Truckee Pro Rodeo

The Truckee Pro Rodeo is Truckee's biggest late-summer tradition, and 2027 marks its 53rd year. This year's rodeo is set for August 26-28, 2027 at historic McIver Arena, next to Truckee Regional Park, and the whole thing is put on by volunteers with the Truckee Pro Rodeo Association.

What the Truckee Rodeo Is Like

Think small-town Western fair with real rodeo action. Families spread blankets on the grass under the pines or pack into the grandstands, food and drink vendors line the grounds, and the bars are run by volunteers from the Truckee Donner Horsemen. In the arena, cowboys and cowgirls from across the region compete in bull riding, saddle bronc riding and roping as part of the California Cowboys Pro Rodeo Association (CCPRA) circuit. Each performance opens with the drill team riding in 15 minutes before the start, visiting rodeo queens join the flag team, and a rodeo clown keeps the crowd laughing between rides. It feels like a hometown night out, and it has for more than 50 years.

Event Highlights

Mutton bustin' is the crowd favorite. At every performance, kids ages 4 to 8 try to hang on to a running sheep as long as they can, and the stands cheer every ride. On Saturday, the top riders from that morning's Junior Barrel Race compete during the evening performance for a custom champion buckle. A Western dance traditionally follows Saturday's rodeo, with proceeds going to the Truckee Donner Junior Horsemen Association. Earlier in the month, the Rodeo Queen Pageant on August 8, 2027 is free to watch.

2027 Schedule

Thursday, Aug. 26: Opening night. The rodeo currently lists both a CCPRA rodeo (gates 4 p.m., start 5 p.m.) and an Extreme Bulls & Broncs night with a kickoff concert, so confirm the final lineup before you plan around it.
Friday, Aug. 27: Gates open 4:30 p.m., rodeo starts 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 28: Gates open 2:30 p.m., rodeo starts 4 p.m.

Each rodeo performance runs about 2 to 2.5 hours. The organizers post the full 2027 schedule in spring on the Truckee Pro Rodeo schedule page.

Tickets, Seating and What to Bring

Tickets for 2027 go on sale in winter 2026 through the rodeo's website, and buying ahead is smart for a weekend night. There are two places to sit: the grandstands or the grass under the trees. If you pick the grass, bring a blanket or low chairs, since tall chairs belong at the top of the grandstands or on the ground. Outside food and drinks aren't allowed, but you can bring water and refill it at stations around the grounds. Dogs and other animals need to stay home. Truckee sits close to 6,000 feet, so pack a warm layer for when the sun drops behind the trees.

Parking and Getting There

Parking at the arena is very limited, so plan your ride before you go. A $10 onsite parking donation supports local youth groups and is first come, first served. The easier option is the free lot at 10981 Truckee Way, where air-conditioned shuttles run to the arena, and shuttles also pick up at the downtown Railyard lot. You can also park at the end of East River Street, cross the Truckee River footbridge and follow the Legacy Trail, about an 8-minute walk. Free street parking is available on Estates Drive, but skip Palisades Drive and the nearby neighborhoods, where you will get a ticket. TART, rideshare and carpooling all help on busy nights.

Get tickets and the latest schedule on the Truckee Pro Rodeo website.