Quick Info
When: Friday and Saturday nights, mid-June through mid-August. Where: Howelsen Hill Arena, downtown. Since: 1914—Colorado's longest-running rodeo series. Events: Bull riding, barrel racing, saddle bronc, calf roping.
Every summer Friday and Saturday night, Steamboat Springs hosts professional rodeo at Howelsen Hill. The series has been running since 1914—over a century of Western tradition in a town that still lives it.
This isn't a tourist show. Real PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) athletes compete for points and prize money. The ranching community shows up alongside tourists, giving the event an authentic atmosphere that staged rodeos can't replicate.
The Events
Bull riding: The main event. Eight seconds of controlled chaos as cowboys attempt to stay aboard 1,500+ pound bulls. The crowd favorite.
Saddle bronc: Classic rodeo. Cowboys demonstrate control and spurring technique on bucking horses. More technical than bull riding, equally dramatic.
Bareback bronc: Similar to saddle bronc, but without a saddle. Just a rigging handle and athletic ability keeping cowboys aboard.
Barrel racing: Speed and precision as cowgirls race horses around a cloverleaf barrel pattern. The fastest times win—milliseconds matter.
Calf roping: Cowboys chase, rope, and tie calves against the clock. Demonstrates ranching skills still used on working cattle operations.
Team roping: Two cowboys work together to rope a steer—one catches the head, one catches the heels. Coordination and horsemanship on display.
The Experience
Gates open around 6pm, with the rodeo starting at 7:30pm. Arrive early to grab good seats and soak up the pre-show atmosphere. Food vendors sell classic rodeo fare—burgers, corn dogs, funnel cakes.
The setting: Howelsen Hill Arena sits right downtown, with the ski jumps visible behind the arena. Mountain views and summer sunsets make for a memorable backdrop.
Family-friendly: The rodeo welcomes kids. Mutton busting (children riding sheep) is a crowd favorite. The atmosphere is wholesome—this is a community event, not a rowdy bar scene.
Local flavor: Many attendees are locals—ranchers, ski instructors, business owners. The rodeo is part of Steamboat's identity, not just a tourist attraction.
Tips
Buy tickets in advance. The arena holds around 2,000 people. Popular weekends (July 4th, Labor Day) sell out. Tickets available online or at the gate.
Bring layers. Summer evenings in Steamboat can be cool, especially once the sun sets. A jacket or fleece comes in handy.
Sit on the west side. The sun sets behind the ski jumps. Sitting west means you're not squinting into the light during the early events.
Stay for the whole show. Bull riding usually closes the evening. Don't leave early and miss the main event.
Combine with downtown. The arena is walking distance from Lincoln Avenue. Grab dinner downtown before or after the rodeo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a real rodeo or a tourist show?
Real. PRCA-sanctioned events with professional athletes competing for points toward national standings. Steamboat's series is respected in the rodeo community.
How much do tickets cost?
Generally $20-30 for adults, less for kids. VIP and box seat options available at higher prices. Check the official website for current pricing.
Is it family-friendly?
Very. Mutton busting for kids, no rowdy bar atmosphere, and a welcoming community vibe. Great for all ages.
What if it rains?
Rodeo goes on in light rain—this is Colorado, weather happens. Heavy storms may cause delays. No refunds for weather, but postponements are handled case by case.
Can I see rodeo other times of year?
The regular series runs summer only. Special events like the Winter Carnival may include some rodeo elements. Check the calendar for off-season events.