The Greeley Stampede kicked off its annual event this week – here's your quick guide to this year’s celebrations.
For 98 years and counting, the Greeley Stampede annual event is one of the most well-known community events around. Running from Wednesday, June 26, through Sunday, July 7, this is an all-out tribute to the Western lifestyle here in the Centennial State.
Rodeo, a carnival, concerts, vendors, food, a demolition derby, and a Fourth of July celebration are all a part of the fun at this extravaganza focused on Colorado’s western roots and heritage. There's a little bit of everything, for everyone, at the Stampede! Here's a quick roundup of events that you will not want to miss.
The Rodeo
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The PRCA Rodeo series has six days of events and competitions starting on Thursday, June 27. July 1 is the Tough Enough to Wear Pink Rodeo, July 2 is Military Appreciation, and the PRCA Finals are on July 3. Events include steer wrestling, team roping, bareback riders, barrel racing, bull riders, and tie-down roping.
SuperStars Concert Series
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This is one of the most-anticipated events of the Greeley Stampede, and this year’s lineup is huge. Fans of both rock and country have something to look forward to with headliners REO Speedwagon (June 28), Brett Eldredge (June 29), Kip Moore (July 4), Cody Johnson (July 5), and The Brothers Osbourne (July 6). Tickets range from $35 to $45, with five-show passes available for $80 and $110.
Demolition Derby
This one-night event on July 7 promises car crashing, engine revving, dirt-flying fun. Over 100 drivers will participate in this multi-heat derby, which has sold out for many of its past shows. The event features a $28,000 purse and is produced by Rocky Mountain Derby Promotions. Tickets are $20 and $25 and are likely to go quickly for this fan favorite.
Independence Day Parade
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The Fourth of July Parade is a Greeley tradition and kicks off at 9 a.m. that morning. Over 130 entries of bands, livestock, horses, and floats will make their way along the route, and this is a yearly family tradition for many in the area. A daily Parade in the Park happens every day of the Greely Stampede at 6 p.m., so there are plenty of opportunities to see all the action.
Fireworks
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There will be a firework show on July 4 to help celebrate the holiday. The show will start at 9:30 p.m. over Island Grove Park.
American Bull Fighting
A perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July is to watch this one-day-only event of freestyle bullfighting, July 4 at 1 p.m. This one is sure to bring the crowds and some displays of pure bravery as these rodeo athletes take on a Mexican fighting bull, risking their safety in a 90-second head to head with the bull. Tickets are $15 and $20.
Kids Korral
The kids' area has a ton of free stuff just for the littlest cow folk; a sandbox, petting zoo, face painting, craft stations, pedal tractors, stick horse rodeo, and more. There is also a sheep stampede where kids can try an eight-second sheep ride – this one has a waiver, so stop by the Pavilion (south of the Kids Korral) for ride availability and safety information. Kids ages 4-7, who are under 50 pounds, can get in on this cool activity.
Carnival
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The carnival area is always a huge draw and is open every day of the Greeley Stampede. Unlimited ride wristbands are $30, rides can also be purchased on an individual basis. Expect classic rides for all ages, midway games, food stands, vendors, and all that tummy-tempting carnival food.
20th Annual Stampede Western Art Exhibit & Sale
Courtesy of Greeley Stampede (www.greeleystampede.org)
This free (with event admission) art exhibit is a showcase for western painting and sculpture and has artists from across the country. Artists will be present for a meet-and-greet and revenue from art sales goes to scholarships for high school seniors living in Weld County. A youth art competition during the show will also award two young artists $2,500 college scholarships.
2nd Annual Cowboy Games
This newer event is back for a second year. On July 6, 30 teams of five will compete in a cowboy-themed obstacle course. First place prize is $500 cash. This test of fitness and teamwork is intended to showcase the physical nature of a cowboy or cowgirl's job and showcase the athleticism these folks possess.
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The Stampede Saloon will offer cold beverages and live music throughout the duration of the Greeley Stampede and is located near the food court.
Car shows, free music on the Roper Music Stage and the Extraction Park Stage, behind-the-scenes rodeo tours, extreme bulls, and lots of down-home, honky-tonk times can be expected at this 12-day event.
What about you? What are your favorite things to see, do, and eat at the Greeley Stampede? Holler at us in the comments below!
