JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
The air is chilly and the wind is enough to blow a hat off at this year's Dixie National Rodeo Parade.
"I'm cold, I'm freezing!" says Krissie Brooks of Star.
Spectators bundled up and kept moving, jumping out for beads and candy, and warmed themselves with good cheer.
"We're loving it. It's a wonderful thing to get out and do, especially with your grandkids on an early Saturday morning," said Rachel Brooks, Krissie's grandmother. "It's a little brisk and cook, but it's very well worth it."
Some are newcomers to the parade, and some make it a point to show up every year.
"I love it. I got a sister and brother in law in the parade, on their horses," said Peggy Bunkley of Florence.
"My favorite part of the parade is mostly the horses because I like horses," Krissie Brooks said.
That's no problem, because there are plenty of horses to see at the rodeo parade.
Some are even carrying state officials.
We caught up with Governor Phil Bryant, sitting high atop a horse.
"Just a beautiful day. The wind has been blowing, but to see these young children out here, that's what it's all about," Gov. Bryant said. "We're just having a great time, everyone needs to come to the rodeo."
State treasurer Lynn Fitch is also participating.
"This is a wonderful event, exciting, fun, family oriented," Fitch said.
Mississippi Agriculture Commissioner Cindy Hyde-Smith enjoyed her first rodeo parade as Commissioner.
"I'm confident (on a horse). Been thrown many times, but I'm older, wiser now so I don't ride those young horses anymore," Hyde-Smith said.. "We got the greatest cowboys in the world."
Each year, the rodeo parade ushers in the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo on the Fairgrounds.
The show runs until February 19.
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