SOUTH DAKOTA’S RODEO HOME Belle Fourche:

Belle Fourche has made a name for itself as a rodeo town. Much of that is due to the popularity of the historic Black Hills Roundup: an annual Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) rodeo that’s been held here since 1918.

The Roundup will observe its 104th anniversary this year starting Friday, June 30 and ending on Tuesday, July 4.

“One of the top priorities of our committee is to promote the heritage of our area and the valuable businesses and attractions available to visitors,” Black Hills Roundup committee chairperson Dallas Conner said.

An estimated 20,000 parade goers and 7,500 rodeo performance attendees visited last year’s Roundup. Conner said those numbers translate into generating $34,000 in sales tax revenue.

Traditional events dominate this year’s schedule. They include four PRCA Rodeo performances, the parade, and a “Chutes for Charity” golf tournament.

Conner said the Roundup aims to create an atmosphere that includes many interests. Family activities include the parade, carnival, and fireworks show along with familystyle entertainment during the July 1 rodeo performance.

Entertainment on July 1 will feature Bobby Kerr using wild horses, mustangs, and dogs in a Wild West show theme using antique cars and unique props.

The Black Hills Roundup earned its fifth straight PRCA Medium Outdoor Rodeo of the Year honor in 2022.

Conner said the feat is an incredible honor that truly defines the volunteerism level in Belle Fourche.

“When you consider that everyone is involved is in a volunteer capacity, it is overwhelming,” she added.

“Being recognized nationally really confirms our forward thinking approach to managing the Roundup,” Conner said. She added the committee dedicates much time and effort to produce the best possible experience.

Powder River Rodeo, in 2019, received the Remuda Award that honors the best pens of horses throughout the year. This stock contractor has worked with the Roundup for almost 35 years.

Events for this year will include mutton bustin’, ranch rodeo, concerts, steer roping, a downtown carnival, two nights of fireworks, and four PRCA rodeo performances.

“Our goal is to create sustainable growth with an event that is steeped in traditions,” Conner said of planning for the 2023 Roundup. She added volunteers do homework and put forth a lot of effort to host an outstanding event.

Each of the PRCA rodeo performances carries a theme.

“Family Night” will take place on Saturday, July 1. The “Chutes for Charity” performance is set for Sunday, July 2.

“Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night” is set for Monday, July 3. “First Responders Appreciation” has a scheduled date of Tuesday, July 4.

While the rodeo itself is certainly the big draw, there’s enough going on at the Black Hills Roundup to please almost anyone. There are carnival rides, art shows, concerts and much more.

The Black Hills Roundup’s fireworks display is among the best in South Dakota, and the Independence Day parade is one of the largest in the state. This year’s fireworks show will take place on two nights, following the PRCA rodeo performances of Sunday, July 2 and Monday, July 3.

A Miss Black Hills Roundup Queen pageant is set for Thursday, June 29. Coronation will take place Friday, June 30, prior to the Ranch Rodeo.

While the Black Hills Roundup is the biggest rodeo in Belle Fourche, it does not stand alone. Belle Fourche is also home to many other rodeos.

The Belle Jackpot Association rodeos take place this year on several days in May through August. Scheduled dates are May 11, May 24 and 31, and June 6-7. An inclement weather rain date is set for July 12.

This rodeo features roping, goat tying, barrel racing, and pole bending events for contestants of all ages. Check Facebook.com/ Belle Jackpot for more information.

The Butte County 4-H Rodeo also calls Belle Fourche home. This rodeo is open to South Dakota 4-H members aged 8 to 18 and features barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, breakaway roping, tie-down roping, team roping, ribbon roping, calf riding, senior and junior bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and a pageant called “The Ambassador Contest.”

This 4-H rodeo begins with the Ambassador Contest, which then gives way to the main rodeo events. Dates were not available as of press time. For more information on the Butte County 4-H Rodeo, contact the Butte County Extension Office at (605) 892-3371.