The Whitesboro Riding Club will celebrate a beloved local tradition this weekend as it hosts its 68th Annual Whitesboro Rodeo. For generations, families from across North Texas and beyond have made the event part of their Fourth of July celebrations.
Recognized as one of the top five rodeos in the United Professional Rodeo Association (UPRA), the Whitesboro Rodeo offers three nights of action-packed entertainment for the entire family. Spectators can enjoy traditional rodeo events including Bull Riding, Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Team Roping, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Breakaway Roping and Ranch Bronc Riding.
In addition to the professional competition, family-friendly events include the Kids Calf Scramble, Women’s Steer Scramble and Youth Barrel Racing. Each evening concludes with a fireworks display, making for an unforgettable Independence Day weekend experience.
Beyond the excitement in the arena, the rodeo showcases the talent, dedication and courage of competitors who travel from across the region to participate.
This year’s rodeo will be held July 2, 3 and 4. Gates open each evening at 6 p.m., with rodeo action beginning at 7:30 p.m. Free on-site parking is available but limited, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early. Concessions will also be available throughout the event.
A highlight of the annual July 4 celebration is the Rodeo Royalty Contest, one of the oldest continuously operating rodeo royalty programs in North Texas. The Whitesboro Riding Club is proud to preserve this longstanding tradition and celebrate the young ambassadors who help promote the sport of rodeo.
The contest features four age divisions: Buckerette/Buckeroo (ages 5 and under), Junior Princess (ages 6-9), Princess (ages 10-13) and Queen (ages 14-18). Winners in each division receive a crown, buckle and saddle complete with a matching headstall and breast collar.
Contestants also have the opportunity to earn additional awards for Top Horsemanship, Top Ticket and Sponsorship Sales and Top Personality and Appearance. These honors are determined through a combination of horsemanship competition, interviews and demonstrations of rodeo knowledge, including horse anatomy and saddle parts.
This year’s Rodeo Royalty candidates include Buckerette Candidate, Charlotte Yoder; Junior Princess Candidates Bella Johnson and Mazie Zahr; Princess Candidates; Catherine Campbell and Madison Stem; and Queen Candidates Harlee Nincehelser and Hope Everett.
Tickets for the 68th Annual Whitesboro Rodeo are available online at whitesbororidingclub.org or may be purchased from any Rodeo Royalty candidate. Admission at the gate is $10, and children ages 5 and under are admitted free.
The Whitesboro Riding Club is a volunteer non-profit public charity that is dedicated to promoting the spirit of teamwork, community and the rich heritage of rodeo. Their mission is to provide a supportive environment for participants of all ages to develop their skills, foster friendships and engage in safe, fun and educational rodeo experiences. Learn more at www.whitesbororidingclub.org