Top 12 Rodeos Every Fan Should See

If you're looking for a fantastic rodeo experience you have come to the right place. This is my list of top 12 rodeos that every serious rodeo fan should see. Saddle up and take a whirlwind tour through the top 12 rodeos in the world. These rodeos are in no particular order.
1. Cheyenne Frontier Days
in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Known as the "Daddy of 'Em All" to cowboys and fans alike, this rodeo gives the most prized award buckles after the World Championship buckles given out at the NFR. This rodeo started in 1919 as a stock show and has grown into the most anticipated rodeo outside of the finals. There is over a week of rodeo action and related events, including music concerts (with major headliners), a western art show, and much, much more.

2. Calgary Stampede
in Calgary, Alberta Canada.

This is Canada's answer to Cheyenne. With a history that starts in 1912, this 10-day rodeo offers tons of activities during the rodeo week. In 2000, the Calgary Stampede pulled in a record 1.2 million in attendance. I really dig the chuck wagon races they have here every year.

3. Rodeo Houston
in Houston, Texas.

Held in conjunction with the Houston Livestock Show this rodeo had record attendance this year with 1.8 million coming through the gates at this 20-day event. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is a world of its own with, trail rides, cowboy cooking, contests, western art and just about anything else you can think of relating to rodeos and cowboys.

4. The Reno Rodeo
in Reno, Nevada.

The Reno Rodeo has been thrilling audiences since 1919 with its intimate rodeo action. I love the Reno Rodeo, there is just something cool about being in the high Nevada desert with over a weeks worth of entertainment. This rodeo also features a cattle drive, golf tournament, and an Xtreme Bulls event. Go to Reno and thank me later.

5. National Western Rodeo
in Denver Colorado.

Over half a million people a year go through the gates of this excellent indoor event. This will be the 99th year for this venerable rodeo, which is held in conjunction with a huge stock and horse show.

6. Southwest Exposition Livestock Show and Rodeo
in Fort Worth, Texas.

It was here, in 1904, where cowboy Bill Pickett (The Dusky Demon) demonstrated his 'bulldoggin' technique at the stock show. This is a huge event with almost 2 weeks of rodeo action and plenty to see and do in the lovely Fort Worth area.

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