With how much I love the western look and aesthetic, surprisingly enough until the year of our Lord 2026 I’ve never been to a rodeo! My father wasn’t much into the western thing, but his parents were, but honestly they didn’t really catch me as being “rodeo” people. They lived in the country, they both liked the cowboy movies, and liked the style, and the music but never can I remember them talking about going to a rodeo.
From what I can remember however, my in laws have been going to the rodeo the last couple years if not longer. And a couple years ago I even got to accompany Vito on a field trip to the rodeo grounds to ride a horse. So when my mother in law offered for me to go I was quick to say “heck yeah!” Daniel, not being a very ‘rodeo’ guy declined to go, but my two eldest children said they would go and check it out.
To my surprise, every show this year at the Redding Rodeo was all sold out! Due to the fact that the close part of the streets down, we had to get there almost 2 hours early, which, being my first rodeo I had no idea. But luckily, there were concession stands, drinks, food, all sorts of things to keep you entertained and waiting. Although, the price for 5 drinks at this event was absolutely astonishing to me ($30.00!)
The Redding Rodeo had many different events, starting off with cowboys and girls trying to hold on for dear life as a horse trys to buck em off, then there’s the Mutton Busting, my personal favorite, the barrel racing (something I’ve always wanted to learn), so much happened that I’m sure I’m missing stuff. We saw a hog tie contest, some roping, and of course what rodeo would be complete without a Rodeo clown throwing bad jokes and footballs to crowds.
In retrospect, I probably should have watched some rodeos prior to going, just to have a simple understanding of how the timing and scores work. But watching the horses, and cowboys and cowgirls do their thing was rather enjoyable. My daughter was beside me applauding and cracking jokes at some of the music they played, but seemingly enjoyed watching the animals. (and being shes an animal lover, I pretty much expected that one)
Would we go next year? Oh I would 110%. Would I change some things? Oh for sure. Now knowing about the parking situation and the roads closing an hour before showtime, I’ll be sure to bring something for Vito to do if he chooses to go again, as well as some spending cash as well.