Pony Express Days
Pony Express Days
Pony Express Days is McKinleyville’s beloved annual community festival, held every year since 1968. Each June, the community comes together for favorite traditions like the Chili Cook-Off, parade down Central Avenue, family festival at Pierson Park, local vendors, music, contests, youth activities, and more.
Thank you for celebrating Pony Express Days 2026 with us! This year’s theme, Coastal Roots, Western Boots, honored McKinleyville’s coastal setting, Western roots, small-town spirit, and the community pride that keeps this tradition going.
Planning for future Pony Express Days celebrations will continue, with details for 2027 shared as they become available.
Countdown to Pony Express Days 2027
There’s something truly special about living in a place where the whole town shows up—not just to watch a parade, but to be part of something bigger.
Pony Express Days has been happening in McKinleyville since 1968. It’s changed over the years and it will keep changing—but the heart of it remains: neighbors coming together, families making memories, friends lining the streets, kids waving from floats, laughter in the park.
This short video captures just a glimpse of the joy, the effort, and the people that made the 2025 celebration so meaningful.
Take a moment to watch—and let it be a reminder of how lucky we are to call this place home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s):
When is Pony Express Days?
Pony Express Days is typically held each year in late May and early June in McKinleyville, California, with the parade and festival taking place on the first Saturday in June.
Pony Express Days 2026 was held May 28 through June 7, with the Chili Cook-Off on June 4 and the parade and festival on June 6. Details for future Pony Express Days celebrations will be shared as planning gets underway.
Where is Pony Express Days held?
Main events take place in McKinleyville, California, including the parade down Central Avenue and the festival at Pierson Park.
How can I participate?
Community members, businesses, vendors, sponsors, parade entries, volunteers, and Chili Cook-Off teams can participate through the applications linked on this page.
Does Pony Express Days have a theme each year?
Yes. Each year, Pony Express Days has a theme that helps connect the parade, festival, contests, community activities, window displays, and local celebrations.
The 2026 theme was “Coastal Roots, Western Boots,” celebrating McKinleyville’s coastal setting, Western roots, small-town spirit, and community pride.
New to Pony Express Days?
Read the story behind McKinleyville’s annual community celebration.
