There is nothing more Americana than a classic rodeo. You will experience the true spirit of the Wild West if you choose one of the premier roping and bull-riding events in the country. Put on your boots and spurs — here are seven of the top rodeo experiences to put on your travel bucket list:
1. World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo – Payson, Arizona
As the name directly implies, this is the longest-running rodeo on the planet, now at over 135 consecutive years of production. Located in Payson, Arizona, this quintessential rodeo event features a host of bull riders, clowns, steer wrestlers, and numerous specialty acts that you will not see anywhere else. This event usually takes place in mid-August, giving you the chance to soak up that desert sunshine.
2. Mexican Rodeo – San Antonio, Texas
Also known as the San Antonio Charros, this event is a distinguished authentic Mexican rodeo deep in the heart of Texas. The rodeo usually happens toward the end of April. Featuring synchronized horse riding, bull riding, and a variety of Mexican cultural activities and food and drink offerings, this rodeo truly has it all.
3. The Greeley Stampede Rodeo – Greeley, Colorado
This Colorado classic is the perfect way to celebrate the 4th of July holiday season. The 12-day event offers traditional rodeo events alongside a spectacular carnival. Visitors will also appreciate the vast array of musical artists that take to the stage each year to provide nighttime entertainment.
4. Reno Rodeo – Reno, Nevada
There is more to Reno than just the casino scene, and this rodeo proves it. Boasting its status as the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West,” over 140,000 revelers come to this 10-day event held in mid-June. Guests will enjoy a full slate of rodeo events in addition to fireworks shows, a carnival, truck shows, and plenty of activities that cater to children.
5. Wrangler National Finals Rodeo – Las Vegas, Nevada
Not to be outdone by Reno, Las Vegas puts on quite a rodeo in its own right. As the culmination of the rodeo season, the national finals are the granddaddy event of them all. The 10-day event happens in early December at the Thomas & Mack Center. This popular event sells out, so be sure to act fast to get your tickets.
6. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo – Houston, Texas
This massive event draws approximately two million visitors throughout its 20-day March run, making it the biggest of its kind. While the event aims to promote the breeding of livestock, it also features no shortage of fantastic rodeo competitions. The rodeo also boasts a nightly musical act from some of the hottest names in the industry.
7. Ellensburg Rodeo – Ellensburg, Washington
The Wild West truly comes to life with this Washington gem. Held over Labor Day weekend, this rodeo is home to the World Finale of PRCA’s Xtreme Bulls Tour. What began in 1923 has grown more popular over the years.
