Not My First Rodeo: My Rodeo Bucket List
Fact: I’ve been to a rodeo or two.
Since I’m experiencing major FOMO from missing this year’s Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo, I thought I’d share my rodeo attendance résumé and include my bucket list.
Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo
The RMV Rodeo, the richest two-day rodeo in the country. This rodeo holds a special place in my heart because I’ve been fortunate enough to know the folks behind it and volunteer. Located in beautiful San Juan Capistrano, California, the rodeo brings some of the best talent and stock. If you’re in SoCal you must do yourself the favor and attend. If you want the full experience. head to El Adobe for a delicious Mexican dinner and Swallows Inn for drinks after.
If you go this year, please share photos so I can live vicariously.
Perfect Southern California weather, and the smell of livestock and fresh arena dirt. Does it get any better?
American Royal Pro Rodeo
A Kansas City tradition. This year, Kansas City is celebrating 70 years of rodeo at the American Royal. What’s neat about this PRCA-sanctioned event is that the nation’s top cowboys and cowgirls travel to downtown Kansas City to compete in the midst of a livestock show, horse show and barbecue competition (it’s Kansas City, of course) held each year in September - November.
Fun fact: The Kansas City Royals derive their name in part from the Royal. Go yals.
National Finals Rodeo
Be warned: you’ll never watch or even experience a rodeo the same way.
The NFR isn’t just a rodeo, it’s an experience.
For 10 days, cowboys, cowgirls, top hands and everything in between take over the Las Vegas Strip, and it’s a blissful blur of excitement, entertainment and celebration of the western lifestyle. Cowboy Christmas is one of my favorite parts, I haven’t left empty-handed yet!
The most amazing opening performance. No. Words.
Pretty Prairie Rodeo
Kansas’ largest outdoor night rodeo! This rodeo is special to me because I made a quick trip to South-Central Kansas with my Dad, who loves the sport just as much, maybe even more than me. The people are genuine, and the performance is seemingly amplified under the bright arena lights and open Kansas night sky.
Small town Kansas, I love you.
Small town, big deal.
Tucson Rodeo
Also known as La Fiesta de los Vaqueros.
Matt and I were fortunate get to attend this Southwestern gem together. Did you know it’s one of the top 25 professional rodeos in North America? Not only is the rodeo rich in history, it’s in February, so the weather is absolutely perfect for snowbirds and those looking to get out of winter elsewhere.
I’m biased, but Arizona knows how to throw a party. The event has grown to a nine-day celebration centered on the Tucson Rodeo, taco ‘bout a party!
While I’ve been to a few, there’s still a lot I’d like to attend. Hey, a girl’s gotta have a bucket list…
Bucket List
NFR Round 10
The American
Houston Rodeo
Calgary Stampede
Cheyenne
Pendleton
Let’s talk your rodeo strategy. Your game plan.
Where have you been, and where are you headed next on the rodeo road?
