Rooftop Rodeo History

The first Estes Park Rodeo was recorded in “The Mountaineer” local newspaper in 1908. Cowboys from across Colorado and neighboring states arrived to demonstrate their ranching skills and outdo each other in an event known as a bronco-busting contest. The festivities were scheduled to coincide with the 4th of July weekend and often included a Wild West Show. In 1941, the event became known as the Rooftop Rodeo, as Estes Park stands at an elevation of 7,500 feet above sea level. Thus, the festivities took place at the tallest elevation in the country. The tradition of having rodeo royalty also began in 1941. As actress Lana Turner was scheduled to be in the area during the “Frontier Days” events, she was nominated rodeo queen. However, prior commitments did not allow her to serve. She did honor the community by acting as Grand Marshall in the parade.

Estes Park Rodeo Events

Every evening at 7:00 P.M., the competition commences between the best Western athletes in the world. Cowboys will come up against some of the toughest horses and bulls provided by the Cervi Championship Rodeo stock contractor company in rough-stock and timed events. Spectators can expect to see:

• Bareback and saddle bronc riding

• Barrel racing

• Bull riding

• Steer wrestling

• Tie-down and team roping

The youngest of cowboys and cowgirls will compete each night before PRCA events being in the “cash catch” and the “mutton bustin'” competitions.

On Friday, July 6, all will venture to the downtown area for the annual Rooftop Rodeo Parade at 10:00 A.M. The procession includes elaborately decorated floats, rare vehicles and draft-hitched wagons along with various local organizations, rodeo royalty, clowns and more.

Estes Park Rodeo Tickets

Tickets for the PRCA events are available at the fairgrounds box office or online here. Spectators have the choice of:

• Box Seat & General Admission Tickets-$15 to $30

• Behind the Chutes Tour-$10, children aged 12 and younger-$5

•VIP Experience-$100