With a name like “The World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo,” you know it’s bound to be good. For 142 years, the WOCR hasn’t missed a beat, bringing top-tier rodeo action to Payson, Arizona and proudly earning its title as “the best small-town rodeo in the world.” As the 2026 WOCR draws near, Cowboy Lifestyle Network is gearing up to head into the Arizona pines for another unforgettable summer of rodeo thrills, spills, and excitement.
The World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo
August 21st-August 22nd
1400 South Beeline Hwy
Payson, Arizona 85541
Payson Sets the Scene for Rodeo Fun
Set in the heart of heart of Rim Country, the World’s Oldest Continuous 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 142nd year, the 2026 rodeo once again brings excitement, tradition, community pride, and PRCA rodeo action 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.
“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
Ranch Rodeo
Join us for the Ranch Rodeo at the World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo, open to all riders, including those without PRCA cards. Come support local cowboys and cowgirls, along with competitors preparing for their future PRCA careers. Each event features $1,000 added money, 100 percent payback, and no admin fees.
It’s Not All Bulls and Broncs!
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.
If you’re ready to let loose and get your dancing on, don’t miss the after-rodeo dances on Thursday and Friday night. Western Fusion Band will be bringing the groove both evenings, keeping the energy high and the good times rolling long after the arena lights go down. It’s the perfect way to cap off a night of rodeo action!
World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo: 2026 Schedule
Saturday, August 15th | Rodeo Kickoff Dance
Event | 5pm
FREE
Macky’s Grill
Band – Moonshine Mafia
Wednesday, August 19th | Chamber Mixer
Event | 5pm-8pm
Registration Required | $30 per person
Dinner included with ticket purchase
Thursday, August 20th | Women’s Cactus Series Barrel Racing
Gates Open | 5pm
Performance | 6pm
Friday, August 21st | Wrangler Buckin’ Cancer Night
Gates Open – 5pm
Performance – 7pm
Friday, August 21st | World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo Dance
Begins following Friday evening rodeo performance
Free for Rodeo Attendees
$5.00 Cover Charge at the gate
Band – Western Fusion Band
Saturday, August 22nd | World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo Parade (From Frontier to Freedom: 250 Years of American Spirit)
Event | 9am
Main Street, Payson, AZ
Saturday, August 22nd | Pepsi Family Day
Gates Open – 11am
Performance – 1pm
Saturday, August 22nd | Patriot Night
Gates Open – 5pm
Performance – 7pm
Saturday, August 22nd | World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo Dance
Begins following Friday evening rodeo performance
Free for Rodeo Attendees
$5.00 Cover Charge at the gate
Band – Western Fusion Band
Parking
Parking is $10.00 cash per vehicle, payable upon entry at the Payson Event Center. Parking is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Handicap drop-off is available, just notify the parking attendants, and they will direct you. Please note that overflow parking will not be available at Mazatzal Casino. Overflow parking will be available at Payson High School for $5 and a shuttle service will be available 5pm-1am on Friday and Saturday evening to transport attendees to and from the rodeo grounds.
Tickets On Sale NOW!
Tickets are on sale now, so don’t miss your chance to secure your spot. Tickets are subject to availability and may not be offered at the gates, so it’s highly recommended to purchase online in advance. The World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo enforces a clear bag policy, so plan ahead! The show goes on rain or shine, so be sure you don’t miss this unforgettable piece of rodeo history!
Visit Cheyenne
Another small town that knows rodeo just as well as Payson is Cheyenne, Wyoming. When the Arizona heat gets a little too intense, head north to Cheyenne for a refreshing change of scenery and some world-class rodeo action. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a full vacation, Visit Cheyenne has everything you need to map out your trip and make the most of your time in this iconic wild west town.
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 Light & 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 07/31/2026 by Taryn Cantrell
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