The 2017 Tucson Rodeo – La Fiesta de los Vaqueros is almost upon us. The fun starts Feb. 18 when the gates open at the Tucson Rodeo Grounds. Cowboys and cowgirls can enjoy the Coors Barn when it opens daily at noon, which features a live feed of the rodeo. As well as the adult rodeo action, there is also kids’ rodeo action every day.
A Rodeo Loaded with Action
The rodeo day gets started with the RAM Mutton Bustin’ and Justin Junior Rodeo that begins at 12:30 pm. The ProRodeo competition runs from 2-4:30 pm. The rodeo completion features the best pro cowboy and cowgirl action. The Tucson Rodeo is one of the top 25 rodeos on the Professional Cowboys Rodeo Association (PCRA) schedule. It is the first major outdoor rodeo on the tour, which brings a lot of energy to each cowboy and cowgirl.
The rodeo competition runs for six performances. The top 12 cowgirls and cowboys from the Saturday and Sunday rodeos compete in the finals on Sunday, Feb. 25. There will be more than 650 competitors at the 2017 Tucson Rodeo vying for their shot at more than $460,000 in prize money. They compete in events like bull riding, bronc riding, bareback riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, team roping and tie-down roping.
When the rodeo competition winds down each day, the fun heats up at the event’s legendary afterparty. The Coors Barn Dance runs from 4-8 pm daily. There are lots of fun themes and charities at the 2017 Tucson Rodeo – La Fiesta de los Vaqueros. Sunday, Feb. 19, is Pink Day, when cowboys, cowgirls and fans wear pink to help raise breast cancer awareness.
Fun at the Parade
Another highlight of the rodeo is the Tuscon Rodeo Parade, which is the longest non-motorized parade in the world. It is a two-hour spectacle that features historic horse-drawn carriages and buggies in a celebration of Tucson’s Western and Mexican heritage. The parade begins at 9 am daily.
La Fiesta de los Vaqueros means “The Celebration of the Cowboys,” which is exactly what this rodeo is all about. If you are a cowboy or cowgirl from the US or Canada, show up for this amazing event. Come experience the fun mix of Mexican and Western heritage that make this rodeo a truly unique event.
