Annual World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo – Payson, Arizona
Since 1884 this Rodeo has been running for the enjoyment of the spectators and the challenges of the cowboys. Rim County is known as the home of the world class event. Always held on the thrid weekend in August the rodeo draws people from all over the world to the city of Payson.
PRCA, Professional Rodeo Cowboys’ Association which sanctions the event says it is the best small rodeo in the world. The long weekend includes an old-fashioned parade and incorporates several days of gala "wild west" events.
Top vowboys work to rope a calf or steer atop well trained horses, or ride bulls in fracgtions of a second. The rodeo includes all seven events plus PWBR barrel racing and a special event that you will have to be there to see. There are four performances performances so you can go to all of them or pick the one that works best for your schedule.
Location: Payson Events Center, south side of Payson. To get there from the Phoenix area, take the Loop 202 east to the Country Club/Highway 87 exit. Make a left to go north on 87, and take it all the way up to Payson.
There is a charge for parking. Tickets may be purchased at the event. There’s a discount for seniors and children. Bring cash–no credit cards accepted.
Tips for attending the Payson Rodeo:
1. If you come in the daytime, and it’s a sunny day, make sure you sit on the side of the stadium where the sun will be at your back and not in your eyes.
2. These are all metal bleachers with no backs. Bring seat pads if sitting on metal bleachers for a few hours sounds like a challenge.
3. If you get there early, you can get a seat at the top row of the bleachers (higher is better for viewing) and you’ll have the added benefit of a fence behind you can lean back against.
4. Bring your camera, a hat, sunscreen.
5. Drink your water, soft drinks, and beverages before you leave–no open containers are allowed out of the rodeo grounds.
6. Don’t want to fight the traffic leaving the rodeo? Take your kids and stop at the petting zoo!
Phone: 928-474-4515.
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