Gilbert Days retuthis week with a weekend of events including a parade, festival, rodeo and races. 

The celebration, which began in 1959 and celebrates the town’s ranching and agricultural roots, has grown into one of Gilbert’s signature traditions. The annual event now draws thousands of residents and visitors each fall. 

The Gilbert Days Festival will take place Nov. 21 and 22 at Gilbert Regional Park, 3005 E. Queen Creek Road.  

The event runs from 4 to 9 p.m. both days and will feature live music, games, inflatables, food and shopping. Pre-sale tickets are $5 per day plus fees, and children 12 and under are free with registration. Tickets are available online through the town’s website. 

Friday’s entertainment includes the Dina Preston Band from 4 to 6 p.m. and Jemini from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m.  

Saturday’s lineup features The Grant Brothers from 4 to 6 p.m. and Ship Happens from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. 

The Gilbert Days Parade steps off at 8:30 a.m. Nov. 22 along Gilbert Road between Elliot Road and Juniper Avenue.  

More than 75 schools, businesses and community groups are expected to participate under the theme “Out of this World.”  

Free parking will be available throughout the Heritage District. 

The Gilbert Half Marathon, 10K and 5K races also take place Nov. 22, starting at Verde at Cooley Station, 3975 E. Williams Field Road.  

The half marathon begins at 7 a.m., followed by the 10K at 7:20 a.m. and the 5K at 7:40 a.m.  

Registration is available online, and proceeds benefit the Shun the Sun Foundation, which promotes skin cancer prevention. 

After the races, a post-race expo will be held at Verde at Cooley Station, featuring deals from local businesses for runners and spectators. 

The Gilbert Days Rodeo will be held at Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Centre in Queen Creek. Competition is scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 21, 5 p.m. Nov. 22 and 2 p.m. Nov. 23. 

More information and ticket details are available on the rodeo’s website.