There’s an Old West heritage that runs deep in Colorado. For some cowboys and cowgirls, it’s a regular way of life. Others might just keep a hat and boots in the closet to break out for special events. That’s a good idea because there is a calendar full of events, gatherings and locations that celebrate or honor Western heritage. Summer is especially full thanks to rodeo season. The NFR Open at Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo is probably the most well known. You can read about it in Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Keeps the Western Spirit Alive. But it’s not the only rodeo in town. Here are seven of the best ways to get Western and enjoy rodeos in Colorado Springs.
Pikes Peak Special Rodeo
June 14
ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy
This free rodeo is perhaps the most inspirational event on the schedule. The 27th annual Pikes Peak Special Rodeo features competitors from two local therapeutic riding centers: the Colorado Springs Therapeutic Riding Center and StableStrides. All proceeds benefit those two organizations. Able-bodied kids can join the stick horse rodeo and Western dress-up contest.
Colorado Springs Western Street Breakfast
June 18
Downtown Colorado Springs
Free to attend, $5 for breakfast
Set your alarm and head downtown for this fun, festive and family-friendly event at Pikes Peak and Tejon, 5:30-9 a.m. It’s a great way to celebrate the start of rodeo season. The event is free, but it’s $5 for the hot, pancake breakfast. (Kids 5 and under eat free.) Proceeds support military service members and their families in the Pikes Peak region. Some of the activities include:
- Watch performances from the Flying W Wranglers, Exit West and Sweetwater Native American dancers.
- See the Pikes Peak Range Riders and Rangerettes head off on horseback at 8 a.m.
- Explore the Kids Corral, which includes a petting zoo, roping hay bale, gunslinger and trick roper.
Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Parade
July 5
Downtown
The rodeo rides into town with the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Parade. The Lil’ Cowpokes Stick Horse Races begin at 10 a.m. And the parade starts at 11 a.m. in downtown Colorado Springs.
NFR Open at Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo
July 8-12
Norris Penrose Event Center
See all the main rodeo action Tuesday through Saturday at 7 p.m. or at Friday and Saturday matinees at 12 p.m. But get there early for all the fun. Grounds open at 4 p.m. for evening performances and 10 a.m. for matinees. Get your insider’s guide in our Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Keeps the Western Spirit Alive.
Ride for the Brand Rodeo
Aug. 2
Norris Penrose Event Center
By day these cowboys and cowgirls work on ranches, sorting and moving cattle, starting colts, doctoring and branding calves. In the rodeo, they compete in events including Ranch Bronc Riding, Stray Gathering, Team Sorting and the fan favorites Wild Cow Milking and Trailer Loading. Stick around after the competition for the Dance in the Dirt with live music. Read more about it in Ride for the Grand Stampedes into Town.
ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy
This inspiring museum recognizes notable rodeo riders of the past and present and educates the public about rodeo, its history and impact on Western American culture. If you haven’t had a chance to visit, it’s absolutely worth the trip. It’s open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., in the summer. Guided tours of the museum are available Monday through Friday for any group size.
Flying W Ranch
The Flying W is an icon on the Westside of Colorado Springs. What began as a working cattle ranch has been hosting chuckwagon suppers since 1953 with entertainment and live music by the world-famous Flying W Wranglers. Its Chuckwagon Suppers are an excellent way to literally experience a taste of the West. They are served each year late May through mid-October, with special holiday dinner shows. Get a preview in our video and article Exploring History and Diversity in Colorado Springs.
See a full schedule of even more events celebrating the Western heritage of the Pikes Peak region year-round.
