The Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West: Reno Rodeo 2025
When the summer sun begins to warm the Sierra Nevada mountains and the scent of sagebrush fills the air, rodeo fans across America know it's time for one of the most anticipated events on the PRCA calendar—the legendary Reno Rodeo. Set to buck, race, and thrill from June 20-28, 2025, at the Reno Livestock Events Center, the upcoming edition promises to continue a tradition of world-class competition that has made this event a cornerstone of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association's summer run.
A Legacy Written in Silver and Gold
The story of the Reno Rodeo is woven into the very fabric of Nevada's history. Born in the spirit of the West, this PRCA-sanctioned event has evolved from humble beginnings to become what many call "The Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West." The Silver State's premier rodeo has been a proving ground for countless champions, a celebration of western heritage, and an economic engine for the Reno-Sparks region.
As the rodeo approaches its performance dates in 2025, it continues to honor the traditions that have made it special while embracing innovations that keep the sport relevant for new generations of fans. With a staggering $560,000 purse on the line, the competition draws the elite of rodeo—cowboys and cowgirls who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of rodeo excellence.
Where Champions Are Made
The 2025 Reno Rodeo will showcase all seven PRCA-sanctioned events, each a test of skill, courage, and the special partnership between human athletes and animal athletes.
Bareback Riding – Perhaps the most physically demanding event in rodeo, bareback riders grip a simple handhold as they match their strength and technique against the raw power of specially bred bucking horses. For eight seconds, these cowboys endure a punishing ride that tests every muscle in their bodies.
Steer Wrestling – Known as the "big man's event," steer wrestling is a display of timing, strength, and coordination as cowboys leap from horseback onto a running steer, using technique and leverage to bring the animal to a halt.
Team Roping – The only true team event in rodeo pairs a header and heeler in a precision demonstration of roping skills, as they work to catch and secure a steer in the fastest possible time.
Saddle Bronc Riding – Often called rodeo's classic event, saddle bronc riding evolved directly from the tasks of breaking and training horses on working ranches. Today's bronc riders combine strength with grace as they try to make a wild ride look smooth and controlled.
Tie-Down Roping – A test of speed and accuracy, tie-down roping requires cowboys to catch a calf from horseback, dismount, and secure three of the animal's legs with a pigging string—all while the clock ticks mercilessly.
Barrel Racing – The women of professional rodeo take center stage in barrel racing, where horse and rider become one in a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. With times measured to the hundredth of a second, there's no room for error in this race against the clock.
Bull Riding – The most dangerous eight seconds in sports closes each performance, as cowboys attempt to ride one ton of twisting, bucking muscle and horn. It's man versus beast in its most primal form, and the crowd never fails to rise to its feet.
Beyond these main events, the Reno Rodeo delights fans with specialty acts that showcase the lighter side of western entertainment. Rodeo clowns—part athlete, part comedian, part bullfighter—keep the crowd laughing while providing critical protection for fallen cowboys. The ever-popular Mutton Bustin' gives the youngest cowpokes a chance to show their stuff as they cling to the backs of running sheep, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Securing Your Spot at the Action
The 2025 Reno Rodeo is expected to continue its tradition of selling out performances, making advance ticket planning essential for rodeo enthusiasts. Tickets for this premier event will go on sale around April 20, 2025, and rodeo fans are encouraged to mark their calendars.
The Reno Rodeo offers various ticketing options to suit different preferences and budgets. Single performance tickets allow fans to select specific dates, while season ticket packages provide access to the entire nine-day extravaganza. For those seeking an elevated experience, premium seating and box seats offer the best views of the arena action.
Group tickets make the rodeo an ideal outing for organizations, businesses, or extended families, while special considerations for children make this a family-friendly event accessible to all ages. The rodeo also offers accessible seating options to ensure all fans can enjoy the excitement.
When tickets become available, fans can purchase them right here on this page. Given the rodeo's popularity and limited seating capacity at the Reno Livestock Events Center, early purchase is strongly recommended. The most coveted performances—particularly weekend events and the championship finals—typically sell out quickly.
The Arena Experience
The Reno Livestock Events Center transforms into rodeo's grand stage each June, with an arena configuration designed to provide excellent viewing from every section. The venue's intimate setting ensures that fans feel the thunder of hooves and can see the determination on competitors' faces, creating an immersive experience that television simply cannot capture.
The arena comes alive with the sights, sounds, and sensations that make rodeo a multi-dimensional experience. The scent of arena dirt mingles with leather and livestock. The announcer's voice rises above the crowd as he introduces each competitor and explains the nuances of the events. The crowd collectively holds its breath as a rider nods for the gate, then erupts in applause for a successful ride.
Beyond the Competition
The Reno Rodeo is far more than just a sporting event—it's a cultural celebration that extends beyond the arena walls. The grounds surrounding the venue become a western village during rodeo week, with vendors offering everything from custom boots to handcrafted jewelry. Food vendors serve up western favorites alongside local specialties, ensuring no one goes hungry.
Families will find plenty to keep younger cowboys and cowgirls entertained, with interactive exhibits and activities designed to educate and engage the next generation of rodeo fans. Each evening, the excitement continues with after-rodeo entertainment that keeps the western spirit alive well into the night.
Community Impact
The economic impact of the Reno Rodeo ripples throughout the region, filling hotel rooms, restaurants, and local businesses with visitors from across the country. But perhaps more importantly, the rodeo maintains a strong tradition of giving back to the community through charitable contributions that support local youth programs, western heritage preservation, and community development initiatives.
Volunteer opportunities abound for community members who want to be part of this iconic event. From arena operations to hospitality, hundreds of dedicated volunteers work behind the scenes to ensure the rodeo's success, forming a rodeo family that reunites year after year.
Planning Your Reno Rodeo Adventure
For first-time attendees, the Reno Rodeo offers a perfect introduction to the sport. The event strikes an ideal balance—authentic enough to satisfy lifelong rodeo fans while remaining accessible to newcomers. First-timers are encouraged to arrive early to explore the grounds, watch the pre-performance activities, and soak in the atmosphere.
When packing for the rodeo, consider Nevada's variable June weather. Days can be warm, while evenings cool significantly once the sun sets behind the Sierra. Layered clothing, comfortable footwear, and western hats (which serve the dual purpose of sun protection and western style) are recommended. Don't forget the sunscreen for afternoon performances!
Reno offers accommodation options ranging from casino resorts to family-friendly hotels, many offering special rodeo packages during the event. The city's compact layout makes it easy to find lodging within a reasonable distance of the arena.
The Countdown Begins
As the calendar turns toward June 2025, anticipation builds for nine days of world-class rodeo action. The PRCA's top athletes are already mapping out their summer runs, with Reno circled as a must-compete destination. Stock contractors are selecting their premier bucking stock, knowing that Reno demands their very best.
For fans, the Reno Rodeo represents rodeo at its finest—a perfect blend of competitive sport, western tradition, and community celebration. Whether you're a seasoned rodeo enthusiast who can predict the score before the buzzer or a curious newcomer experiencing your first bucking bronc, the Reno Rodeo welcomes you to be part of a western tradition that continues to captivate generation after generation.
When the chute gates swing open on June 20, 2025, be there to witness the continuation of a Nevada legacy—where the spirit of the West is not just remembered but lived, breathed, and celebrated in all its dusty, determined glory.
The 2025 Reno Rodeo runs June 20-28 at the Reno Livestock Events Center. Tickets will be available for purchase on this page when they go on sale around April 20, 2025.