Snake River Stampede 2018
Nampa, Idaho
The Snake River Stampede that takes place in Nampa at the Ford Idaho Center from July 17 through July 21. More than 60,000 locals and guests attend the event, which marks its 103rd year in 2018. Western athletes from around the world arrive to compete in the PRCA events that offer $400,000 in winnings. The Snake River Stampede ranks in the top 10 of the hundreds of rodeos sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
History of the Snake River Stampede
The PRCA rodeo emerged from the annual Nampa Harvest Festival. The success of the event influenced the festival committee to add a bucking competition in 1913. The contest proved popular with spectators and continued each year through the 1920s. Every year, more competitions were added and initially included bulldogging and calf roping. By 1937, the rodeo became a separate event from the Harvest Festival and moved to July. All involved in the competition became part of the Rodeo Cowboys Association.
A new horseshoe-shaped stadium was constructed for the rodeo in 1950. That year, famous cowboy Gene Autry came to entertain the crowds. In the years that followed, Rex Allen, Roy Rogers and his wife Dale Evans along with the Sons of the Pioneers were also glad to provide the live entertainment.
During the 1970s and 80s, the headline acts included Barbara Mandrell, Glen Campbell and Reba McEntire. The entertainment for the 2018 event includes the Jeff Palmer Band who will perform on Friday night to give guests the chance to kick up their heels and dance in the dirt.
Events
In addition to the list of spectacular PRCA events, spectators will also cheer for the competitors during the Calf Scramble, the Rope and Run, the Mutton Bustin' and the Junior Rodeo. Bullfighters Jimmy Lee and Zach Call along with barrelman Matt Merritt will be on hand to display their antics while protecting all in the event arena.
The Rodeo Gives Back
The Snake River Stampede board supports a number of local organizations, which include the Exchange Club, the Kiwanis Club, the Lions Club and the Rotary. Several years ago, the organization developed the Stampeded for the Cure and raised more than $600,000 for the fight against breast cancer.
Stay tuned to the Cowboy Lifestyle Network for updates to all of the events. The Ak-Chin Indian Community and the Earnhardt Auto Centers Road Team will also cover the action live.
Tickets for the PRCA events are available at the Ford arena or here online. Admission prices range from $9.25 - $34.50.