This September marks another chapter in Kingman’s most beloved annual tradition, as the historic Route 66 community prepares to honor its most famous native son with Andy Devine Days on September 27th, 2025. This cherished celebration combines the largest parade in Kingman’s history with a professional rodeo that draws competitors and spectators from across the Southwest. The event pays tribute to Andy Devine, the beloved character actor whose distinctive voice and warm personality made him a household name throughout the golden age of Hollywood westerns and television.
Community Spirit and Heritage
Andy Devine Days represents the heart and soul of Kingman’s community spirit, transforming the historic downtown area into a vibrant celebration of western heritage. The festival celebrates Kingman’s roots in mining, the railroad, Route 66, ranching, and rodeos – all elements that shaped the character of this remarkable desert town. This annual gathering brings together local families, visiting tourists, and western enthusiasts who appreciate authentic small-town celebrations that honor both historical legacy and contemporary community values.
The Grand Parade
The centerpiece of Andy Devine Days is the spectacular parade that draws approximately 5,000 spectators and features around 100 entries showcasing the diverse spirit of Mohave County. Starting at 10:00 AM, the procession winds through downtown Kingman along the historic Route 66 corridor, featuring marching bands, elaborate floats, vintage automobiles, horse-drawn wagons, and mounted riders in period costumes. Local businesses, school groups, civic organizations, and neighboring communities participate enthusiastically, creating a colorful display that reflects both nostalgia for the Old West and pride in contemporary achievements.
The parade route follows Andy Devine Avenue, the main street renamed in honor of Kingman’s most celebrated son. Spectators line the sidewalks of the historic downtown district, many bringing folding chairs and coolers to enjoy the extended celebration. The atmosphere is festive and family-friendly, with children collecting candy thrown from parade entries while adults appreciate the craftsmanship evident in the elaborate floats and costumes. Many visitors use the parade as an opportunity to explore Kingman’s revitalized downtown area, discovering antique shops, restaurants, and historical attractions that tell the story of this remarkable Arizona community.
Professional Rodeo Competition
Following the parade, the celebration continues with the Andy Devine Days PRCA Rodeo, held at the Mohave County Fairgrounds. This professional rodeo features top competitors in all traditional events including bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, team roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and tie-down roping. The rodeo attracts talented athletes from throughout the Southwest who compete for prize money and championship points in their respective categories.
Event Details and Information
📅 Date: Saturday, September 27th, 2025
🕒 Parade Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Parade Route: Downtown Kingman along Andy Devine Avenue (Historic Route 66)
🎪 Rodeo Location: Mohave County Fairgrounds, 2600 Fairgrounds Boulevard, Kingman, AZ 86401
💰 Parade Admission: Free to spectators
🎟️ Rodeo Admission: Ticket information available through The Kingsmen organization
Contact Information
📞 Parade Information: Kingman Parks & Recreation, (928) 757-7919
Address: 3333 Harrison Street, Kingman, AZ 86401
Website: www.cityofkingman.gov (Parks & Recreation section)
Rodeo Information: The Kingsmen Andy Devine Pro Rodeo Committee
Website: www.kingsmenrodeo.org
Social Media: @AndyDevineProRodeoKingman (Facebook)
Participation and Community Involvement
The Andy Devine Days Parade welcomes participation from anyone interested in celebrating Kingman’s western heritage. Parade applications become available May 1st through the Parks & Recreation Office or online through the city website. Participation is free, though commemorative plaques are available for purchase at $25 per entry. The deadline for parade entries is typically September 12th, though late registrations are accepted as space allows.
Parade entries celebrate Kingman’s diverse history and contemporary community life. Traditional western themes predominate, but entries also represent the town’s connection to Route 66, the railroad industry, mining heritage, and modern businesses and organizations. School marching bands, youth groups, civic organizations, and local businesses all contribute to the parade’s success through their creative and enthusiastic participation.
The community preparation for Andy Devine Days begins months in advance, with local organizations planning floats, costumes, and entertainment that showcase their particular contributions to Kingman’s character. This collaborative effort strengthens community bonds while creating an impressive display that visitors remember long after returning home.
Andy Devine Legacy and Historical Significance
Andy Devine earned his place in American entertainment history through his distinctive voice and endearing personality that made him a beloved figure in Hollywood westerns and television programs. Born in Flagstaff but raised in Kingman, Devine’s career spanned decades and included memorable roles as Jingles in “The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok” television series and numerous western films alongside major stars of the era.
Devine’s trademark raspy voice, the result of a childhood accident that damaged his vocal cords, became his greatest asset in creating memorable characters that audiences loved. His success in Hollywood never diminished his affection for Kingman, and he frequently returned to participate in community events and support local causes. The decision to rename the main street in his honor reflects the deep appreciation Kingman residents feel for their most famous native son.
The Mohave Museum of History and Arts features an extensive Andy Devine exhibit that includes memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts from his career. The exhibit provides context for understanding both Devine’s contributions to American entertainment and his enduring connection to Kingman. Visitors during Andy Devine Days often combine their festival experience with museum visits that enhance their appreciation for both the man and the community that shaped him.
Planning Your Visit
Kingman’s location at the intersection of Interstate 40 and US Highway 93 provides excellent access for visitors from Las Vegas (90 minutes), Phoenix (3.5 hours), and Southern California (4 hours). The September timing offers ideal weather conditions, with comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor activities and parade viewing.
Downtown Kingman offers numerous restaurants, shops, and historical attractions within walking distance of the parade route. Many visitors plan extended stays to explore the historic district, visit Route 66 museums, and experience the natural beauty of the surrounding desert landscape. The nearby Hualapai Mountains provide opportunities for hiking and scenic drives that complement the festival experience.
Lodging options range from historic Route 66 motels to modern chain hotels, many of which offer special rates during Andy Devine Days. Visitors are encouraged to make reservations well in advance, as this popular event attracts guests from throughout the Southwest who return annually for the authentic small-town celebration.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Andy Devine Days serves as Kingman’s signature annual event, generating significant economic activity throughout the community. Hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and retail businesses experience their busiest weekend of the year, with many establishments extending hours and offering special promotions to accommodate the influx of visitors.
The festival also strengthens Kingman’s identity as a destination for western heritage tourism and Route 66 enthusiasts. The combination of authentic small-town atmosphere, professional rodeo competition, and genuine community celebration creates a unique experience that distinguishes Kingman from other tourist destinations along the historic highway.
Local youth benefit significantly from the rodeo scholarship programs supported by The Kingsmen organization, which uses proceeds from Andy Devine Days to provide educational opportunities for deserving students. This commitment to youth development ensures that the festival’s impact extends far beyond the weekend celebration, contributing to the long-term vitality of the community.
Conclusion
This annual celebration of Kingman’s most beloved native son offers visitors an authentic western experience that combines professional entertainment with genuine community spirit. Andy Devine Days exemplifies the values of friendship, community pride, and cultural preservation that continue to define small-town Arizona life.
