Gilbert Days Rodeo 2026

If you’re anything like me, there will always be one rodeo you hold near and dear to your heart. Whether you were a wide‑eyed kiddo watching from the stands, sprinting to the cook shack for a tasty treat, a teen helping push cattle and work the gate, or serving a rodeo queen title, there’s always that one rodeo, maybe even your first, that stays with you forever. For me, that’s the Gilbert Days Rodeo!

Gilbert Days Rodeo
November 20th, 21st & 22nd
Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre
20464 E. Riggs Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85142

As Gilbert, Arizona continues to grow, develop, and thrive, one piece of the town’s Wild West past has remained true: the annual Gilbert Days Rodeo. Formed in 1978 by a group of local businessmen, entrepreneurs, and western‑lifestyle enthusiasts, the Gilbert Promotional Corporation was born, and with it, 48 years of family fun, adrenaline-fueled rodeo thrills, impressive turnout, and hometown pride. Entirely volunteer‑run, the rodeo is back and better than ever for 2026.

Let’s Rodeo!

The Gilbert Days Rodeo proudly serves as a stop on the Grand Canyon Professional Rodeo Association (GCPRA) circuit. Year after year, it brings top‑notch rodeo and equine talent to the arena, making it a must‑see for both seasoned rodeo fans and newcomers. Whether 2026 is your first Gilbert Days Rodeo or your thousandth, you’re in for a weekend packed with family fun.

Gilbert Days Performance Schedule
November 19th Junior Rodeo | 6:30 pm
November 19th Gilbert Days Classic Roping | Books Open at 6:00 pm, Event Begins at 7:00 pm
November 20th GCPRA Performance | 7:00 pm
November 21st GCPRA Performance | 5:00 pm
November 22nd GCPRA Performance | 2:00 pm

Gilbert Days Junior Rodeo

For the first time in Gilbert Days history, the Gilbert Promotional Corporation is hosting the Gilbert Days Junior Rodeo! This special event highlights the skills of the youngest cowboys and cowgirls in the family. Events include Peewee and Junior Barrel Racing, Youth and Junior Bull Riding, ground events like Goat Tying and Ribbon Pulling, and even a special Rodeo Queen Barrel Race.

Gilbert Days Junior Rodeo
November 19th, 2026 | 6:30 pm
Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre
20464 E. Riggs Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85142

More than Bulls & Broncs!

Gilbert Days is more than just a rodeo, it’s a celebration of heritage, community, and family fun. Here are a few of the can’t‑miss attractions:

The Gilbert Days Pony Express

Kicking off the festivities is the annual Gilbert Days Pony Express, held November 14th and 15th. This living tribute to the Old West takes riders city to city delivering mail in a reenactment of frontier tradition. After a ceremonial send‑off in Gilbert, the route winds through Arizona, with riders trading off the symbolic mail saddlebag. The first night ends with dinner and a campout at the Casa Grande Rodeo Grounds; day two includes participation in the Florence Parade. This longstanding tradition honors Gilbert’s past while inspiring future generations.

Lil’ Dudes Rodeo

Before the main rodeo each day, the youngest wranglers get their moment to shine during the Lil’ Dudes Rodeo. Kids ages 4–5 and 6–7 can try their hand at the crowd‑favorite event, Mutton Bustin’.

Lil’ Dudes Rodeo Sign‑Up Times
Friday, November 20th | 4 pm
Saturday, November 22nd | 2 pm
Sunday, November 23rd | 11 am

Live Music & Entertainment

Rodeo isn’t the only excitement on the grounds! Food and drink vendors will keep you fueled, while artisan booths offer handcrafted goods perfect for browsing or gift‑giving. After Saturday night’s performance, the party continues with the Gilbert Days After Party & Concert, and the best part? It’s completely FREE. Bring the whole family and dance the night away to live music by the Josh Roy Band.

Rodeo Halftime Entertainment

Rider and Bethany Kiesner return to the 2026 Gilbert Days Rodeo for three days of jaw‑dropping stunts, trick riding, trick roping, and more. This world‑renowned duo never fails to impress, so make sure to catch them during one of the rodeo performances.

We Can’t Wait to See You There!

In a town that continues to grow and evolve, the Gilbert Promotional Corporation has beautifully preserved the charm of Gilbert’s simpler past while breathing fresh energy into its future. Thanks to their dedication, the legacy of rodeo lives on, not just as an event, but as a cherished tradition woven into the heart of our community. We hope you’ll join Cowboy Lifestyle Network and the Gilbert Promotional Corporation at this year’s Gilbert Days Rodeo!

Last Updated on 10/28/2026 by Taryn Cantrell

About the Author:

Taryn Cantrell

Biography:

Taryn Cantrell is an Arizona native with a lifelong connection to the rodeo arena. From her roots in barrel racing to her role as the 2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen and her involvement with the Cowgirls Historical Foundation, Taryn celebrates her western heritage with enthusiasm and authenticity. Taryn holds a degree in Vocal Performance from Arizona State University, allowing her to merge her passion for music with her love of cowboy culture. As a singer and bassist, Taryn performs with bands across Phoenix and beyond including Great American Regret, Honey Marie Knight, and Sareena Dominguez. Taryn is passionate about blending her diverse interests to offer an authentic and engaging perspective on journalism. Her goal is to connect readers to the events, concerts, and celebrations that matter most, bringing them closer to the experiences she treasures. Whether you’re attending your very first rodeo or adding another to your collection of memories, Taryn is here to guide you every step of the way!

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