Scottsdale’s Parada del Sol to honor McCain
Parada del Sol and the Trails End Festival will celebrate the legacy of Sen. John McCain during its “Arizona’s Heroes” themed festivities on Saturday, Feb. 9.
The late statesman will be the annual parade’s honorary Grand Marshal in Memoriam. Cindy McCain will represent her husband by taking part in the parade through Old Town Scottsdale.
“We’re deeply honored that Mrs. McCain agreed to the proposition to represent Senator McCain in the parade,” Parada president Wendy Springborn said.
This marks the 66th year of Parada del Sol. Its “Arizona’s Heroes” theme honors McCain’s service to Arizona as well as all of those who give back to their communities. Organizers hope to encourage young leaders to become “mavericks” by taking a pledge “to work in service of a cause greater than themselves.” The initiative is led by the McCain Institute.
Springborn said she hoped the theme would help emphasize “individuals who go above and beyond” and that heroes can come in all shapes and sizes.
In that spirit, the parade will honor two other local men as co-marshals — Aric Manore, Scottsdale’s police officer of the year, and Ned Greenleaf, firefighter of the year.
Other honorees are Steve Strickbine, the Scottsdale entrepreneur of the year who launched several newspapers in the area; Kyle Bragg, Anasazi Elementary School PE teacher of the year; and Brian Biesemeyer, executive director of Scottsdale Water, who received a national award for sustainable water utility management.
When is Parada del Sol?
It all takes place on Saturday, Feb. 9. Entertainment begins at 9 a.m. and the parade starts at 10 a.m.
It lasts until noon, when the Trail’s End Festival begins. The Trail’s End Festival ends at 4 p.m.
How much does it cost?
The parade and festival are free.
What is the parade route?
Parada del Sol starts at Drinkwater Boulevard and heads south down Scottsdale Road. It turns right on First Street, left on Marshall Way, east on Second Street and then ends by heading north on Brown Avenue to Indian School Road.
What roads will be closed?
These areas will be closed from 4 a.m. to noon Saturday to accommodate the parade:
❚ Indian School Road from Drinkwater Boulevard to Marshall Way.
❚ Scottsdale Road from Goldwater Boulevard to Camelback Road.
❚ Drinkwater Boulevard from Indian School to Scottsdale roads.
❚ Brown Avenue from Second Street to Indian School Road.
❚ Streets north of Third Avenue between Scottsdale Road and Drinkwater Boulevard.
❚ Marshall Way from Main to Second street.
These roads will be closed from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday for the Trail’s End Festival:
❚ Scottsdale Road from Goldwater Boulevard to Indian School Road.
❚ Brown Avenue from Second Street to Indian School Road.
Where do I park?
Public parking is available near the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and the Civic Center Library. Parada del Sol’s website has an interactive map listing all the public parking in the area.
Who is performing at Trails End?
TOMBSTONE MAIN STAGE
❚ Noon-2:15 p.m.: The Raun Alosi Band.
❚ 2:45-4 p.m.: Rock Lobster. SILVERADO MAIN STAGE
❚ Noon-12:20 p.m.: The Brothers.
❚ 12:20-12:30 p.m.: Mayor’s presentation of Stars of Scottsdale.
❚ 12:30-2 p.m.: The Herndon Brothers.
❚ 2:30-4 p.m.: Mogollon.
FIESTA STAGE
❚ Noon-12:40 p.m.:
Ollin.
❚ 12:45-1:25
Dance Co.
❚ 1:30-2:25 p.m.: Mariachi Pasion.
❚ 2:30-3:10 p.m.: Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli.
❚ 3:15-4 p.m.:
Tierra AZ. p.m.: Ballet Folklorico Fiesta Mariachi Juvenil de Mi
What other activities are available?
Herndon Mexicana
❚ The Tailgate area presents Superhero BMX and trick demos.
❚ The Kids Corral will have a petting zoo, bounce houses and pony rides.