Since the late 1960s, volunteers with the Airdrie Pro Rodeo have worked hard to keep country traditions alive.
One of those volunteers is Rodeo marketing manager Lorie Young, a country girl at heart who has a deep connection within the community.
With the 2025 rodeo coming up June 29 to July 1, airdrielife asked Young what people can expect this year.
For one thing, she says, it’s not all about chutes, saddles and ropes. In fact, the party begins before the first horse is saddled.
“On June 27 [and] June 28, in the evening, we’re going to have a cabaret,” Young says, “We’re featuring [Airdrie-based country artist] Brandon Lorenzo. He played at the rodeo last year, and the crowd loved him.” The cabaret continues nightly each day of the rodeo, after the last bull bucks.
The popular beer gardens this year will feature a custom beer from Balzac Craft Brewing Co.
“This is [also] our third year for the marketplace,” says Young. “We have a variety of custom clothing, fashion accessories, tools, spices, and treats for men and women.”
A highlight of Saturday, June 28, will be the Family Fun Day.
“It’s a free … special event [for] children,” says Young. “They’re going to be doing some rodeo events that are catered to children. So, these kids are going to put on a show for us. [There will be] pole bending, peewee and junior barrel racing, breakaway roping, wild pony races, steer riding and mutton busting for the junior rodeo.”
But, of course, the main attraction is always the main rodeo.
“We have bareback saddle bronc, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, ladies’ barrel racing and boat riding,” says Young, adding a chute tour experience will also be offered.
“Don’t be afraid to put on the cowboy boots and the shirt and get a cowboy hat and come with an open mind,” she says. “You know dirt flies, but you’re that close, right? When you get dust on you, you get to see the cowboy or cowgirl’s expression and, before you realize, you’re cheering them on and you’re just as invested as they are.”
Young says many people don’t realize the level of commitment displayed by the competitors, male and female.
“[More people should know] how dedicated they are and how hard they work towards being healthy and fit,” she says, adding that behind the scenes involves a large amount of commitment, too. “A lot of the committees out there that put on these small-town rodeos are 100-per cent volunteers.
“Not a lot of people realize that we put in our own time for this, because it’s what we love to do.”
The Rodeo Grounds are located ten kilometres west of the city on Veterans Boulevard N.W. Shuttle service will also be available from the parking lots at Superstore, 300 Veterans Blvd. N.E., and Balzac Brewing Craft Brewing Company, 401 Coopers Blvd. S.W.
Visit airdrieprorodeo.com for more information and to order tickets. Admission for kids ten and under is free, and there will also be free parking on site.
