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Fast Cars, Fearless Cowboys and Fun Festival: The Stillery Fest & CLN Bull Riding Experience at Phoenix Raceway

Get ready for one of the most exciting weekends of the year at Phoenix Raceway (Avondale, AZ) during March Cup Weekend. March 5-8, 2026! This year, fans won’t just enjoy world-class motorsports; we’re bringing bull riding, live entertainment, and unforgettable experiences to the action-packed spring race celebration.

Whether you’re a racing fan, a country lifestyle enthusiast, or just looking for a thrilling weekend out, this event is one you don’t want to miss.


The Main Event: 8 Seconds of Pure Terror and Triumph

Hold onto your hats, Arizona! Thursday, March 5th, and Friday, March 6th, the roar of the engines atΒ Phoenix RacewayΒ is getting a heartbeat. We’re taking the adrenaline of the track and slamming it together with the raw, bone-shaking power of bull riding!

This isn’t just a side-show; it’s aΒ standalone showdownΒ that captures the soul of the West. While the cars fly around the oval, the real battle happens when bullriding hits the campground dirt with 2 nights of impact. Whether you’re a die-hard rodeo fan or a racing nut looking for a shot of pure adrenaline, this is the high-octane escape you’ve been waiting for.

Photo by Prescott Courier Courtesy of Mile High PBR Prescott Valley Az on Facebook
Photo by Prescott Courier Courtesy of Mile High PBR Prescott Valley Az on Facebook

What to Expect

Feel the ground tremble as 2,000 pounds of fury explodes from the chutes. On Thursday and Friday nights at 7:30 PM, we’re bringing you a masterclass in courage.

Thursday Night (The Kickoff): The gates crack open for an evening of grit. Feel the power of the bulls at 7:30 PM, and as soon as the dust settles, grab a drink and hit the floor for the live energy of the Western Fusion Band.

Friday Night (The Post-Race Party): After the engines go quiet on the track, the campground comes alive. Bull riding starts at 7:30 PM, followed immediately by a star-studded showcase featuring Layla Tucker, daughter of the ’90s country legend Tanya Tucker, and local favorites Austin Burke, and Lacey Rashea.

Saturday Night (The Festival Finale): No bulls tonight, but plenty of bucking energy! Enjoy free festival and entertainment admission to shop with the vendors and dance the night away to the powerhouse vocals of Kristen Merlin at 7:30 PM. No cover, no bulls, just pure country vibes. Party late into the night with DJ Real.

All Weekend Long: The midway stays buzzing. Whether you’re soaring on the Ferris wheel, listening to DJ Real spinning the music tracks, learning a new move with Allie’s line dancing lessons, or showing off your skills at cornhole, there is never a dull moment.

Claim Your Turf: Tickets & VIP Perks

We’ve kept it simple: affordable entry for the family, or the best seat in the house for the true fans. Entry is free to the Festival, vendor shopping, and music entertainment.

Bullriding Ticket TypePriceThe Experience
General Admission$20Access to bull riding.
VIP Experience$40The Best Seat in the House. Includes a high-top table right by the chute gates plus exclusive VIP concert area access.

Pro Tip: Parking is FREE, so you can save your cash for the cold beer.

Kristen Merlin

The Festival Atmosphere

Between the rides and the rhythms, immerse yourself in a true Western carnival. This isn’t just an event; it’s a playground for the Western soul:

The Big Screen Events Lounge: Take a breather in our exclusive lounge area hosted by Big Screen Events. It’s the perfect hub to relax, catch up with friends, and soak in the festival energy between rides.

Line Dancing Lessons: Ready to shine on the dance floor? Head over to the lounge area and join Allie for professional line dancing lessons. Whether you’re a pro or have two left boots, she’ll have you ready for the night’s concerts in no time!

Picture Perfect Moments: Don’t leave without the proof! We have designated photo opportunity stations throughout the grounds. Capture the perfect shot with the riders, the massive Ferris wheel backdrop, or your whole crew in their best western gear to remember the weekend forever.

The Ferris Wheel: Take a break from the dirt and see the sprawling lights of the Phoenix Raceway and the entire festival from high in the sky.

Cornhole: Think you’ve got the best aim in the valley? Challenge your friends to a game of cornhole and see who really runs the campground.

Vendors Galore: Enjoy a variety of food and beverage vendors, or treat yourself to a new cowboy hat, authentic cowhide, or a find from a specialty boutique.

Vendor and Volunteer Opportunities:Β 

We are currently seeking vendors and volunteers to join this massive weekend event. Don’t just watch the crowd, be part of the action. If interested in becoming a vendor or a community service volunteer, please contact stilleryfest@gmail.com

Where to Secure Your Spot

Skip the lines! You can grab your bull riding tickets at theΒ entry gatesΒ on the day of the event, online, or pick them up in person at these official partner locations:

The Stillery Locations:

  • Phoenix (Happy Valley): 2501 W Happy Valley Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85085
  • Chandler: 130 S Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ 85225
  • Gilbert: 130 S Gilbert Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296

Duke’s Roadhouse:

  • Maricopa: 20928 N John Wayne Pkwy, Maricopa, AZ 85139

What to Bring

  • Your ID: This is a must. You’ll need it for check-in and, of course, to enjoy those signature Stillery Mason Jar cocktails.
  • Comfortable Boots: You’ll be on the “campground dirt” so wear shoes that can handle a little dust and a lot of dancing!
  • A Clear Bag (Pro Tip): While this is a standalone event, following the Raceway’s general security “clear bag” policy is always a safe bet for a smooth entry.
  • Portable Power: Between the slow-mo bull riding videos and the concert clips, your battery will drain fast. Bring a charger to stay connected!
  • Desert Layers: It’s Arizona! It’ll be 80Β°F at 4:00 PM and 55Β°F by the time the concert ends. Bring a denim or light jacket so you don’t have to leave the party early.
  • Cash/Card: Most vendors accept both, but having a little cash on hand is great for quick tips and small boutique finds.

Don’t miss a moment of this exciting event!

A Heritage of Hospitality: About The Stillery

Born in the heart of Nashville’s Music City in 2015, The Stillery was founded on a simple but powerful idea: that great food and live music should go hand-in-hand every single night. In 2020, Arizona natives and founders Steve Kovach and Steve Sargent brought that authentic Nashville spirit back home to the Valley.

The Stillery has become a local legend for its mason jar cocktails, world-famous Hot Chicken Mac & Cheese, and its commitment to being a premier venue for live country talent. When you join us at the Raceway, you’re experiencing a piece of that “Music City” magic, built on years of Southern hospitality and a passion for the stage.

The Pulse of the West: About Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN)

As a proud partner of this event, Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN) is the online hub for the modern Western enthusiast.Founded in 2010 by the O’Donnell brothers, CLN was created with a mission to bridge the gap between rural traditions and the digital world.

Whether it’s reporting from the NFR or showcasing local bull riding jackpots, CLN is dedicated to “Clicking On and Hanging On” to the heritage of the West. They are the storytellers of the rodeo world, ensuring the spirit of the cowboy lives on through every photo, video, and heart-pounding event like this one.

The dirt is calling. The stage is set. See you at the chutes!

β€œThe Stillery is hands down one of the best spots in the Valley for great food, cold drinks, dancing, and top-tier live country music. It’s where good times and great vibes come together every night.”

Danny O’Donnell
CLN Chief Social Officer & Co-Founder

Bring your friends, family, and cowboy boots! This is more than a race; it’s an experience you’ll be talking about all year.

More Race Weekend Information

Note: Bull riding tickets are separate from NASCAR tickets. You can attend just the bull riding event without a race ticket.

Daily & Series Tickets

  • ARCA Menards Series (March 5) tickets are available from approximately $19+.
  • GOVX 200 + IndyCar Doubleheader (March 7) tickets starting around $39+.
  • NASCAR Cup Series – Straight Talk Wireless 500 (March 8) tickets start around $63–$68+, depending on seat location.

Tip: Prices can vary based on seating (grandstand, hillside, premium) and purchase platform. High-demand seats may be higher on resale markets. 

Thursday, March 5, 2026

  • ARCA Menards Series Action – kicking off the weekend with emerging racing talent.
  • NASCAR Cup Series – Straight Talk Wireless 500 – see top Cup drivers go head-to-head in an adrenaline-charged showdown. 

Friday, March 6

  • Qualifying & Practice Activities – practice and qualifying sessions for NASCAR & IndyCar, including garage access and open gates, are expected on Friday and are typically included with multi-day tickets or available at the track.

Saturday, March 7, 2026

  • NTT INDYCAR Good Ranchers 250 – open-wheel stars return to Phoenix Raceway for the first time since 2018, creating a historic doubleheader weekend.
  • NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series GOVX 200 – rising stars battle it out around the oval.

Sunday, March 8, 2026

  • ARCA Menards Series (March 5) tickets are available from approximately $19+.
  • GOVX 200 + IndyCar Doubleheader (March 7) tickets starting around $39+.
  • NASCAR Cup Series – Straight Talk Wireless 500 (March 8) tickets start around $63–$68+, depending on seat location.

Experience Enhancements

  • Desert Diamond Casino Infield Experience adds access to the pit and garage areas with a grandstand or hillside ticket.
  • Busch Light Lounge Hospitality offers premium food, drinks, and entertainment added to your race day.
  • Luxury Suites, Curve Club, VIP Packages elevated race-watching with exclusive amenities (prices vary).Β 

Camping & Weekend Passes

  • Camping Options (RV, glamping) are popular for the full weekend vibe with easy access to festivities.
  • Multi-day packages are often more economical for those planning to enjoy practice days, qualifying, and all main events.

Make this March Cup Weekend one you’ll never forget, where speed meets spirit, and horsepower meets heart. Be sure to follow Cowboy Lifestyle Network and Stillery Fest on social media for a chance to win bull riding tickets! See you at the races!Β 

Last Updated on 02/16/2026 by Fernando Rosas Suarez

About the Author:

Biography:

Howdy, y'all! My name is Fernando Rosas Suarez. I am a dedicated and enthusiastic professional with a passion for cultivating engaging experiences. Currently serving as a Box Office Team Member at Comedy Mothership in Austin, Texas. Since 2024, I have been an integral part of the Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN), where I leverage my linguistic skills to translate articles and provide event coverage, now expanding my role as a contributing writer. Originally from Mexico City, I have lived in Austin for nine years, deeply embracing and contributing to the vibrant local culture.

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