Sure, we celebrate all the usual holidays here in the southwest. But we also have some pretty special festivals and events, too. Some are the product of our culture. Others are a product of our location. All of them, in our humble opinion, make life in the southwest pretty special. Take a look at our roundup and see for yourself.
Sundance Film Festival, Park City, Utah, every January/February
You might argue that an independent film festival isn’t necessarily unique to the southwest. When it’s set against the glittering winter mountains of Park City, though, we beg to differ.
Sundance, of course, is as much about movies as it is about the A-list movie stars who descend upon Park City for the festival. The city comes alive during the winter nights for film screenings, parties, and for people who want to see and be seen. If you want to take it in yourself, it’s all just a stone’s throw from our Park City terminal. Scrub yourself up after a haul, and head downtown.
Cesar Chavez Day, March 31
Yes, this was officially declared a federal holiday in 2014, but for many in the southwest, this day holds special meaning. Born in Yuma, Arizona, the renowned civil rights activist helped secure basic rights for farm workers in the southwest, and all of the US as well. Celebrations vary across the southwest – many Arizona schools close in observance, while Reno, Nevada holds a festival – but Cesar Chavez Day is an important day for many southwestern families.
Prescott Frontier Days, Prescott, Arizona, first week of July
If you want to see some original horsepower in action, Prescott Frontier Days are for you. Dubbed “the world’s oldest rodeo”, Prescott Frontier Days has taken place, under various names, since 1888. It’s a classic rodeo in every possible way, complete with a grand entry to kick off each event, barrel racing, tie-down roping, bareback riding and more. And of course, the Prescott Rodeo Grounds are filled with good food and great vendors so you can take in the entire rodeo experience. Best of all, it’s less than two hours from our Phoenix terminal.
Pioneer Day, Utah, July 24
What began as a day to commemorate the Mormons’ arrival in the Utah valley in 1947, has evolved into a holiday whose celebrations are nearly on par with the 4th of July. Cities and towns celebrate with parades and reenactments of the arrival, often with people dressed in traditional pioneer garb. Most businesses close, and many choose to celebrate the day in their own way (for many, it’s a great excuse for a cookout). You’ll even find spinoff celebrations, such as “Pie and Beer Day”, so there’s truly something for everyone. If you’re new to the southwest, be sure to join in on the fun.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, every October
The more temperate fall days of Albuquerque make the city the perfect spot for ballooning. Those colorful windblown aircraft need just the right conditions to travel serenely across the sky. Cold fall air from the Sandia mountains blows down into the Rio Grande valley, creating just the right amount of lift and wind currents to make ballooning successful-and to make this a truly special southwest event.
It’s also made the International Balloon Fiesta incredibly successful: now over 50 years old, more than 500 balloons are launched over the course of the nine-day event. You can join the fun at Balloon Fiesta Park on the outskirts of the city, or just park and watch the balloons drift by in the glow in of an Albuquerque fall morning.
Las Posadas, December 16 to 24
Christmas in the southwest takes on a distinctly unique flavor. With many citizens of Latin-American descent, Southwestern towns often celebrate Las Posadas.
Meant to reenact the story of Mary and Joseph, children dress as angels and journey through town, knocking on doors and seeking shelter. Traditionally, they are turned away, but are usually offered snacks and refreshments all the same. Finally, a home grants them shelter, and a celebration full of food ensues. The highlight of the party? The pinata, of course, right after mass.
Even for families that don’t celebrate Las Posadas, Christmas décor in the southwest takes on a style like nowhere else in the country. Decorations often include:
Southwestern culture has helped create some truly unique traditions and events. Come drive for Truline, and you’ll see for yourself why. Check out our current opportunities, and start your journey with us today.
