Pioneer Day traditions to participate in this year
For generations, the second Saturday in October has been a time for the community to gather and celebrate its agricultural and ranching heritage through traditions that have become as familiar as the parade itself. In Pioneer Day’s early years, organizers encouraged residents to “leave your pocketbooks behind,” promising a day of free food, entertainment and fellowship.
Nearly a century later, that spirit remains at the heart of the celebration.
This year, Pioneer Day returns Saturday, October 10, with plenty of contests and activities before and after the parade.
A morning for the youngest pioneers
The festivities begin at 8 a.m. with the Children’s Pet Contest at the Paso Robles City Park Gazebo. Open to children 14 and under, the contest gives young Paso Roblans a chance to bring their favorite animals into the celebration.
Immediately afterward, at 8:15 a.m., the gazebo becomes the stage for the Littlest Cowboy and Cowgirl Contest. Children 6 and under compete for the honor of being named the best-dressed — and cutest — cowboy, cowgirl or pioneer.
Growing a Pioneer Day tradition
The Whiskerino Contest is another tradition with deep roots, dating back at least to 1935.
The contest grew from Paso Robles' connection to farmers, ranchers, cowboys and townspeople. In its early days, local merchants grew their beards during the month leading up to Pioneer Day as a show of respect for the bearded men coming into town.
Over time, the competition developed colorful judging criteria. In 1945, judges considered the “luxuriance of foliage, originality of design and brilliance of color.”
This year's contest will be judged by On The Park Salon and Suites. Categories include Most Unique, Best Mustache, Fullest, Best Overall, Best Try and the James Prizmich Legacy Award for Best Style. Registration and judging begin at 12:30 p.m. in the park following the parade.
A pot of beans and a promise
At the center of Pioneer Day's history is the Bean Feed, a tradition that has brought families together in City Park for 95 years.
The Paso Robles Lions Club has been a constant presence behind the event for more than 85 years. Incorporated in 1939, the club has supported numerous community projects, including the original horseshoe and barbecue pits in City Park, handmade street signs, street lighting and the flagpole at War Memorial Stadium.
On Pioneer Day morning, Lions Club members typically arrive around 6 a.m. to begin preparing the beans. Approximately 10 large pots are filled with water and beans and simmered for hours before meat and vegetables are added.
By noon, as the parade concludes, the beans are ready to serve.
Nearly a century after Paso Robles was told to leave its pocketbooks behind, the invitation remains much the same: come downtown, take part and celebrate with the community.
