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The San Benito County Saddle Horse Show Parade trotted through downtown Hollister on June 20, drawing an appreciative crowd.
Rebecca Wolf, a member of the parade’s board of directors, said the parade has been part of the community since 1934 and this year it also celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary.
Consisting of 116 equestrian riders, along with floats, bands and other participants, the parade served as the kick-off to the rodeo, which will be held June 26–28.
“We’ve been around for a long time,” Wolf said. “It’s great family time for everyone, and I think it’s very important for communities to get together and enjoy what we have.”
Merced County Sheriff’s Deputy Michael Mendes, who led a contingent in this year’s parade, said he and his deputies participate in 20 to 27 parades each year, traveling throughout California and as far away as Reno.
Mendes said he uses different horses for parades like this one: Vita, Kalua, and Jason, the one he rode for this event. On July 2, he travels to Washington, D.C., for the July 4 parade.
“I love the crowds and the kids,” he said. “What kid doesn’t want to be a cowboy or cowgirl? I like seeing them smile, waving at them and making them feel special.”
Hollister resident Tiffany Williams, who has been a competitive horseback rider, said she has attended the parade since she was seven years old. She used to take part in it as well.
“I used to ride my horse and also do drill teams,” Williams said. “I love the camaraderie, the spirit. I think it’s important to bring the community together in positive support for the county,” And I think it’s really wonderful for the children to come down and see the history.”
Longhorn cattle hoof it during the parade.
Photo by Adam Bell.
VFW Color Guard.
Photo by Adam Bell.
Watsonville Community Band.
Photo by Adam Bell.
Quadrille Queen.
Photo by Adam Bell.
Quadrille Queens show off their patriotic colors. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Tri-City Band Corps Cadet Regiment. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Spreckels VFW. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Juanita Ellington. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Michael Mendes from the Merced County Sheriff’s Posse. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Hollister Fire Department’s vintage engine. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Hollister Vikings cheer squad. Photo by Adam Bell. 
E Clampus Vitus Monterey Viejo 1846. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Gary Beck as a frontiersman. Photo by Adam Bell.
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