If you ever find yourself in the hills of Southwestern Iowa, Sidney is a quintessential stop. Known for its friendly atmosphere, welcoming community, and most of all, 101 years of Championship Rodeo, this is a must-add to your rodeo bucket list. With a population of just over 1,000, Sidney might not have the largest rodeo, but you can’t beat the amount of local pride that goes into each and every event. Each year during the event, the town sees over 38,000 visitors from around the country, which ranks the event in the top 12% of the nearly 800 rodeos approved by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
In 1923, the Tackett brothers, Henry and Earl, returned to Sidney, Iowa, from Wyoming with a vision to entertain visitors attending the Old Soldiers Reunion. To bring a taste of the wild west to Sidney, they formed a makeshift arena using Model T cars and temporary fencing. The brothers showcased their rodeo skills on the wildest horses they could find, earning $50 and numerous bruises in the process.
Recognizing the potential of this thrilling spectacle, the Sidney Legion Post 128 quickly took over sponsorship and transformed it into an annual public event. Initially, the rodeo featured a small grandstand and was free of charge. Each year, the Legion would travel to South Dakota to purchase bucking broncos, while bulls were sourced from Texas and Mexico. They also maintained several quarter horses in Sidney year-round. Within five years, the rodeo’s popularity soared, prompting the introduction of a small admission fee, the construction of a larger grandstand, and the inclusion of professional cowboys, trick riders, and animal acts. Early rodeos even featured Native American tribesmen in full regalia, often from the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota. By 1931, lighting was installed in the arena, allowing for night shows. After 1952, professional contractors began providing top-grade livestock for the event.
These days, the grounds are some of the best in the state and they have seen several generations of cowboys and cowgirls trying their hand at winning the championship title.
While Sidney Rodeo has traditional events like bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling, they also have other family events such as mutton busting, a rodeo parade, special entertainment during the rodeo and so much more. Beyond the high-stakes competition, there is a deep respect for the traditions of the past and an excitement for what the future holds for this favorite hometown event.
The Sidney Rodeo is more than just a rodeo, it is the cornerstone of the community. For the residents of Sidney, the rodeo is an annual reunion, a time when the town’s population swells as friends, family, and visitors pour in. Local businesses thrive during rodeo week, and the economic boost is significant, but the true impact is felt in the sense of unity and pride it fosters among locals.
Of course, the event wouldn’t be what it is without its volunteers, many of whom have been involved for decades. They work tirelessly throughout the year to ensure the event’s success. Doing everything from prepping the arena to coordinating events, their dedication is a testament to the rodeo’s place in the town’s heart. So make sure when you visit that you thank a volunteer or committee member, but they are the ones making the magic happen.
In an era where much of our entertainment is digital and transient, the Sidney Rodeo stands as a beacon of tradition and authenticity. It reminds us of the values that built America: hard work, perseverance, and a love for the land and its creatures. For those who attend, whether as participants or spectators, the rodeo offers a glimpse into a world where the past and present coexist, and where the cowboy spirit is alive and well.
As Sidney prepares for yet another year of rodeo, the excitement is palpable. The town is ready to welcome visitors with open arms, eager to share its cherished tradition. For Sidney, Iowa, the rodeo is not just an event; it is a way of life. And as the cowboys mount their steeds and the crowds cheer, one thing is certain – the legacy of the Sidney Iowa Championship Rodeo will continue to thrive, inspiring future generations to embrace the cowboy spirit and the timeless allure of the American West.
2024 Event Information
- Tuesday, July 30th
- Wednesday, July 31
- Thursday, August 1
- Friday, August 2
- Saturday, August 3
Date: July 30th – August 3rd, 2024
Location: Sidney, Iowa
Website: SidneyIowaRodeo.com
