Cowgirls and cowboys alike, get ready to let er buck as rodeo pandemonium comes to town. Counting down each ride by the second, you will be grasping to your seat, biting your lip and shielding your eyes in anticipation.
It's a uniquely American spectacle, one that harkens back to the untamed wilderness of the frontier and to the men and women who blazed new paths west. And beyond that, it's a hell of a good time.
For this reason we at TravelPulse have spotlighted 10 rodeos in the U.S. for the rodeo-crazed fan, or for those just looking .
Pendleton, Oregon: Pendleton Round-up
This annual event will have you on the edge of your seat as cowboys bob and weave from the tops of the horses while partaking in calf roping, barrel races and steer roping. If you are truly in for a heart-racing, mind- boggling experience, the Brahma bull riding competition is eight seconds of dangerous excitement as the rider attempt the skilful task or staying mounted on the bull by a long braided rope.
Held the second week of September, come see what the fuss is all about while watching the parades, becoming familiar with the culture, or simply joining in on one of the largest rodeos to hit the U.S. since 1910.
Prescott: AZ: Prescott Frontier Days
As the world's oldest rodeo, Prescott offers up some of the most elite riders in the world. From June 30-July 6 you will witness raging bulls charging frantic cowboys, and riders clenching the reins of their steeds for dear life.
Established in 1888, this age-old tradition keeps crazed-devotees coming back time and time again jeering, screaming and cursing madly at a gut-wrenching show.
Reno, NV: Reno, Rodeo
Enter the Wild Wild West in its true form with a visit to the Reno Rodeo. In the madness of broncos throwing their hooves, get ready to fix your sights on steer wrestling: a typical competition of man verses bull as the cowboy drastically takes the bull by the horns to keep the wild animal under his control.
Or watch in amazement as bareback riders try to latch onto the rigging of the horse with just one hand while maintaining control for the eight longest seconds in sport. The excitement hits June 19-28.
Ellensburg WA: Ellensburg Rodeo
There is nothing that can stand between a roper and his stallion in this exciting show. As the home of the World Finale of PRCA's Extreme Bulls Tour, spectators migrate here to get in on the action and watch these feisty animals engage the crowd with their short tempers.
Beginning August 29 to September 1, you will have more than enough time to witness a ruckus unlike no other with hundreds of contestants digging their feet in the dirt all for a chance to win grand cash prices and of course keep the crowd on their toes.
Cheyenne, WY: Cheyanne Frontier Days
This just might be the rodeo of all rodeos, according to locals. Either way Cheyenne Frontier Days, July 18-27, does not disappoint when it comes to its contestants putting on an intense performance. Championship Bull Riding events, the Challenge Rodeo and even the chance to go behind the chutes tour makes this rodeo a cowpoke's dream.
With a multitude of steers and horses raging out of control, galloping and charging the riders violently, you will quickly see why this world-class event is considered the "Daddy of 'em all."
Greeley, CO: Greeley Stampede
If you want to see some good old American bullfighting, look no further as the Greeley Stampede honors this Mexican tradition and takes the intensifying game to a whole new level. From bullfighters attempting death-defying tricks amid raging bulls and mutton busting in which children ride or race sheep, avid rodeo-goers come here to experience first-rate performances of chapped wrestlers, ropers and athletes.
Starting on June 29 to July 4, watch in pure amazement as these contestants smack their backs unto the hard bodies of their steeds while trying to keep their hats on their heads.
The Big Island, HI: Parker Ranch Fourth of July Rodeo
Idyllic weather and rodeo fun makes Parker Ranch the ideal place to spend Independence Day. Here, exhilarating steer wrestling, double mugging, horse racing and other competitions will make any cowboy jump for joy. To see paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) master their breeds in artistic fashion, head to Waimea and join the massive crowds in all the roping fun.
Nampa, ID: Snake River Stampede
If high-stake games, rowdy crowds and rambunctious animals are your thing, then you have come to the right place. Held on July 15-19, this exciting event will be a timeless adventure for spectators glaring at the competitors who will be either seen getting trampled by hoofs, pinned to the ground, or riding their beastly opponent like a champ.
From children to adults, contestants come in all ages-roping and barreling while kicking up dirt with rope and hat in tow.
Houston, TX: Livestock Show and Rodeo
Everything's bigger in Texas, especially the Livestock Show and Rodeo - a world-class event, which is just as cultural as it is amazing. With big acts hitting the stage and premier competitions performed by the world's most elite riders, this attraction is a must-see whether you are a beginner or an avid rodeo watcher.
You will be cheering in no time watching professional cowboys and cowgirls grace the arena with their athletic skills. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, hurry up and head to the stands to bask in the energetic vibe that draws a multitude of spectators to Texas for this equestrian adventure.
Dodge City, KS: Dodge City Days
Your Dodge City days, July 26-Aug.4, will be spent in pure bliss after you have witnessed these mares in full action, especially as the rich of scents of barbecue flow through the air.
Yes, that's right: rodeo and barbecue. This marriage made in heaven only adds to the charisma of the Old West, making this location premier for rodeo enthusiasts. For 10 day,s experience the pandemonium of this traditional event, that draws thousands of eager fans waiting to see which contestants will come out on top. Plus, what better way to take in the atmosphere then with a barbecued delicacy in hand.
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