 did not disappoint participating in the day’s festivities!
Post 44 Color Guard: At the forefront of the parade is our Post 44 Color Guard made up of individuals who have served in most every branch of the military. Their presence serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for the freedoms enjoyed by all. Our Color Guard participants are equally rewarded with a standing ovation throughout the 2 ½ mile parade route.
Marching Bands and Performances: Local marching bands take to the streets, filling the air with the sound of patriotic music. These talented old and young musicians provided an uplifting backdrop to the event playing everything from “The Star-Spangled Banner” to “God Bless America.” Dance teams, drill teams, and other performers also joined in adding to this festive atmosphere.
Community Participation: The parade was a showcase for local pride, with participants ranging from youth groups to native American assemblies to civic organizations. Local businesses sponsored floats or provided decorations, creating a colorful procession that reflected the spirit of unity in the town. This parade is more than just a celebration; it’s a reaffirmation of our past and the strong bonds within our community.
After the Parade: The festivities continued with an after-party at American Legion Post 44 where veterans, families, and residents came together to relax, celebrate, and enjoy each other’s company. Post 44 transformed into a hub of celebration, complete with food, drinks, music, and entertainment.
Food and Drink: The after-party typically featured a variety of food options (to include early bird breakfast burritos and coffee) with a focus on classic American cuisine. This was led by our new Post 44 food service provider (@thesecretkitchen) who prepared delicious meals such as barbecue pork sandwiches, hot dogs, and hamburgers. The event offered something for everyone and most importantly accompanied by beverages that included well drinks, craft beers, soft drinks, and other refreshments.
Live Music and Entertainment: The Post 44 after-parade celebration also featured live music from two bands (Signature Blend and Band 44) who played a mix of classic rock, country, and patriotic tunes. It was the type of entertainment that brings people together to dance and/or simply allows individuals to relax, enjoy and reflect on the day’s meaning. As veterans share their stories and community members interact with those who have served, it was the perfect opportunity for everyone to acknowledge the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.
Until Next Year: The Parada Del Sol Parade and our subsequent after-celebration party are not just events… they’ve become valuable memories and overtime – the soul of Scottsdale! The parade brings together backgrounds, and experiences, creating a community that respects those who have served and sacrificed for this nation. Whether marching with the Color Guard, volunteering / participating in the Post 44 festivities, or simply standing in the crowd, the day served as a powerful reminder of the importance of service, the pride of the American spirit, and the value of Post 44 to our community. Most importantly for our Post 44 family, it was a day to reconnect with old friends.
We are so fortunate to be members of Post 44! Why? It’s the “best damn Post in the west!”