Where to See an Idaho Rodeo This Summer

To experience some of the spirit of the Wild West, take your family to a rodeo. These iconic contests of horsemanship and showmanship personify the cowboy culture, and family travelers in Idaho have several opportunities to join in the spectators’ excitement.

The oldest of Idaho’s – and the nation’s – rodeos is the War Bonnet Round Up in Idaho Falls, which runs July 30–Aug. 2. Arrive early for the free Rodeo Kick-off on July 30, a family-friendly mini rodeo with food and western-themed activities.

That Famous Preston Night Rodeo in Preston (July 31–Aug. 2) got its name and its fame for being the first U.S. rodeo under lights. Stay a spell and enjoy the small-town charm of its nightly rodeo parades, chuckwagon breakfast and sidewalk sales.

The Snake River Stampede, taking place in Nampa from June 17 to 21, is one of the top-rated Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association events in America, with five days of heart-stopping action. Relax after the excitement at the Stampede Wine Down with live music, food and artisan vendors.

Kids will want to watch two unique features of the Snake River Stampede: the Junior Rodeo and Mutton Busting. The first gives young riders a chance to compete with others of their own age, developing skills that may take them into the professional competition circuit.

Mutton Busting is an event where children 5–7 years old and under 55 pounds try to ride bareback on a sheep, trying to hang on for eight seconds. Entrance is by lottery, so your young bronco buster could be one of them.