Pioneer Day is Paso Robles greatest celebration complete with a parade, bean feed and party in the iconic downtown city park. Saturday, October 13 marks the 88^th anniversary of the community event originally organized in 1931 as a way to say thank you to all the citizens of Paso Robles. The slogan, “Leave your pocketbooks at home, come celebrate in friendship”, still holds true.

The annual event commemorates authentic Paso Robles and its pioneers. The festive parade that encompasses downtown showcases antique tractors, horse-drawn wagons, marching bands, floats, dancing horses and more. The day continues in the park with the famous FREE bean feed, family and friend’s potluck galore, cool activities and live music.

Here’s a glimpse of how the day plays out, complete with Local Tips:

6 AM – Traditional Bean Cooking Begins. Volunteers start cooking homestyle beans in 12 kettles ranging in size from 50 – 100 gallons!

• Tip: Rise & Shine – Get to the park at 6 AM to set out your chairs for a good view of the parade. Set them west facing to avoid hot early morning rays. Placement near one of the announcement booths ensures you’ll hear lots of Paso history and details about each of the parade entries. Cruise over to the huge bean vats and watch the locals create 900-gallons of Pioneer Beans. Ask them questions, they love to share their secret recipe!

8 AM – Children’s Pet Show and Little Cowboy/Cowgirl Contest

10 AM – Parade Starts at 16^th Street and Spring Street and weaves its way down Spring around the park

• Tip: Parking – No matter where you set your chairs, or didn’t, there is ample parking just a few blocks in any direction. Be sure to pack your sunscreen and cold beverages. Use a wagon to help lug your gear!

12 PM – FREE Bean Feed, Concert in the Park Gazebo, Horseshoe Pitching Contest, Whiskerino Contest, Community Picnic. That’s right, free beans for everyone! Bring your big pot or large container from home and get in line. Those delicious beans that have been cooking all morning are for the community to enjoy. Make a day of it, picnic with your family and friends and listen to the Spaghetti Western Swing tunes of The Carolyn Sills Combo.

• Tip: Beans – Yes, these famous Pioneer Beans are as good at the rumors about them. The line will get long … and fast. Wait about 30 minutes and the line will be gone with plenty of beans left- you will not miss out! Forgot your pot at home? Not to worry, they have to-go containers just for you. We hope you celebrate Paso Robles greatest community event and try those scrumptious beans.

Find out all the details and see auxiliary Pioneer Day happenings at www.pasoroblespioneerday.org.