The 95th annual Ute Mountain Roundup Rodeo, a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event, once again kicks off summer at the Montezuma County Fairgrounds from Thursday, June 12 through Saturday, June 14, delivering three nights of high-energy competition and family-friendly entertainment.
The first night of the rodeo kicks started at 7 p.m. on Thursday, and featuring top cowboys and cowgirls in events like bull riding, barrel racing, team roping and more.
Each evening includes mutton bustin’ for children ages 3 through 7 and weighing under 50 pounds. Stick horse races, open to young participants, will have signups before each performance.
The rodeo will also have a theme for each night. Thursday is Family Night with discounted tickets and a celebration of 4-H youths. Friday honors military members with a special opening ceremony and Saturday will highlight Future Farmer’s of America, recognizing the vital role of these organizations in agriculture.
“We truly believe that these organizations serve as the backbone of our community and country,” Madelaine Gaskey told The Journal. “These youths are the future of agriculture and ag business.”
The Rob Yates Memorial Golf Tournament at Conquistador Golf Course will be held Friday, and registration for teams is now full.
Nightly after-parties will be held at Blondie’s Trophy Room tent, offering family-friendly music from local bands, including JR Stafford on Thursday, Sean DeLand on Friday and Sitton Shotgun on Saturday. Coors and Pendleton Whiskey will be available for adults.
Rodeo tickets, which include concert admission, are available online at www.utemountainroundup.org.
Opening ceremonies, led by announcer Marc Hogue and featuring the Frog X Parachute Team, will set the stage for each performance. The Frazier Carnival will provide rides and food each evening as well. Tickets are free for children three and under on a parent’s lap, with discounted rates for those 12 and under. Adult tickets apply for ages 13 and up.
The Ute Mountain Roundup, a Cortez tradition since 1930, has invested over $250,000 in fairgrounds infrastructure over the past 15 years, earning accolades as the area’s best annual event for five consecutive years.
