5 Great Rodeos Worth Visiting
Published Feb 15, 2013
Share
If you’re a fan of rodeos, whether competing or just watching the action, there’s a wide selection of events from coast to coast. Here are just a few notable rodeos worth checking out.
Rodeos Worth the Road Trip
The Angola Prison Rodeo in Angola, Louisiana
The oldest prison rodeo in the country, this event was created by the Louisiana State Penitentiary to channel inmate’s violent energy into something positive and productive. A popular attraction for spectators, the rodeo features traditional events as well as the more unusual, such as Convict Poker, where inmates sit playing poker in the arena and a bull is released. The last inmate still seated wins the event.
Snake River Stampede in Nampa, Idaho
This week-long bash is one of the top twelve pro rodeos recognized by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and will be celebrating 100 years in 2013. The week is kicked off with the ‘Snake River Dayz’, which features some great community events like the buckaroo breakfast.
National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado
This rodeo is over 100 years old, and is the largest exhibition of stock animals in the world. The event kicks off with a parade through downtown Denver, and the rodeo portion has won multiple ‘Indoor Rodeo of the Year’ titles.
Cowtown Rodeo in Pilesgrove, New Jersey
When you think New Jersey you probably don’t think rodeos, but the Cowtown event is the longest running weekly rodeo in the country. In addition to the seasonal rodeo, they also have a year-round Cowtown flea market.
Ellensburg Rodeo in Ellensburg, Washington
The largest rodeo in the United States’ Pacific Northwest region, the Ellensburg event goes down every Labor Day weekend and is often named in the Top 10 American Rodeos. Ellensburg hosts the World Finals of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association ‘Extreme Bulls’ tour.
