Pendleton Round-Up History
On the 4th of July in 1909, the first Pendleton rodeo took place and featured competing cowboys, Native American and military presentations. The success of the event influenced the yearly continuation of the festival. However, it was decided to move the date to September in order to give farmers ample time to complete harvest and ranchers the chance to organize livestock.
Bull-riding fans have the chance to catch Pendleton PBR events before the Pendleton Round-Up begins. On Monday, September 11 through Tuesday, September 12, the Happy Canyon Arena presents the Banner Bank Pendleton PBR Classic. The Pendleton PBR events begin at 8:00 P.M. as cowboys attempt to ride powerful animals for eight seconds accompanied by pulsing music and special pyrotechnic displays.
For four days, PRCA cowboys and cowgirls will compete in eight thrilling events from 1:15 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. The competitions are interspersed with various special events and shows.
Along with the traditional Pendleton Round-Up events, spectators will also see the:
Men’s Indian Relay Race
Ladies and Indian Chiefs Race
Wild Cow Milking
Before the Pendleton Rodeo begins, the community begins celebrating. Main Street closes for the carnival and live concerts. Guests also have the chance to see Indian Pow-Wows, a Native American tipi village and visit vendor booths.
Round-Up Foundation Memorial Golf Tournament-Tuesday, September 12-Pendleton Country Club Proceeds from the event benefit the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund.
Dress-up Parade-Saturday, September 9-10:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.
Kick-off concert with Gary Allen and Tyler Rich-7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
Round-Up BBQ-Wednesday, September 13-5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Happy Canyon Night Shows– September 13, 14, 15 and 16-7:45 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
Children’s Rodeo-Thursday, September 14-10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.
Tough Enough to Wear Pink-Cowboys, cowgirls and spectators alike are encouraged to wear pink in order to raise awareness in the fight against breast cancer. Vendors will be on hand to sell pink accessories. The proceeds benefit ongoing cancer research.
Westward Ho Parade-Friday, September 15-10:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.
Tickets for the Pendleton Round-Up, concert and night shows are available by calling the box office at 541-276-2553 or 800-45-Rodeo (option 1 tickets). You can also obtain tickets at the box office located at 1114 SW Court Ave.
Purchase tickets online here.
Media Coverage
The Cowboy Lifestyle Network, Ak-Chin Indian Community, Earnhardt Auto Centers and Papa John’s Road Team will be on hand to provide continual event updates.
