Now celebrating its 104th year, the Greeley Stampede is a top-20 Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association ProRodeo series event. Drawing the best rodeo athletes from around the country for exciting rodeo competition, the Greeley Stampede’s 12-day event serves up fun for over 220,000 attendees annually. Ready to check out this year’s rodeo, held June 24 – July 5? We’ve got the details.
The Spud Rodeo
Originally called the Spud Rodeo in honor of Greeley, Colo.’s local potato farmers, the Greeley Stampede was officially recognized as an annual celebration beginning in 1922. Those early events were one day only, featuring bicycle races, horse racing, pie-eating contests and more, and drew over 2,500 people. The Greeley community has continued this annual celebration, growing it year after year.
“What makes the Greeley Stampede special is our commitment to our community,” says Kevin McFarling, marketing manager. “Not only do we organize the event to celebrate our independence, we are celebrating our community.”
Getting There
McFarling says the best way to get to the Greely Stampede is on Highway 34, or Highway 85—the rodeo is located in the historic Island Grove Park.
What to Expect
In addition to the PRCA ProRodeo events, you can watch the Xtreme Bulls Tour, American Bull Fighting, and more.
Throughout the event, you can enjoy several arena concerts during the SuperStars series. This year features Nelly, Brothers Osborne, Jake Owen, Nate Smith, and Dierks Bentley.
“There are also other music stages throughout the park for no additional charge, including the Tasman Park Stage and the Local’s Stage,” says McFarling.
Each year in the Kids Korral attractions, you can find new entertainment along with the standards, such as face painting, a petting zoo, Sheep Stampede, and more.
You can also check out the carnival, the Stampede Demolition Derby, or any of the parades happening throughout the rodeo. The Western Art Show is a collaboration between the Greeley Stampede and the Greeley Art Association, and is open during park hours till 9 p.m. in the Island Groves Events Center lobby.
Can’t Make It?
You can watch the rodeo series broadcast through the Cowboy Channel.
How to Go
Head over to greeleystampede.com for info about the event or to purchase tickets.
This article appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of Western Life Today magazine. Click here to subscribe!
