The International Greeley Stampede Pro Rodeo for 2016 attracts approximately 450,000 visitors every year who arrive from across the United States and various foreign countries. The event is made possible through the efforts of Aims Community College, the Banner Health North Colorado Medical Center and the U.S. Army among others. During the 12-day festival, spectators are thrilled to watch Western athletes compete in:
- Bareback riding
- Saddle bronc riding
- Steer wrestling
- Team roping
- Tie-down roping
- Bull riding
- Barrel racing
Along with the Pro Rodeo competitions, budding PRCA athletes of all ages are also invited to compete in the amusing Kid’s Rodeo, Mutton Bustin’ and Stick Horse Rodeo events.
History of the Greeley Stampede
The heritage and tradition of the Greeley Stampede Pro Rodeo goes back to the late 1800s. The event was originally created to celebrate the efforts of local potato farmers. As such, by 1922, the celebration became known as the Greeley Spud Rodeo. At the time, competitions included bronc riding, roping, pie eating, bicycle, motorcycle and horse races along with a two-mile Model T free for all race. The first official festival drew a crowd of 2,500 spectators.
In order to gain widespread recognition, the name of the event was changed to the “Go West with Greeley” Rodeo in honor of the city’s founder father Horace Greeley. Greeley was reported as saying “Go west young man. Go west.” By 1972, the rodeo became known as the Greeley Independence Stampede. In addition to PRCA competitions, activities included a kid’s rodeo, rock and country music concerts, a July 4 parade, a demolition derby, a carnival, a western art show and a variety of festival foods and merchandise vendors.
Festival Entertainment
Latin music fans will enjoy the Fiesta de Musica featuring performances provided by Luis Coronel and Polo Urias. The evening Super Stars Concert Series features concerts offered by country music performers Lady Antebellum, Chris Young, Thomas Rhett and Vince Neil from Motley Crue. On the 4th of July, more than 100 drivers will compete to survive the Demolition Derby. Guests are also welcome to take behind the chutes tours, enjoy the carnival and tour the Centennial Village Museum.
Greeley Stampede PRCA tickets are available from any Colorado King Soopers stores, at the Stampede Ticket Office or through www.greeleystampede.org. Ak-Chin Indian Community, Earnhardt Auto Centers and the Cowboy Lifestyle Network plan on broadcasting highlights from PRCA events and the country music concerts.
CLN Community & Event Sponsor
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