True. Western. Determination

by Tricia Lewis Photos by Blushing Cactus Photography

Trusted traditions require dedication, determination and vision. Each year hours and hours of planning, organization and coordination occur to produce Prescott Frontier Days®, Inc. and the World’s Oldest Rodeo® .

The World’s Oldest Rodeo® is truly Prescott’s most anticipated event of the year, and has been for the past 133 years. It is a tradition that resonates positively with residents, business owners and visitors who crave a true western experience...and a huge boost to the local economy.

Except for what we all experienced in 2020 with COVID-19, the World’s Oldest Rodeo® has consistently implemented trusted traditions that make us special, unique and nostalgic. However, the pandemic was a true test of our will, dedication and strength as an organization, a community and as people.

This year our theme best resonates on the outcome of the pandemic: True. Western. Determination. It represents the traditions that make this organization and the World’s Oldest Rodeo® unique. We are true to our roots, to the culture that many depend on and know Prescott for … and we are determined to survive anything that comes our way!

The World’s Oldest Rodeo® is the culture that defines Prescott as a western town. We are the birthplace of professional rodeo, and many come from all over just to experience that and create lifelong memories.

Last year was a true test of our strength and overall determination. With the help of members from the community, and permission from the Governor’s office, we produced and held the 133rd World’s Oldest Rodeo® right here at this location. It was different, a bit awkward with the new rules that were enforced, but it turned out to be a great rodeo with great rodeo livestock and contestants.

Looking ahead and here we are, the 134th annual World’s Oldest Rodeo® is upon us. It is exciting, refreshing, and a bit

overwhelming to think of all this organization has endured. We are “rodeo strong” and will hopefully be around for the next 134 years in Prescott, Arizona.

This year is off to a great start with strong ticket sales and at full capacity, and our sponsors have once again showed up in numbers. We truly appreciate our rodeo fans, sponsors and contestants who continuously support us to make Prescott’s most anticipated event of the year the best it can be!

It is our goal and promise to produce the best rodeo, dance, parade and all the other activities held during Prescott Frontier Days®. The reason we are strong is because of each one of you — your dedication to serve as a volunteer, donate as a sponsor, your membership and attendance at member meetings, willingness to ride in the grand entry and proudly display your patriotism in front of thousands of people, is truly an honor and something we as a nonprofit organization do not take lightly.

Each year hundreds of volunteers work tirelessly (some yearround) to improve the rodeo grounds, organize merchandise, implement new ways of doing things to contribute to the overall success of this rodeo and organization. Consider this a sincere thank you to each of you!

The World’s Oldest Rodeo® is a true, western and determined organization that values the community in which it thrives, and we would not be here without it. We encourage you to enjoy yourself, watch heart-pounding and world-class rodeo and patronize the vendors in attendance.

Remember, the gates open two hours prior to each performance. So come early, shop the vendor spaces, and enjoy some great food (and maybe some livestock sounds) along the way.

Don’t forget our annual rodeo dance (held in the Depot Marketplace/BMO Harris Bank parking lot), Arizona’s second largest outdoor parade (held in downtown Prescott) and many other family-friendly events occur from June 28 to July 4; visit www. worldsoldestrodeo.com for more information and event details.

Enjoy the World’s Oldest Rodeo® , and if we can do anything to make your experience better, please let us know. Thank you for your support!