The Wild West Comes Alive at the Pendleton Roundup

Looking for something exciting to do in September?  You just might want to check out the Pendleton Roundup, September 15-18th.

The Pendleton Roundup will be celebrating 100 years.  It all started back in September of 1910, the first year it drew a crowd of 7,000 spectators and became an instant sensation.  Back then it was for all the local farmers and ranchers to come in and celebrate the end of harvest season. It was all about the horse racing and bronco busting fun.  They also invited the Umatilla Tribe to come in and be part of the festivities.

This year, since they will be celebrating the 100 years, the Westward Ho! Parade will be lead by 100 flag bearing riders on horseback and followed by authentic Western transportation including covered wagons, surreys, Mormon carts and buggies.  This will be and always has been the largest non motorized parade in America.

From 7,000 spectators in it's first year, the event this year will draw 52,000 spectators in just 4 days.  That is quite a crowd for a town whose population is just 17,000.

You will see cowboys, cowgirls, wrangles, cowboy hats and chaps all week long. You will see the wild west come alive this week.  It will finally be your chance to wear your cowboy hat and boots and not feel out of place.

While you are there make sure you visit the Rodeo Hall of Fame.  It is located on the rodeo grounds under the south grandstands. It contains all memorabilia from the oldest and largest rodeo in America, the Pendelton Roundup.

I have never been, but have always known about this rodeo.  I am origianlly from Eastern Oregon, so I have been to many rodeos, but never this one. After writing about it I can tell you it has been added to my bucket list of things to do.  I would love to say next year, but the truth is it's hard with kids in high school.  But I will make it happen, I just wish we could go this year, since it is the 100 year celebration.

There are still tickets available, hurry up before they are gone.  Want to know more and learn more check out the Pendleton Round-up blog.  For even more history check out The Portland Round-up Book.

Photo courtesy of Dale DeGabriele