Tucson Rodeo - Event Guide

Tucson Rodeo La Fiesta De Los Vaqueros | Tucson Rodeo - Event Guide

"Western heritage meets extreme sport when cowboys and cowgirls come to town"...at the Tucson Rodeo!

Formally called La Fiesta de los Vaqueros (which means "celebration of the cowboys" in Spanish), the Tucson Rodeo is a popular event for Arizonans. The Tucson Rodeo enlists contestants from the United States and Canada for the nine-day celebration, which is known for "non-stop action with bull riding, bareback and saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing."

Visitors from the USA, Canada, Mexico, and Europe are given "the opportunity to see real-life cowboys and cowgirls as they display their ability in the only sport in the world developed from work skills."

The first La Fiesta de los Vaqueros was in in 1925. Today, the Tucson Rodeo is "one of the top 25 professional rodeos in North America."

GENERAL INFORMATION

What are the dates for the 2023 Tucson Rodeo?

The 2022 Tucson Rodeo will be held, February 18-26, 2023.

What is the location of the Tucson Rodeo?

The Tucson Rodeo is held at the Tucson Rodeo Grounds, 4823 S. 6th Avenue (just north of Irvington) in the south Tucson area.

What are the hours?

Gates open at 11:00am each day of the rodeo. The Junior Rodeo begins at 12:30 pm. The ProRodeo begins at 2 pm and ends about 4 pm. The Coors Barn dance begins when the rodeo ends.

Why would I go to the Tucson Rodeo?

  • To have your kids watch or participate in Junior Rodeo or Mutton Bustin' - open to ages 4-14! Pre-registration is required.
  • To cheer on your favorite cowboys and cowgirls as they compete in various events.
  • To dance the night away at the Coors Barn Dances. Ages 21+.

What is new at the Tucson Rodeo for 2023?

This year, the Tucson Rodeo kicks off with an additional event. Country super stars, Lonestar, will be LIVE in concert in the Rodeo Arena on Saturday Feb 18th at 7:30pm. Tickets start at $20 with VIP opportunities available.

How much does admission cost?

Tickets vary by day - from $18 to $80 - based on day and section. There are no discounts for children. However, children 2 and under do not require a ticket if they sit on their parent’s lap.

Are there any discounts and/or coupons for the 2023 Tucson Rodeo?

The Tucson Rodeo offers $18 general admission tickets the first weekend, Feb 18 &19.

What is the parking situation?

Parking at the Tucson Rodeo Grounds is $7 per vehicle.

What are typically the most and least crowded days of the rodeo?

Least crowded days are FEB 18-19; most crowded days are FEB 25-26.

What should I wear?

Average Tucson temperatures in February range in the 40s-70s, often with blue skies and lots of sun. The only shaded seating area is the Vaquero Club. Sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and layers are advised.

What should I bring with me?

You’ll probably want to bring some cash for food, drinks, and wares from vendors.

*Note that the Tucson Rodeo has a Clear Bag Policy. See the website for full details.

Are bathrooms available?

Yes. Bathrooms are located in at least 4 different areas.

Can I bring my dog to the Tucson Rodeo?

All non-rodeo animals are prohibited from Tucson Rodeo grounds with the exception of certified service animals.

Can I buy cowboy/cowgirl products and souvenirs at the Tucson Rodeo?

There is a marketplace at the rodeo where you can purchase hats, boots, clothing, jewelry, etc.

DINING

Is outside food allowed at the Tucson Rodeo?

  • Outside food and drinks are not permitted.
  • Water bottles are not permitted.
  • Baby formula is permitted.

What dining venues are available on-site?

There are a variety of food, drink, and snack vendors at the Tucson Rodeo.

What restaurants are located near the Tucson Rodeo Grounds?

Nearby restaurants include:

  • El Guero Canelo, 5201 S. 12th Ave (1.4 miles away) - Sonoran hot dogs, burros, tacos, tortas
  • BK Tacos, 5118 S. 12th Ave (1.5 miles away) - tacos, burros, hot dogs, breakfast, Pina coladas, margaritas
  • La Bella China Restaurant, 5680 S. 12th Ave (1.8 miles away) - lo mean, ramen, beef, chicken, pork, vegetarian available
  • In-N-Out, 1979 E. Ajo Way (2.7 miles away) - burgers, French fries, milkshakes
  • BBQ Rush, 5151 S. Country Club Rd (3 miles away) - Texas-style BBQ, burgers, wings, ribs
  • Five Guys Spectrum, 5331 S. Santa Cruz (3.2 miles away) - burgers, hot dogs, fries, milkshakes

BABIES & KIDS

Can kids attend the Tucson Rodeo? Which days are best for kids?

Absolutely! The Tucson Rodeo is family-friendly. The Rodeo opens with Mutton Busting and Junior Rodeo at 12:30, which features kids from 4 to 14 years old. Kids will likely also enjoy the bull riding and barrel racing competitions. Clown acts and special events are family-friendly also.

Children are welcome on any of the rodeo days, however, the Feb. 18-19 rodeos offer $18 tickets.

Which seating section offers the best perks and/or views for children?

Section F or section A are good for viewing and easy to exit from.  A seating chart is available on the Tucson Rodeo website.

Should I bring a stroller?

Strollers are not allowed in the seating area, but parking is available nearby.

Is there a designated area for nursing moms?

Babies are welcome at the rodeo. There is a large restroom on the north side that accommodates babies and mothers.

Are changing tables available?

See above.

Is the rodeo wheelchair accessible?

There is a section for persons in wheelchairs with a ramp entry.

COORS BARN DANCES

The Coors Barn Dances are held indoors - in a barn - and are very lively. Expect lots of dancing! The dances are for ages 21 and over only. Food and drinks are available for purchase.

Dances are held after each rodeo performance, beginning after the last bull bucks (about 4 pm) and closing at 8 pm. $5 admission.

TUCSON RODEO PARADE

Grand Marshall Tucson Rodeo Parade | Tucson Rodeo - Event Guide

The Tucson Rodeo Parade has been a part of the rodeo festivities since 1925 and is now the "largest non-motorized parade in the country." Over 200 non-motorized floats are on display along the one and one-half mile parade route.

What is the date for the 2023 Tucson Rodeo Parade?

The 2023 Tucson Rodeo Parade will be held on Thursday, February 23 at 9:00am.

What is the location of the 2023 Tucson Rodeo Parade?

The Tucson Rodeo Parade concludes at the Tucson Rodeo Grounds.

What is the route of the Tucson Rodeo Parade?

The parade route begins on Ajo Highway, 1/2 mile east of Park Ave, at 9:00am. From there, it proceeds east to Park Avenue, then south on Park to Irvington Rd., west on Irvington to Sixth Avenue, and north on Sixth to the North end of the Tucson Rodeo Grounds. The Judges and Reviewing stands are located on the North side of Irvington close to Sixth Ave.

Grandstand seating is on Irvington Road. Seating in this area requires ticketing, which can be purchased at Ticket Booths near the Grandstands or in advance at The Rodeo Parade Office.

What time should I arrive for the Tucson Rodeo Parade?

The streets near the parade route are closed by 7 am. Come as early as you can!

Where should we park if we plan to attend the Tucson Rodeo Parade?

Parking is available for $7 (cash only!) near the Rodeo Grounds on a first-come basis. Plan to arrive early (see above). Grandstand pre-parade entertainment begins at 8:00am. 

  • If you are coming from North Tucson, you will get on I-10 and get off on Kino South (which turns into Campbell) until you get to Irvington Road.
  • If you are coming from Green Valley area, you will get on I-19 and get off on Valencia Road to Park Ave to Irvington Road.

What is the cost to attend the Tucson Rodeo Parade?

There is no charge for roadside viewing.

Tickets for Grandstand seating at Irvington and South 6th Ave are $10 adults, $5 for kids under age 13. Call 520-294-1280 for grandstand tickets.

Bring your own chairs, blankets, etc.

WHERE TO STAY

What hotels do you recommend for visitors to the Tucson Rodeo?

We recommend:

Another terrific option is to find a vacation rental thru Tucson Vacation Rentals.

MISCELLANY

Is the Tucson Rodeo active on social media?

Yes. You can follow the Tucson Rodeo on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

What else do I need to know before I go to the Tucson Rodeo?

That just about covers it. Have a great time!

TucsonTopia contains both paid and non-paid mentions of businesses and organizations in and around Tucson, Arizona. Any reference made here to local businesses, services, classes, etc. is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. We encourage you to do your own research before participating in an event or engaging with a local business or organization. The intent of TucsonTopia is to provide ideas for family-friendly activities, events, and resources. Participants assume all risks for any activities they engage in. TucsonTopia is not responsible for any injuries or problems that may arise from partaking in any of these events and activities.
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