The Airdrie Pro Rodeo has been entertaining attendees for more than 50 years, but that doesn’t mean organizers are content to stick to the status quo.
Organizers are constantly updating events and activities to keep attendees returning year after year, says Lorie Young, a member of the Airdrie Rodeo Ranch Association, the not-for-profit organization behind the five-day event that runs from June 28 to July 2.
“We always want to maintain the entertainment value of the rodeo”
“We always want to maintain the entertainment value of the rodeo,” says Young.
This year, organizers are adding mini bronc events to their junior rodeo lineup on the last three days of the rodeo, giving youth the chance to compete in the saddle and bareback bronc events.
“It’s entertainment and part of something for the kids to do,” says Young, noting mutton busting, wild pony ride and steer riding events will still be on the junior rodeo schedule. “All they need for some of these events is a pair of runners and enthusiasm.”
The second annual Bull Bonanza is planned for June 28. Attendees at this exciting event will see a full night of bull riding, with 30 to 40 athletes taking part.
“If you love bull riding, it’s a perfect event,” says Young, noting many of the athletes will compete at the Calgary Stampede a week later.
Rodeo attendees will have the chance to take in more bull riding, as competitors will ride a second bull sometime over the next four nights. Points will be combined from both rides to determine the champion.
Each day, after the last bull is bucked, the party will get going with live music. The beer gardens will be open until 2 a.m. every morning.
After enjoying a night out with friends, attendees can head up to their campsites, located right on the rodeo grounds, or take a free shuttle back to Airdrie.
During the day, rodeo-goers can enjoy delicious fare from the food trucks at the grounds, enjoy the numerous children’s activities as a family, or take a chute tour.
These special tours are new this year and will give participants the chance to go behind the scenes at the Airdrie Pro Rodeo.
Tour guides will give an in-depth explanation of the equipment, terms and what the judges are looking for. Participants will see some of the rodeo stock and maybe even meet some of the cowboys and cowgirls who are competing.
So if you haven’t attended the Airdrie Pro Rodeo in recent years, check it out. You are guaranteed to have a blast while getting a glimpse into Airdrie’s western heritage.
Visit airdrieprorodeo.com for a complete schedule of events
