Reno, Nevada, proudly carries the title of the “Biggest Little City in the World,” and its rodeo tradition is no less grand. Known as the “Wildest, Richest, Fastest Rodeo in the West”, the Reno Rodeo is an annual celebration of Western heritage, attracting thousands of visitors and competitors from around the globe.

With over 100 years of history, the Reno Rodeo offers an exciting blend of tradition, competition, and community spirit.

The Reno Rodeo began in 1919, shortly after World War I, as a way to celebrate Nevada’s cowboy culture and bring the community together. The rodeo was originally held in a small arena, but it eventually moved to the larger Reno Livestock Events Center.

Over the years, it has grown from a small-town gathering into a world-class event, now recognized as one of the premier rodeos on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) circuit. In its century-long history, the Reno Rodeo has become synonymous with high-stakes competition, drawing some of the best cowboys, cowgirls, and livestock in the sport.

The Reno Rodeo is packed with action, featuring a wide array of events that highlight the skill, courage, and tradition of the Western way of life. Here’s a look at some of the most popular events:

Bareback Riding

This adrenaline-filled event tests the strength and endurance of cowboys as they ride a bucking horse without a saddle, relying only on their grip and balance.

Saddle Bronc Riding

Known as the “classic event of rodeo,” saddle bronc riding requires riders to maintain control and finesse while on a bucking bronco.

Bull Riding

As one of the most popular and dangerous events, bull riding pits cowboys against fierce bulls, with riders aiming to stay on for the required eight seconds.

Team Roping

This event showcases teamwork and precision as two cowboys work together to rope and stop a steer in the shortest time possible.

Barrel Racing

A favorite among cowgirls, barrel racing combines speed and skill as riders maneuver their horses around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels.

Steer Wrestling

Also called “bulldogging,” this event tests a cowboy’s strength and agility as they leap from a horse to wrestle a steer to the ground.

The Reno Rodeo is also known for its large purses. The rodeo offers over $1 million in prize money each year, making it one of the richest rodeos in the world. This attracts some of the best cowboys and cowgirls in the world to Reno each year.

In addition to the prize money, the Reno Rodeo also offers a number of other benefits to its contestants. The rodeo provides free housing and meals to all contestants, and it also offers a number of other perks, such as free transportation and access to a fitness center.

The Reno Rodeo is also a community celebration that brings people together to honor Nevada’s Western heritage. Beyond the rodeo arena, attendees can enjoy:

• The Reno Rodeo Parade: Featuring floats, marching bands, and local organizations, the parade is a highlight for families and a nod to Reno’s vibrant community spirit.
• The Reno Rodeo Cattle Drive: A living tribute to the Old West, participants drive hundreds of cattle over 100 miles to Reno, providing an unforgettable experience.
• The Carnival and Vendor Fair: Offering food, games, and shopping, the carnival and fair ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Reno Rodeo is a celebration of Nevada’s Western heritage and its enduring connection to the cowboy way of life.

It brings together athletes, spectators, and families for 10 days of thrilling action, entertainment, and community bonding. For competitors, it offers the opportunity to earn points toward qualifying for the prestigious National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas.

Beyond the arena, the Reno Rodeo fosters a sense of pride and identity, ensuring that the traditions of the West are preserved for future generations.