Central Oregon is renowned for its beautiful landscape, outdoor recreation and rodeo culture. Rodeos have been a part of the Beaver State’s heritage for over a century, and they continue to be a popular activity for both locals and visitors. Sharpen your spurs, grab your Stetson hat, and let’s take a gander at some of the upcoming rodeos in Central Oregon. Giddy up!
A Brief History of Rodeos in Central Oregon
When it comes to rodeos, Central Oregon boasts a rich history that showcases both the region’s deep connection to Western culture and the traditions of the almost mythical cowboy and cowgirl. Rodeos in this area have played a significant role in entertainment, community bonding and preserving the heritage of the American West.
The roots of rodeo in Central Oregon run deep and can be traced to the late 19th century when cattle ranching and horse breeding were the region’s dominant industries. Cowboys and ranchers from Oregon and neighboring states often gathered for informal competitions where they showcased their skills in roping, riding and other feats. These gatherings eventually evolved into more organized events, complete with rodeo royalty; the rodeo queen, for instance, is a high honor; anyone elected queen must be able to demonstrate, among other traits, extensive knowledge of rodeo history and impeccable horsemanship.
Central Oregon’s oldest rodeos date back decades and are among the oldest in the country; as such, the region has long been a prominent hub for rodeo events. While the Sisters Rodeo and the Crooked River Roundup are probably the most well-known, there are loads of high-energy events in La Pine and Redmond that take place each year, as well.
Your Essential 2023 Central Oregon Rodeo Guide
Sisters Rodeo
The Sisters Rodeo, established in 1940, is not only one of the most popular rodeos in the Pacific Northwest; it’s also one of the oldest. Known as “The Biggest Little Show in the World,” this beloved event attracts thousands of visitors every year and takes place in the charming, Wild West-themed town of Sisters, Oregon. Its variety of events include bull riding, barrel racing, team roping and, new in 2023, the Benefit Barrel Race, open to amateurs of all ages. (Proceeds will be donated to those within the rodeo community who are battling cancer.)
In addition to the rodeo, there are also a number of other activities to enjoy, including live music, a parade and a carnival. This year’s specialty act features Tomas Garcilazo—“Charro on the Road”—a skilled performer known for his refined horsemanship and roping abilities.
The Sisters Rodeo is unique in that it is entirely run by volunteers; from the announcers to the ticket sellers, everyone who works at the rodeo is a volunteer. This makes it a true community event and allows all of the profits to go towards local causes. It’s also affordable, with tickets priced at just $16 to $24 per day. And if you want to stay nearby, learn about RV parks and campgrounds in Central Oregon for overnight inspiration.
When: June 7-11, 2023
Where: Sisters Rodeo Grounds, Sisters, Oregon
More Info: Official Sisters Rodeo website
La Pine Rodeo
Another storied Central Oregon rodeo that dates back to the 1940s, the La Pine Rodeo, is an annual event held in La Pine, Oregon that remains one of the most popular in the state. The La Pine Rodeo features bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, team roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, tie-down roping and the ever-popular bull riding competition. There are also events for children, such as mutton busting, where kids ride sheep!
Aside from all the favorite events, the La Pine Rodeo also features live music, a carnival, food vendors and a beer garden. Special events include a parade and a fireworks show. Tickets are $20, $15 for seniors and children aged 6-12, and free for children 5 and younger; purchase your tickets at the gate or in advance at local vendors, such as the La Pine Feed Store and Bend’s A Bit Less Tack. And if you’re making a weekend out of it, check out our guide to hotels in Central Oregon for ideas for where to stay.
When: June 30-July 2, 2023
Where: La Pine Rodeo Association’s Rodeo Grounds, La Pine, Oregon
More Info: Official La Pine Rodeo website
Crooked River Roundup
Prineville cowpokes created the area’s first rodeo track back in 1900, and the first iteration of the Crooked River Roundup followed in 1944—creating a rich tradition that’s earned Prineville the moniker of “Cowboy Capital of Oregon.”
One of the many events which sets the Prineville rodeo apart is its inaugural kick-off: an exciting cattle drive down Main Street. The drive is followed by a free community chili feed, sponsored by the Prineville police and fire departments.
As for the main attraction, expect all the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) events fans have come to know and love including bareback riding, steer wrestling, bull riding, team roping, tie-down roping, breakaway roping, barrel racing and saddle bronc riding. A new event is The Crooked River Roundup Young Guns competition, which features eager youngsters aged 6-18 who compete alongside the rodeo pros—the opportunity of a lifetime for aspiring cowboys and cowgirls. Crooked River Roundup tickets can be purchased online.
When: June 22-24, 2023 (rodeo) and July 12-15, 2023 (races)
Where: Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville, Oregon
More Info: Crooked River Roundup event listing
Deschutes County Fair and Rodeo
The Deschutes County Fair and Rodeo is one of the biggest events in the high desert, and it takes place in Redmond every year. The massive event, happening August 2-6, 2023, includes a PRCA rodeo—complete with bull riding, barrel racing, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding and bareback riding, as well as a carnival and local entertainment.
This classic Redmond rodeo will also offer local beers, wines and over 30 food vendors, with everything from cotton candy and corn dogs to burgers and burritos and even fried Twinkies. With so much to see and do, we’d understand if you spent a few full days at the event—so learn more about motels in Central Oregon for the lowdown on some of the region’s best accommodations.
When: August 2-6, 2023
Where: Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center
More Info: Official Deschutes County Fair and Rodeo website
With its deep history of roundups, cowboy and cowgirl culture and bucking broncs, it’s no wonder Central Oregon is home to some of the most exciting rodeos in the country. Any one of these upcoming events is sure to provide heart-pumping thrills and fun for rodeo enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned rodeo fan or a first-time attendee, mark your calendars and get ready for some unforgettable rodeo experiences in sunny Central Oregon.
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Top State Parks to Visit in Central Oregon
A trip to Central Oregon is usually one with ample time spent in the great outdoors. From the expansive high desert landscape to the Deschutes National Forest and all the rivers, lakes and sometimes volcanos in between, Central Oregon is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. What better way to explore the region than to take a tour of the local state parks? To get started, check out these six state parks to get an idea of what Central Oregon is all about.
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Your Guide to Biking in Redmond, Oregon
Redmond, Oregon is located in the high desert between Bend to the south and Terrebonne—home of Smith Rock State Park—to the north. The city is perfectly situated to explore Central Oregon’s biking trails. As a lesser known destination for outdoor recreation, Redmond can sometimes feel like a local’s secret playground, featuring tons of trails to explore. From a pump track in town to the nearly limitless access to the nearby mountain biking trails of Central Oregon, avid bikers should consider a stop in Redmond for some adventure.
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Tour the Central Oregon Mural Trail
Take a scenic tour around Central Oregon, and among the lush forests, arid high desert landscapes and bright blue skies, you’ll start to notice stunning murals dotting the region. The murals, each with distinct symbols unique to the town, reflect the spirit of Central Oregon in animated colors and design. Artists Katie Daisy and Karen Eland began the “Greetings From…” series with inspiration from vintage postcards. Now, nearly every town in Central Oregon hosts a large hand painted mural with stunning details specifically designed for that town. Follow the Central Oregon Mural Trail and discover hidden treasures in each high desert town along the way.
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Favorite Year-Round Mountain Bike Spots
When winter comes and the snow falls, some of Central Oregon’s popular mountain biking trails become a little too muddy to ride – which means some of the unheralded spots in the region get a little more love. Places like Smith Rock can get scorching hot (and quite crowded) in the summer making it a great spot to head come winter. Want some good locals tips on where to ride? Ask the folks at Hutch’s Bicycles, Pine Mountain Sports or The Hub Cyclery for the 4-1-1, or set up a tour with Cog Wild Mountain Bike Tours and Shuttles.
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The Scenic Waterfalls in Central Oregon
Is there anything more satisfying—anything more awe-inspiring—than gazing upon a thundering waterfall, its raging waters tumbling over ancient rock walls? Does it get any better than seeing a waterfall reach full boil in the midst of an otherwise quiet river as it crashes through a rock-lined canyon?
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Great Getaways: Newberry Country
When plunging into a multi-day adventure in Central Oregon, the number of choices can be well, overwhelming. There is just so much to do in this four-season playground that a traveler can be forgiven for suffering from a little indecision. One strategy is to break down the area by geography, clustering activities together that are within striking distance of a home base, be it a hotel, cabin, or RV parking spot.
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How to Beat the High Desert Heat
During the dog days of summer, one of your best options to beat the heat is to head up to the high lakes and splash around. But when you’re on vacation with the family sometimes all you want to do is go and relax at the pool. Luckily, Central Oregon has a handful of great places to soak up the sun in between cooling off in the water.
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Hiking Black Butte – Central Oregon’s Iconic & Majestic Cinder Cone
From a distance, Black Butte looks like it doesn’t quite match the picturesque alpine mountains that surround it. The volcanic rock that emerges above the tree line gives the impression of a hill constructed with loose stones that was carelessly dropped in the middle of the woods. Unlike the Cascades that puncture the horizon to the west and north, Black Butte can be hiked and enjoyed in under four hours.
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8 Pictures That Will Have You Rethinking Some Life Decisions (Central Oregon Food Edition)
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Central Oregon Hiking Trails
Head east on Highway 20 (Greenwood Avenue) to the Pilot Butte State Park. The parking area and trailhead are just east of the butte. Walk on either the nature trail or the paved road. The road is also for vehicle traffic, weather permitting. It is a wonderful viewpoint for the entire Bend area. This hiking trail is one of the most popular in Central Oregon.