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The Reno Rodeo Experience

rodeoThe Reno Rodeo – an experience rich in heritage, tradition, and adrenaline-pumping athleticism – is bucking into its 99th year as a local staple. From June 14-23, 2018, the fifth largest rodeo in the nation offers a ten-day program with more than 137 awe-inspiring events. Here are the top 10 experiences no spectator should miss at the Reno Rodeo.

1. Cattle Drive

The Reno Rodeo offers guests an otherworldly experience for the five days leading up to the start of the big show. Sixty guests join a team of volunteer cowboys to drive 300 head of rodeo steers from Doyle, California to Reno, Nevada. This is more than a vacation; it’s a paradigm shift offering a chance to see the world through the lens of a true-blue cowboy. The final leg culminates at high noon on June 14 as the Cattle Drive makes its grand entrance into Reno. It’s certainly a sight to behold as the buckaroos navigate the steers through the paved streets of Reno, much to the marvel of those looking on. The completion of the Reno Rodeo Cattle Drive marks the official start of the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West.” 

2. Xtreme Bull Riding

Consider this: 40 of the best bull riders meet 40 of the rankest bulls in the industry. This high-intensity night of bull riding is one of the finest displays of contestant and animal athletes in the rodeo world. Cattle Drive by morning and Xtreme Bull Riding by night make for a great day one at the Reno Rodeo.

3. Parade

What better way to celebrate Reno’s Midtown District and all its revitalized and charming venues than to do it while enjoying the Reno Rodeo Parade. Block parties, friends, floats, and parade entries are the talk of Midtown on Saturday, June 16.

4. Kids Day and the Mutton Bustin’ Champions Challenge

Spend Father’s Day amidst activities galore for the whole family and watch 5-to-7-year-olds compete for the coveted title of Champion of the Mutton Bustin’ Champions Challenge. This action-packed family day features western and community attractions ranging from dummy ropings, 4H exhibitions, blacksmith demonstrations, interactive booths featuring firemen, policemen, vendors, photo booths, face painting, and more.

5. Branding Room

Elevate your status and roll in style in the Branding Room. This exclusive dining experience is high-class western hospitality at its best. Branding Room guests receive a one-of-a-kind dining package in a private venue before each night’s performance. Nightly live entertainment, photo booths, and bottomless beverages make this one for the bucket list.

6. Double R Marketplace and Reno Rodeo Museum

Fill your need for wanderlust as exhibitors from all over the country display mercantile that leaves even the most inexperienced rodeo-goer full of culture curiosity. Tack, furniture, fashion, and the fusion of modern and traditional western trends come together to provide one of the most unique shopping experiences. To add to the allure, stroll through the grassroots beginnings of the Reno Rodeo at the Reno Rodeo Museum. Programs from the first Round-up in 1919 and paraphernalia of nearly 99 years will make for an educational and interesting stroll through time.

7. Food Court and Carnival

Corn dogs, funnel cakes, BBQ, deep-fried pickles, and rides! Get a taste of all the greatest fan food a rodeo can offer, along with thrilling rides, games, and fun. Win a stuffed animal, enter a carnival camel race, soar above the city, or take in all the sights. No matter how you do it, the carnival is a great pastime and the food court leaves every cowboy and cowgirl hungry for more.

8. Day Events

Throughout the  10 days of the Reno Rodeo, events at the indoor arena offer guests hours of thrilling entertainment, including the Championship Drill Team Competition, Bob Feist Invitational Open Team Roping, the Reno Million Team Roping, All Women’s Team Roping, and Junior National Finals Rodeo Qualifying Rodeo. Combine that with the hours of fun on Kids Day, the Mutton Bustin’ Champions Challenge, Rodeo Slack, and the Special Kids Rodeo and there is no shortage of WOW. 

9. Night Life and Theme Nights

Ready to cut loose? The Reno Rodeo features dueling nightlife tents with DJs and live music. Join in the festivities at the Jack Tent or take a spin around the dance floor at the Coors Tent and you won’t be disappointed. Countless hours of entertainment and good, fun-loving people from all over the nation make any night out an adventure to remember. If you want to fit in, be sure to look up the Theme Nights and dress the part. The Reno Rodeo supports a number of groups, companies, and awareness initiatives, and there is a theme for every one of them. Pull on your cowboy boots and join in the fun!

10. The Reno Rodeo Nightly Performances

Any or all of the nine full Reno Rodeo performances feature Team Roping, Steer Wrestling, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bareback Riding, Bull Riding, Tie-Down Roping, Barrel Racing, Businessman’s Steer Decorating, Mutton Bustin’, specialty acts, fireworks, flag girls, rodeo queens, and more! Come out and see exactly what gave the Reno Rodeo the tagline of the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West!” Performances take place at 7 p.m. June 15-23 and are set against the backdrop of breathtaking Nevada sunsets.

For more information on the Reno Rodeo and all of the experiences mentioned, please visit www.renorodeo.com.