Avondale brings back Billy Moore Days festival after pandemic shutdown

PHOENIX – A West Valley city’s celebration of its founder will return to the streets in full soon after a year off.

Avondale, which is also marking its 75th anniversary this year, has scheduled Billy Moore Days to run Oct. 14-17. The outdoor festival was shut down by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, although the parade was held virtually.

Now, the carnival-like atmosphere and its Western theme will be back in Avondale’s Old Town, complete with games, rides, contests, food, cowboy stunt shows and other live entertainment.

Admission and parking are free.

The carnival at DeConcini Park on Western Avenue near Dysart Road opens Oct. 14. The parade is set to begin at 9 a.m. on Oct. 16. Floats competing for prizes, horse-drawn wagons, marching bands, dancers, antique cars, school groups and more will hit the roadway.

Performers will take the stage Oct. 15-16, including Ballet Folklorico Esperanza, the Back Nine Bandits, and Gustavo Angeles.

Prizes will be awarded for best floats, facial hair and hollering.

Some road closures will be in place to accommodate the festivities, the city said.

Western Avenue will be closed from Third to Seventh streets beginning at noon Oct. 15 and closed from Litchfield Road to Seventh Street beginning at 6 a.m. on Oct. 16. Fifth Street will be shut down from Western Avenue to Agua Fria High School between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Oct. 16.

The festival began in 1954.

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