The 80th Annual Santa Maria Elks Rodeo and Parade are set to happen from June 1st through June 4th! Taking place in the beautiful town of Santa Maria, California, it will feature four days of fun-filled activities and events. Each rodeo performance features Mutton Bustin’, six PRCA events including bull riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, team roping, bareback riding, and we can’t forget the ladies in the WRPA barrel racing and breakaway roping! This year, check out the specialty acts, including the Flying Cowboys, the junior breakaway roping, the Elks team roping, and more!
History
The Santa Maria Elks Rodeo has a long history and was formed by the B.P.O.E #1538. Before the rodeo existed, the Elks Recreation group’s first activity was a dance in December of 1943. From the great success of that event, the idea of a rodeo came to be, and in 1944, the first Santa Maria Elks Rodeo happened, which at the time was called the “Elks Recreational Foundation Benefit Wild West Show and Racing Meet.” From there, the event grew into the action-packed celebration it is today!
Parade
The event kicks off with the popular parade, which takes place on June 3rd. The parade is a highlight of the Santa Maria community, and people from all over come to watch the colorful floats, marching bands, equestrian units, and other participants. One of the main goals of the parade is to celebrate the history and diversity of the Santa Maria Valley. The parade promises to be even more exciting this year with new floats and participants.
PRCA Rodeo
Of course, the event’s main attraction is the professional rodeo, sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). The rodeo features a variety of exciting events with four nights of performances starting on June 1st. The performance kicks off at 7 pm on both Thursday and Friday. Saturday’s performance begins at 6 pm and Sunday’s starts at 2 pm. This year, the rodeo promises to be bigger and better than ever, with top-notch cowboys and cowgirls competing for prize money and bragging rights.
This year’s featured specialty acts are sure to provide even more thrill! Flying U Rodeo Co. is set to offer rodeo goers all of the action, adventure, and entertainment they expect. Charros, trick riders, mounted drill teams, clowns, horse acts, motorcycle daredevils, and more will get your heart racing and your hands clapping.
One of the unique features of this event is its focus on community involvement. The event is organized by the Santa Maria Elks Lodge, and proceeds from the rodeo support local charities and organizations. Over the years, the event has raised millions of dollars for various causes, such as children’s hospitals, veterans’ organizations, and scholarship programs.
Overall, this will be a fun-filled event that showcases the best of the Santa Maria community. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this annual event. So mark your calendar for June 1st through June 4th, 2023, and get ready for a great time!
CLN Community & Event Sponsor
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