The Fourth of July is almost here, and there’s no better way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than at a rodeo, the Livingston Roundup Rodeo to be exact. Heading into its 102nd year, this historic event returns July 1–4 with four action-packed nights of rodeo competition, western heritage, and small-town Americana at its finest.
Livingston Roundup Rodeo 2026
July 1–4, 2026
Park County Fairgrounds
46 Vista View Drive
Livingston, MT 59047
Rich Montana History
The Livingston Roundup traces its roots back to 1926, when a group of local businessmen set out to create an event that would encourage travelers to stay in town a little longer during the summer season. Their vision became the Livingston Roundup Rodeo, a celebration of western heritage that quickly grew into a cherished community tradition.
In the late 1940s, a young Livingston resident approached a local businessman with an ambitious idea: revive the Roundup and bring the excitement back to town. The revival gained momentum, and in 1952 the Livingston Roundup earned professional rodeo status through the Rodeo Cowboys Association (RCA), the organization that would later become the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA).
More than seven decades later, the rodeo remains one of Montana’s premier Independence Day traditions, carrying forward a legacy that began with a simple idea and a community determined to keep it alive.
“The history of the Livingston Roundup was built by this community. Without the local residents that make Park County such a great place, this rodeo wouldn’t be what it is today. We are honored to carry on the tradition.”
Livingston Roundup Rodeo committee
The First Gateway to Yellowstone National Park
Start with a walk through downtown Livingston, where you’ll find unique shops, Western outfitters, and local art galleries. The Yellowstone Gateway Museum offers a fascinating look at the region’s railroad, ranching, and Native American history, while the Livingston Depot Center – housed in a beautifully restored 1902 train station – showcases the town’s important role in the development of the Northern Pacific Railway.
Outdoor adventures are never far away. Anglers can cast a line in the legendary Yellowstone River, one of the nation’s premier trout fisheries, while hikers and sightseers can head south into Paradise Valley for stunning views of Emigrant Peak and the Absaroka Mountains. A stop at Chico Hot Springs is a favorite among visitors looking to soak and relax after a night at the rodeo.
Wildlife lovers can make the scenic drive through Paradise Valley to Gardiner and Yellowstone National Park’s North Entrance, where opportunities abound to spot bison, elk, pronghorn, and even bears. If you’re looking for an unforgettable Fourth of July road trip, combine a night at the Livingston Roundup with a day exploring Yellowstone, soaking in a hot spring, or floating the Yellowstone River for a true Montana summer experience.
See you in Big Sky country! I can’t think of a better way to spend America’s Semiquincentennial than at an event that truly celebrates the spirit of the American West.
Wrangler Promotion
Looking as sharp as the cowboys in the arena just got a whole lot easier. Wrangler is running an exclusive rodeo-season promotion at local stores. For a limited time, you can score Buy 2, Get 1 Free on Wrangler jeans and grab a $10 rebate on shirts. Mark your calendar and swing by your local retailer to lock in these savings!
About the Author:
CLN Community Sponsor
