Prescott Frontier Days Rodeo 2020: World’s Oldest Rodeo

On June 29, 2020, Prescott Frontier Days begin along with the annual Prescott Rodeo 2020. This year marks 133 for the PRCA event, which is billed as the “World’s Oldest Rodeo”. Tens of thousands come from the state, across the country and around the world to attend the festivities and experience the heart-stopping thrills of the eight Pro Rodeo performances. And we are beyond blessed that the PFR Committee has decided to move forward with this year’s event despite everything going on.

History of the World’s Oldest Rodeo

The first rodeo was organized by local business professionals and took place on July 4, 1888. The event provided the opportunity for local cowboys and ranchers to demonstrate their skills to the public. Participating winners were awarded cash prizes. Unlike today, the old-time events played out on a simple barren tract of land in Forbing Park. Designated areas were sectioned off with ropes to contain livestock and establish the perimeter of the arena.

By 1913, the Yavapai County Fair Association named the festivities Prescott Frontier Days. The term “rodeo” is Spanish for “roundup” and was not associated with the Western activities until 1916. In order to attract larger crowds celebrity cowboys, which included Tom Mix and Will Rogers often attended the PRCA events.

Prescott Rodeo 2020 Events

The World’s Oldest Rodeo is sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy’s Association or PRCA. Performances include both judged and timed events. Cowboys and cowgirls compete against one another for the highest score or the shortest time. Top athletes walk away with cash prizes and commemorative belt buckles. Each of the eight Pro Rodeo performances includes:
• Bareback riding
• Saddle bronc riding
• Bull riding
• Steer wrestling
• Tie-down roping
• Team roping
• Barrel racing

Rodeo Performance Schedule

Gates open two hours prior to each performance and we encourage our guests to come early, shop, eat and enjoy!

Performance #1 – Monday, June 29, 2020 – 7:30 PM

Performance #2 – Tuesday, June 30, 2020 – 7:30 PM

Performance #3 – Wednesday, July 1, 2020 – 7:30 PM

Performance #4 – Thursday, July 2, 2020 – 7:30 PM

Performance #5 – Friday, July 3, 2020 – 7:30 PM

Performance #6 – Saturday, July 4, 2020 – 1:30 PM

Performance #7 – Saturday, July 4, 2020 – 7:30 PM

Performance #8 – Sunday, July 5, 2020 – 1:30 PM

Additional Activities

Rodeo Dance: July 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, 2020
Time: 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Location: Depot Marketplace, BMO Harris Bank parking lot
Band: Lonesome Valley

Prescott Frontier Days® Inc. Rodeo Parade
2020 Parade Theme: History Lives Here

Downtown Prescott – Courthouse Plaza
July 4, 2020 – 9 AM

Happy Hearts Rodeo for Exceptional Children

Date: June 29, 2020

Location: Prescott Rodeo Grounds

This special event began back in the early 1980s when the wife of a PRCA cowboy came up with the idea to offer exceptional children a first-hand experience at rodeo. In partnership with the PRCA, the idea became a reality and Prescott Frontier Days^®, Inc. has been honored to be involved every year.  All rodeo events are modified and take place on the ground so each contestant can participate. All participants are treated to a cowboy dinner and the kickoff-rodeo performance. – In partnership with the PRCA and Horses With Heart: VISIT WEBSITE

Arts and Crafts Show

Date: July 3-5, 2020
Time: 9 am – 5 pm

Location: Downtown Prescott – Courthouse Plaza

Cowboy Church

Date: July 5th, 2020
Time: 9:00 AM

Location: Prescott Rodeo Grounds