BRAWLEY — Brawley’s Cattle Call weekend came and went with a bang this year marking its biggest revival yet since the COVID-19 pandemic, featuring everything from award-winning flavors and mariachi music to parade float staples and rodeo show legends.

Following kick-off on Saturday, November 4, the annual Chili Cook-off brought many newcomers to the competition and left attendees with an appetite for more fall-time festivities. On Wednesday, November 8, the city’s iconic Mariachi Night drew record numbers of foodies and music lovers alike, crowding the Main Street area from end to end with guests spilling out into the surrounding City Hall and Library lawns. Bands took their turn at the main stage performing to hundreds of listeners parked comfortably on folding chairs or picnic blankets, as well as those visiting booths in the vicinity. Long lines for tacos and aguas frescas crisscrossed the area and the return of the open beer garden concept seemed to be a hit with many throughout the night.

Friday, November 10 kicked off the Cattle Call Rodeo, selling out the arena top to bottom as cowboys, cowgirls and horse riding competition enthusiasts from all corners of the Valley and beyond came together to enjoy some good ol’ fun and games. The rowdiest of all three nights, Friday’s show was followed by another on Saturday evening wrapping up with Sunday’s wholesome Family Day. The 67th annual Brawley Cattle Call Rodeo saw a Mutton Busting record set and honored the long-time rodeo clown Charlie “Too Tall” West for his induction into the Pro Bullfighter and Barrelman Hall of Fame. West has been performing with the company since 1982, and now at the age of 62, the legend revealed that it would be his last time getting into a barrel. The crowd enjoyed everything from the kettle corn and beer to the hype music and comedic commentary, closing out the weekend with a performance by Mariachi Aurora after Sunday’s afternoon show.

Saturday, November 11 thrilled dense crowds lining Main Street from the westside to the eastside, with the Cattle Call Parade donning a record number of 145 entries this year. Coinciding with Veterans Day, the parade was halted at 11 a.m. to commemorate veterans of the armed forces for their service featuring a performance by a local trumpeter.

The well-attended Cattle Call festivities have reenergized the community as event attendance has struggled to make a comeback and has simultaneously provided facilitators an opportunity to reimagine its future as residents and visitors look forward to topping the tradition in the years to come.

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