News Summary
The California Rodeo Salinas concluded its 115th year, attracting around 68,000 attendees over five days. Despite a slight decline in ticket sales due to increased prices, the event featured sellouts for key shows and showcased local traditions, community spirit, and sustainability efforts. Noteworthy achievements included wins for legendary team ropers and the support of local businesses. The rodeo also contributed significantly to community initiatives and is set to return in 2025, continuing its role as a vital part of Salinas’ identity.
California – The California Rodeo Salinas wrapped up today, marking the end of an impressive 115th year of tradition and community celebration. Over five days, the event attracted approximately 68,000 attendees, showcasing various rodeo competitions, parades, and other engaging activities.
This year, ticket sales experienced a slight decline compared to last year, a potential consequence of increased ticket prices, which were raised for the first time since 2012. Despite this, the rodeo maintained popularity, with notable sellouts for both the Extreme Bulls event and Friday night’s main rodeo show. The rodeo, established in 1911, reflects Salinas’ deep-rooted traditions and has become a key feature of the local cultural calendar.
While the rodeo attracted a significant crowd, not all local businesses benefitted equally from the event. Some establishments witnessed a drop in clientele, particularly Dubbers, a local bar that saw reduced foot traffic. Staff noted that extended hours for outdoor tents might potentially enhance evening business in future events. In contrast, Villa Azteca reported a busy weekend and acknowledged the support of the local community in their thriving business during the rodeo.
The competitive highlights of the rodeo included significant achievements by renowned team ropers, Jake Barnes and Clay Cooper, who won the PRCA Gold Card Team Roping. Their victory adds to their legacy, as these living legends have participated in the rodeo for many years. Barnes expressed fondness for Salinas, appreciating the atmosphere and the event’s rich history, while also discussing aspirations to lift the participation cap that limits the number of teams to 100 in future rodeo events.
The California Rodeo Salinas offered a variety of attractions beyond the main rodeo events, including a parade, cowboy poetry performances, and a Special Buckaroos Rodeo, which provided an opportunity for children with special needs to participate in a supportive environment. The diversity of offerings made the event accessible and enjoyable for attendees of all ages.
This year, the rodeo also embraced sustainability practices by implementing free off-site parking and shuttle services to manage the large attendance and enhance guest experiences. Community involvement remains a cornerstone of the event, with the rodeo recently donating nearly $800,000 to local nonprofits and providing $30,000 in scholarships for local students, further solidifying its commitment to benefiting the Salinas area.
The Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon and the Forever Royal Reunion were among the significant gatherings at this year’s rodeo, celebrating the event’s rich history and the contributions of various participants over the years. These occasions not only honor rodeo legends but also cultivate a sense of belonging and community among attendees.
The California Rodeo Salinas is set to return for its 116th edition from July 17 to 20, 2025. With its mix of traditional rodeo spirit and community engagement, the event aims to continue being a vital part of Salinas’ identity for years to come.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Team Roping Journal
- KSBW News
- Western Horseman
- Monterey Herald
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California Rodeo Salinas
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