MONTE VISTA — The Stampede Parade Committee announced the theme for this year’s parades will be “Families, Farms, & Friends.”   

This year marks the 96th anniversary of the Ski Hi Stampede. This historic event includes two days of parades which will take place in downtown Monte Vista on Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29. It is not too early to start planning for entries in the parades.

There is no fee charged to participate, but participants are asked to complete an entry form which is available at the Colorado Potato Administration Office near Safeway, or online at www.skihistampede.com. These parades are made possible each year by the continued financial support of the community. The donations received cover the expenses of the parades which include prizes, ribbons, and the services of pooper-scoopers, banner carriers, and bands.

Plan to join the fun, decorate a float, ride a horse or a bike, or be in the crowds that cheer from the sidewalks. This year’s theme promises to make for two great days of parades that celebrate this San Luis Valley tradition.