FAQ
FAQs
Please click on the + icon to expand and see the answer.
What is the history of the Buckboard Days Parade?
Buckboard Days is a community celebration for the residents of Rowland Heights, nearby communities, and local schools. Parade Day begins at 7 AM with a pancake breakfast hosted by the Kiwanis Club at the Bell Memorial Church lot near the parade lineup. The parade starts on Nogales Street, continues along Colima Road, and ends at Rowland Heights Park on Banida Avenue. After the parade, everyone is invited to enjoy the Family Festival at the park, featuring food, fun, and entertainment for all ages.
How did the Buckboard Days Parade get started?
The Buckboard Days Parade began in 1971 as part of a three-day festival organized by the Rowland Heights Women’s Club. The event was created to raise funds for local charitable projects, including scholarships for students, a reading lab and books for the newly formed Rowland Unified School District, and efforts to establish a public library in Rowland Heights. Proceeds also supported community programs such as Meals on Wheels, holiday food baskets, park development, rabies clinics, and services for Special Education students and Special Olympics participants.
At the time, Rowland Heights was a quiet, somewhat isolated bedroom community. With the freeway newly completed, there was little to bring people together. The Buckboard Days Parade and Festival were launched to foster community pride and spirit—uniting residents of all ages (and even their pets!) in a celebration that has grown into a beloved annual tradition.
How did Buckboard Days get it's name?
According to local history, the very first Buckboard Days Parade was led by John A. Rowland IV, the great-grandson of the area’s original founder. Alongside his wife, he rode at the front of the parade in a horse-drawn buckboard, serving as the event’s very first Grand Marshal and setting the tone for this cherished community tradition.
Why is it called the Buckboard Days Parade, and what does it represent?
In the 1800s, when John Rowland first settled in this area, there were no cars or paved roads—just dirt paths traveled by horseback or wagon. Early wagons lacked springs or shock absorbers, making for a very bumpy ride. The buckboard was a type of wagon that introduced springs under the seat, offering a slightly more comfortable journey. However, the springs often caused the seat to “buck” like a horse when hitting bumps, giving the buckboard its name.
The Buckboard Days Parade honors this western heritage and the pioneering spirit that helped shape Rowland Heights. It’s a celebration of our roots, highlighting traditions like horse-drawn wagons, western dancing, and frontier life. While we proudly welcome and learn from the diverse cultures of our newer residents, the parade is a reminder of where our community began and why Rowland Heights remains a place people are proud to call home.
What can I expect during the Buckboard Days Parade and Festival?
Today, the Buckboard Days Parade is a fun-filled event that brings the entire Rowland Heights community together. Spectators line the streets to enjoy performances by marching bands, antique cars, floats, and children’s groups. After the parade, the celebration continues with the Buckboard Days Festival, where the results of the parade judging are announced, and trophies are awarded in various categories for outstanding entries.
Who participates in the Buckboard Days Parade?
The Buckboard Days Parade is a family-friendly event that’s especially fun for the children of Rowland Heights. Local high school, intermediate, and even elementary school bands march in the parade, alongside numerous community groups such as sports teams, little leagues, and school and church organizations. A fan favorite in past years has been the Rowland Heights Chinese Association Dragon Dance Team. The STC Foundation began entering floats around 2013, adding to the diversity of entries.
For the adults, the parade features antique cars, floats, and appearances by public and elected officials. Many adults also enjoy watching their children participate, with some even recalling their own experiences marching in past parades as kids. Each year, the parade includes about 60-70 entries, making it a lively and vibrant celebration for the whole community.
Who are the Grand Marshals of the Buckboard Days Parade?
Each year, the Buckboard Days Parade features a new Grand Marshal, and over the years, we’ve had a variety of TV and radio celebrities, VIPs, and politicians take on this honored role. Notable past Grand Marshals include Supervisor Don Knabe (1998), Sheriff Captain Alex Lim (2000), and Captain Lynn Jones of the CHP (2001). In 2006, the parade theme was “Our Western Heritage,” honoring the spirit of the Old West and the pioneers who helped establish our community. That year, the Grand Marshals were the entire Rowland family, including John A. Rowland V, VI, and VII, descendants of the original John Rowland who, along with William Workman, settled this area.
When is Buckboard Days held, and what is the schedule for the parade and festival?
Buckboard Days takes place annually on the third Saturday in October. The parade begins at 9:00 AM on Nogales Street, traveling north to Colima Road and then east. It turns north on Banida Street and finishes at Rowland Heights Park. The Family Festival starts around 11:00 AM at the park, featuring food, entertainment, and a variety of informational and craft booths. The festival typically runs until 2:00 or 3:00 PM, offering fun for all ages throughout the afternoon.
Is there a cost to participate in the Buckboard Days Parade?
There is no cost for community organizations, individuals, or sponsors to participate in the parade. However, non-sponsor business or commercial entries are required to pay a $50 entry fee, which must accompany their application for processing. While participation is free for most, organizing the parade does incur expenses.
How is the Buckboard Days Parade funded, and how can I donate or sponsor the event?
As a non-profit event, the Buckboard Days Parade is funded through sponsorships and donations. We need everyone’s help to make each year’s parade a success.
Who organizes the Buckboard Days Parade?
The Buckboard Days Parade is organized annually by the Buckboard Days Parade Committee, which also collaborates with LA County Parks and Recreation to assist with the Festival.
The committee is composed of dedicated volunteers from the community, including representatives from the PTA, the local school district, area businesses, and high school students who generously donate their time. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the parade operates without salaries—all efforts are made by volunteers.
What happens during the Buckboard Days Festival?
The festival kicks off right after the parade and takes place at Rowland Heights Park on Banida Avenue. During the event, trophies are awarded for various categories from the parade entries. The festival features approximately 50 booths offering a wide range of food, crafts, information, and live musical entertainment. It’s a fun-filled experience that everyone enjoys!
Can I volunteer to help with the Buckboard Days Parade?
Absolutely! We are always in need of volunteers to help ensure the parade and festival run smoothly. If you’d like to get involved, please click on the following link.