Cody, Wyoming, is proudly known as the “Rodeo Capital of the World,” and for good reason. With a rich history dating back to 1919, Cody’s rodeo scene is a vibrant tapestry of tradition, adrenaline, and community spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned rodeo fan or a curious newcomer, here’s your guide to experiencing the best of Cody’s rodeo events this summer.
Buffalo Bill Cody, the town has always had a flair for Western pageantry and cowboy grit. The first Cody Stampede was held in 1919, and was organized by local volunteers who wanted to honor the cowboy way of life and put Cody on the map as a rodeo destination. Well, they definitely succeeded!
Over the past century, Cody has hosted some of the biggest rodeo legends. Cowboys like Freckles Brown, who famously rode the un-rideable bull Tornado, local hero Dusty Tuckness, who we famously documented last year in the award-winning Heartbeat of the Rodeo series, and Mel Stonehouse, who was instrumental in building Cody’s rodeo reputation, turned the local arena into a breeding ground for rodeo royalty. The community was so enthralled with this incredible rodeo exhibition that they kept showing up—year after year, decade after decade, to cheer on the cowboys and cowgirls.
In 1938, the Cody Nite Rodeo launched, offering nightly rodeo action all summer long, and the tradition has never wavered. Today, Cody is the only place in the country that hosts a rodeo every single night during peak season. That consistency, combined with the sheer enthusiasm of the crowds and the level of competition, is what earned Cody its rodeo reputation.
Running nightly from June 1 through August 31, the Cody Nite Rodeo offers an authentic Western experience for all ages. Gates open at 7:00 pm, with the rodeo kicking off at 8:00 pm and ending at 10:00 pm. Expect thrilling events like bull riding, barrel racing, saddle bronc riding, and more—featuring both seasoned professionals and aspiring amateurs.
Insider tip: Skip the parking hassle by hopping on the Cody Nite Rodeo Bus. For just $7 round-trip, the bus picks up near most hotels and campgrounds in town. Plus, kids under 10 ride free! Keep a little cash on you and pay the driver as you board and enjoy a stress-free ride to the arena.
The Cody Stampede Rodeo is held each year from July 1st to 4th. Cowboys and cowgirls from all across North America come to the Cody Stampede to compete for big prizes and to ride the most prized rodeo stock in the country. What makes this event truly special is its rich history and unforgettable Western atmosphere—a thrilling blend of competitive spirit, cowboy culture, and a heart-racing celebration of Independence Day.
This year, we will be celebrating 106 years of rodeo tradition, and we’ll be honoring some special individuals each night of the Cody Stampede:
Are you searching for the most adrenaline-packed, high-octane shows that Cody has to offer? Look no further than the Xtreme Bulls and Bullfighters Only events. Kicking off the Cody Stampede, Xtreme Bulls happens on June 30th and is an absolute must-see on your Cody itinerary. The event features the PRCA’s top freestyle bull riders facing off against some of the highest-ranking bulls in the sport. A high-stakes, nail-biting spectacle, Xtreme Bulls is a riveting event that sets the tone for Stampede week.
A test of speed and precision, barrel racing showcases riders maneuvering their horses around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels in the fastest time possible. An all-women event, barrel racing is a huge fan favorite that highlights agility and the deep connection between horse and rider.
Divided into saddle bronc and bareback categories, bronc riding challenges cowboys to hang on tight to a bucking horse for a full eight seconds. A classic rodeo event that combines skill, balance, and a whole lot of guts to compete in.
Often considered the most dangerous event at the rodeo, bull riding pits man against beast in this ultimate showdown of athleticism and courage. Similar to bronc riding, the goal is to stay on for eight seconds—and trust us, eight seconds can feel like a lifetime to these cowboys when you’re hanging on to these powerful and unpredictable bulls.
“The Rodeo Capital of the World” isn’t just a tagline. In Cody, it’s part of the town’s heartbeat. It’s woven into the summer air, the local festivities, and the shared identity of a community that still believes in holding onto tradition while celebrating the raw, unfiltered spirit of the American West.
Ready to experience the thrill of the rodeo firsthand? Start planning your summer getaway to Cody Yellowstone. Whether you’re drawn by the nightly excitement of the Cody Nite Rodeo, the grandeur of the Cody Stampede, or the edge-of-your-seat action of Xtreme Bulls, there’s something for everyone.
June 12, 2025
April 14, 2025
Start planning your wild adventure with the help of our free guide.