With the Superstition Mountains set as the backdrop, the Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo & Parade takes place the last weekend of February every year. The event is the largest rodeo and three-day event in the east valley of Phoenix, Arizona. Crediting the event for attracting over 30,000 visitors from around the world to the charming town of Apache Junction, it begs the question, how did this extraordinary event become such a beloved hometown attraction? I’m thrilled to share the story behind this beloved rodeo tradition, but first, let’s dive into where it all began.
Humble Beginnings
To truly appreciate Lost Dutchman Days, we need to travel back to November 1964. Apache Junction, nestled against the Superstition Mountains, was a burgeoning community deeply connected to its Old West heritage. The town’s history is rich with tales of gold prospectors, notably the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s gold mine, which added a mystical allure to the area.
At this time, the residents of Apache Junction were few, with the town being one of the furthest from the hub of Phoenix about 30 miles to the west. The town was a popular stopping point for travelers heading out of town towards Florence, Superior, Globe, and beyond. At one point, there was even a local zoo in town that travelers could stop in and visit during their short layover.
The date is November 27, 1964, and the Apache Sentinel Paper published a small 3-inch announcement in its issue for the first Lost Dutchman “Day”, that would take place on January 23, 1965. The inaugural event featured a variety of unique competitions, such as timed cowhide drag, boot and saddle partnership races, jackpot roping and team tying, and a $5 jackpot barrel race. These activities were complemented by a free pancake breakfast, an art show, a “Horse Picnic,” a barbeque, and a dance.
Initially, Lost Dutchman “Day” was a modest celebration, but its popularity with locals grew quickly. By 1971, the event had expanded into a multi-day festival, encompassing rodeo performances, parades, dances, and an array of family-friendly activities. This transformation marked the official birth of Lost Dutchman Days as we know it today.
Lost Dutchman Days Today
Fast forward to the present, and Lost Dutchman Days has evolved into a major event with a packed schedule. With the event taking place every February, the next dates for this event fall over February 21st-23rd, 2025. The festivities always kick off on Thursday, February 20th, 2025, with a Beer & Brat Party at the Apache Junction Elks Lodge. Then the following three days are filled with thrilling rodeo action starting at 1:30 pm each day. The weekend begins with a rodeo dance on Friday, February 21st, also at the Elks Lodge.
No rodeo would be complete without a carnival, vendors, and of course, a parade. The parade this year takes place on Saturday, February 22nd and the carnival rides and diverse vendor stalls ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy all weekend long.
It’s More Than a Rodeo
Lost Dutchman Days has always been about more than just entertainment. It’s a celebration of Apache Junction’s community spirit and a testament to the town’s dedication to preserving its Western heritage. Over the years, the event has moved between various locations, parade routes, and dance locations, but its core mission has remained the same: “to put smiles on kids’ faces”. All of the proceeds raised during the event go back to youth-serving nonprofits in the community. Last year, they raised over $200,000 that went right back into their community. They are one of the only organizations that raises such a large amount of money that stays within the town.
The growth and success of Lost Dutchman Days wouldn’t be possible without the tireless efforts of volunteers, local organizations, and city officials. Their dedication has transformed a small, one-day event into a premier celebration that far exceeds the dreams of its founders back in 1964.
Save the Date for the 2025 Event
This year, as we celebrate Lost Dutchman Days, I personally invite you to experience the excitement, the history, and the community spirit that make this event truly special. Come for the rodeo, stay for the parade, and enjoy all the festivities that Apache Junction has to offer. Let’s honor the tradition and look forward to many more years of celebrating the heart and soul of this remarkable town.
2025 Event Information
Dates: February 21st-23rd, 2025
Location: Apache Junction Rodeo Grounds, Apache Junction Arizona
Website: LostDutchmanDays.org
