Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo
May 14th – May 16th, 2026
Payson Event Center
1400 S Beeline Highway, Payson, AZ 85541
Payson Arizona’s rodeo reputation is well earned. Named the “Best Small Town in Rodeo” by True West Magazine in 2011, the community is home to the historic World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo each August and proudly hosts the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo every spring. The event draws crowds from across the state and beyond, making it one of the standout gatherings of the early rodeo season.
Set in the heart of heart of Rim Country, the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo continues to be a can’t‑miss event for both devoted rodeo fans and those experiencing it for the first time. Now in its 37th year, the 2026 rodeo once again brings excitement, tradition, and community pride to Payson. For many attendees, the weekend truly begins the moment they roll into Payson along the Beeline Highway and catch their first glimpse of the arena. It’s a familiar sight for those of us who return year after year, and a welcoming one for newcomers. Just a short 90‑mile drive from Phoenix, Payson offers the perfect mix of cooler weather, small‑town charm, and rodeo excitement.
Honoring Gary Hardt’s Legacy
Originally part of the National Old‑Timers Rodeo Association circuit, Payson’s spring rodeo was renamed the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo in 1987 to honor local cowboy Gary Hardt. Known for his skill in bull riding and roping, Hardt was a dedicated member of the Rodeo Cowboys Association and a respected figure in the community. Today, the rodeo continues to honor his legacy, with proceeds supporting local youth who excel academically and athletically.
“The Payson Pro Rodeo Committee is dedicated to keeping the Western Heritage and lifestyle alive in Rim Country through the production of the Annual World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo and the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo. We will use our 501(c)3 non-profit status to support the community by awarding scholarships to deserving senior high school students in the Payson Unified School District for both academic and vocational studies, plus make donations to local Rim Country breast cancer support groups, seniors, underserved children, and veteran’s groups.”
Payson Pro Rodeo
Mission Statement
Let’s Rodeo!
The Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo weekend is packed with events for every type of fan. Whether you’re planning to catch one night or enjoy the entire three‑day lineup, here’s a look at what’s happening each day at the 2026 Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo. Gates open at 5pm each evening with performances kicking off at 7pm.
Women’s Cactus Series Barrel Race | Thursday, May 14th
The weekend kicks off with fast‑paced barrel racing as top competitors run for leaderboard positions.
PRCA Rodeo (Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night) | Friday, May 15th
Guests are encouraged to wear pink in support of local breast cancer awareness programs. The evening features top rodeo athletes and high‑energy competition.
PRCA Rodeo (Patriot Night) | Saturday, May 16th
This special performance honors members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Active service members receive complimentary entry. With bulls, broncs, and a full slate of events, it’s a night packed with action.
Shop Til You Drop!
The rodeo grounds always have plenty to explore, with food and shopping vendors set up throughout the event. Guests can grab a bite from local favorites, pick up western gear, or browse handmade goods between performances. It’s an easy way to enjoy the atmosphere and support small businesses while taking a break from the arena action.
Tickets On Sale NOW!
Beat the heat and head to the pines for a memorable weekend in Payson!
Adults (16 & Up): $20
Children (5–15): $17
Children 4 & Under: FREE
Parking: $10
Thank You Sponsors
Special thank you to all sponsors for making this event possible. Saddle up, grab yourself a cold Coors, and join Cowboy Lifestyle Network for a celebration in Payson, Arizona.
Coors Banquet
Coors Banquet has been around for more than 150 years. They haven’t compromised their craft. You get what you give, and they’ve only given the best that they can brew. Banquet is brewed with 100% Rocky Mountain water, so when you’re enjoying a Banquet, you’re drinking history. Coors Banquet has been an amazing and loyal sponsor of professional rodeo since 1980. Their support runs deep for the inspiration and passion of rodeo cowboys. Coors Banquet has been the official beer of the PRCA since 1987 and is the sponsor for the Gold Rush Days & Senior Pro Rodeo. Coors Banquet launched its “Man in the Can” program in 1984. The program recognizes top barrelmen in ProRodeo for the uniqueness, determination, and passion that they display in the rodeo arenas all throughout the United States. Coors Banquet is dedicated to its fans with a grass-roots sponsorship of local rodeos as well as ingenious marketing. Next time you’re thirsty for a cold one, Make It a Banquet.
Wrangler
The Western Wear icon since 1947, Wrangler is an authentic American brand with a rich legacy rooted in the Western Lifestyle. The brand is the title sponsor of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and supporter of hundreds of western events across North America. From the greatest rodeo cowboys and cowgirls in the world, like Stetson Wright, JB Mauney, and Hailey Kinsel, to headlining country music artists, George Strait, Aaron Watson, Lainey Wilson, and Cody Johnson, Wrangler is the brand of choice for the biggest stars in the West. Long Live Cowboys! Long Live Cowgirls!
Last Updated on 04/20/2026 by Taryn Cantrell
About the Author:
CLN Community Sponsor
