First-Time Rodeo-Goer Reacts to the Greeley Stampede—and It Was Wild

It's not officially summer until the Greeley Stampede kicks off!

When Is the 2025 Greeley Stampede? Dates & Schedule

The massive event in Northern Colorado opened for its 103rd season on Wednesday, June 25th and will run until Sunday, July 6th.

Greeley Stampede 2025 Concert Lineup Features Country & Hip-Hop Stars

Not only does the Greeley Stampede get stellar musical acts like Ludacris, Warren Zeiders, Scotty McCreery, and Parker McCollum, but they also host a PRCA Rodeo series.

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What Is the PRCA Rodeo at the Greeley Stampede?

The Stampede is a part of one of the oldest and largest rodeo organizations in the world, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. It also just so happens to be one of the PRCA's "premiere events," according to officials.

Why the Greeley Stampede Rodeo Matters on a National Level

This is one of the top fifteen rodeos in the entire country! Athletes that do well at the Greeley Stampede will have a chance to compete at the "Super Bowl" of rodeos later this year.

As of July 2nd, the 2025 PRCA contestant payout is just over $30 million!

READ MORE: An Enormous List of Northern Colorado Events for July 2025

First-Timer Goes to a Real Rodeo — Here’s What Happened

Let’s just say the Greeley Stampede knows how to throw one heck of a rodeo. I actually had a chance to check it out on Tuesday, July 1st.

I've never been to a rodeo before, so I had no clue what to expect.

I know what you're thinking...

Yes, this was LITERALLY my very first rodeo.

First Responders Honored at Greeley Stampede Rodeo Night

I was lucky enough to attend my very first actual rodeo on First Responders Appreciation Night!

Stampede officials honored local police, paramedics, and fire department officials at the start of the event. They all rode into the arena inside of their respective vehicles, with the lights flashing.

This entire crowd took a moment to recognize all of their hard work and sacrifice to our community.

Rodeo Action: What to Expect at the Greeley Stampede

Once the tribute was over, it was time to get to the rodeo action!

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I grew up on the East Coast, so I haven't see anything like this before. My mind was blown from the moment the event started.

From the women riding in on horses, holding up flags to the actual competitions I was hooked.

Night five of the rodeo was filled with drama and a whole lot of fun.

From a first timer's perspective, I couldn't believe how these athletes were able to complete these different tasks.

Top Greeley Stampede Events You Shouldn’t Miss

My jaw was on the floor the ENTIRE time. The passion and flair these competitors have is something else entirely.

When the first rodeo star came out on a bucking horse, I stared in shock at the competitor as he fought to stay on for as long as he could.

READ MORE: Colorado’s Most Miserable Heat Day Wasn’t That Long Ago

I can hardly walk in a straight line without tripping over my own feet. How can someone stay on a horse that is actively trying to get them off?

Personally, my favorite events to watch are bareback riding, mutton busting, and the chuck wagon races!

Greeley Stampede Rodeo Finals: When & Where

The finals for the PRCA Rodeo series at the Greeley Stampede will take place on See how you can get tickets to the event here.

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