If you’re a true cowboy or cowgirl in California, there’s nothing more exciting than the California Rodeo Salinas. This year’s edition, the 105th, will be held July 16-19 at the Salinas Sports Complex.
The largest pro rodeo in California, it’s also recognized as one of the top 20 rodeos in the United States. A long-time tradition for generations of rodeo fans, it’s also one of the most well-known rodeos around the world for its work with various charities. Each year, the California Rodeo Salinas is able to give back $200,000-$300,000 to local non-profit organizations, helping to provide scholarships and other forms of aid to deserving community members.

Rodeo Performances

This year’s rodeo will have evening performances Thursday and Friday at 6 p.m., plus daytime performances at 1:15 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. A number of popular events will be held to entertain fans, including:

• Bareback Bronc Riding
• Bull Riding
• Calf Roping
• Steer Wrestling
• Tie Down Roping

Along with these events that will thrill any cowboy or cowgirl, other special events and performers include The McMillin Family Trick Riders and Cowboy Kenny’s Steel Rodeo Tour. With over 50,000 people expected to attend the rodeo, it’s sure to be bigger and better than ever.

California Rodeo Salinas History

With such a rich tradition, this pro rodeo also offers an interesting history. The first rodeo, held in 1911, was known as the Wild West Show and featured Jesse Stahl, the most popular African-American cowboy of all-time. As the years progressed, the rodeo crowned its first queen, Bernice Donahue, and hosted a number of famous Hollywood stars including Will Rogers and Gene Autry. In later years, other stars such as Clint Eastwood and Amanda Blake, “Miss Kitty” from Gunsmoke, also dropped by to say hello.

Family Friendly Entertainment

Sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, this pro rodeo is also one of the most family-friendly events on the PRCA circuit.
One of the premier events for any cowgirl to enter is the Miss California Rodeo contest, where one’s personality and appearance can carry her to the title.
Along with its emphasis on community involvement, the rodeo will also hold special events for kids including:

• Mutton Busting
• Stick Horse Racing
• McDonald’s Kids Corral

With all this and more being offered over the four-day period, there’s little doubt this year’s edition of the California Rodeo Salinas will be bigger and better than ever.

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