The Reno Rodeo is always a big deal in Northern Nevada, but this year, it's 90th anniversary, is a bigger deal, as the rodeo expands to 10 days and offers even more excitement for rodeo fans.
Reno Rodeo Events
Throughout the 10-day run of the Reno Rodeo, fans can enjoy everything from the Bob Feist Invitational Team Roping Classic, to cutting horse competitions, invitational team roping for men and women, barrel racing, Xtreme bulls, and plenty of family oriented events. The kids compete in Mutton Bustin', where they attempt to corral unruly sheep, and there's a Special Kids Rodeo (SKR) that's one of the most popular rodeo events. It's open to special kids under 18 who suffer from physical and mental exceptionalities, and it takes place between 5 and 5:45 p.m. on the last three nights of the rodeo. For a complete schedule of events, click here http://www.renorodeo.com/content/view/144/167/
Free Rodeo Events
You don't always have to have a ticket for Reno Rodeo events; many are free and open to the public. For example, the Western States Drill Team Competition, which takes place beginning at 7 a.m. on June 17, is free to everyone, and the Reno Rodeo Invitational Amateur Team Roping with a $1 Million purse, which takes place beginning at 8 a.m. June 23, is also free to the public. Both events take place in the Indoor Arena at the Livestock Events Center on Wells Avenue.
The Reno Rodeo Parade
One of the long standing traditions surrounding the Reno Rodeo is the Reno Rodeo Parade, which takes place in downtown Reno along South Virginia Street to First Street, and then back down Center Street to Seventh Street. It takes place Saturday June 20, 2009 starting at 10 a.m. The parade includes mounted horse units, bands, floats, and a lot more, and it's a Reno favorite.
The Reno Rodeo Carnival
Another rodeo tradition is the carnival that always takes place on the fairgrounds surrounding the rodeo arenas. Enjoy traditional carnival rides from a Ferris wheel to spectacular thrill rides, along with carnival snacks and entertainment. You can buy tickets for the carnival at any Scolari's or Sak 'N Save in Reno and Sparks, and an unlimited ride pass is $16 (normally $26) as long as they last.
The Reno Rodeo Location
The Reno Rodeo takes place at the Reno Livestock Events Center, located at 1350 North Wells Avenue. There is parking available at the rodeo grounds, and there will be shuttles running from the parking lot for those who need special assistance.
Purchase Reno Rodeo Tickets
To purchase tickets, for ticket prices, and more information, call 800-225-2277. You can also purchase tickets locally at the Lawlor Events Center Box Office on North Virginia Street on the UNR campus. The ticket office hours are Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.