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Disclaimer: I was not paid for this post however I did receive tickets to the event in return for the publication. As always, all opinions are my own. @VisitFortWorth @StockyardsRodeo

Texas and rodeos. They go hand in hand don’t they? Cowboys, horses, bull riding and barrel racing are just a few thoughts that come to mind when thinking about Texas. It’s only appropriate that a rodeo lands on your DFW Bucket List.

The Fort Worth Stockyards allows visitors to step into the Wild West. It doesn’t take much imagination to see what it would’ve been 100 years ago. Brick layered streets, great music, rodeos, history, cattle drives, gun shows and BBQ are just a few things that can be found in the Stockyards. You’re in the Wild Wild West y’all!

Back in the 1800’s, Fort Worth was the last major stop on the Chisholm Trail. Moving more than four million cattle through the area between 1866 and 1890, Fort Worth quickly became known as “Cowtown”. 1876 provided a major turning point, bringing the railroad. In 1887 the Union Stockyards were build a few miles from the Courthouse. Soon enough, with new ownership, the business bloomed. The Union Stockyards became the Fort Worth Stockyards Company, bringing major packers, a Telegraph office, and other supporting businesses to the city. It’s only appropriate that this is where we can find the Stockyards Championship Rodeo today!

Every Friday and Saturday evening, the Stockyards Championship Rodeo takes place. Hailing competitors from around the world, it isn’t out of the ordinary if you hear of a bull rider coming as far away as Australia.

Shortly after an opening ceremony, be prepared for a wild ride. There’s no cutting back, the bull riding kicks things off. 8 seconds doesn’t seem long to most of us but that’s how long these Cowboys need to hold on! Hold on tight boys!

The best part of the rodeo – seeing the face of someone experiencing the event for the first time. After the first bull comes out of the gate, you’re experience in Fort Worth has entirely changed. It’s priceless.

Double Mugging and Ranch Vet – These events represent sorting, doctoring and branding these young animals. Remember, all events depict something performed out on the ranch!

Then it’s time to speed things up with a little barrel racing. This is my favorite event. The speed, control and grasp that these ladies and their horses have is amazing! Whip around three barrels (without tipping them over) and back to the gate as quickly as possible.

The rodeo isn’t just an event to watch, you and your family can take part! In between events, the Rodeo Clowns will gather up folks. This particular evening, there was a round for small children (7 and younger) and children slightly older to go down into the arena. A small sheep or calf will be let out with a piece of paper and the children need to be the first one to grab it! If you’re an adult and are thinking “What about me?!”, there’s chances for you too but it wouldn’t be any fun if I told you what they were!

The Cowboys and Cowgirls participating in the rodeo keep this tradition alive. New to the sport or seasoned veterans, this event includes everyone and is for everyone. It’s a huge part of Fort Worth, it’s everywhere you look. History is alive in this town. Come be part of it!
Each Friday & Saturday at 8pm
121 E. Exchange Ave. Fort Worth, TX
1-888-COWTOWN
Tickets: Children 12 and Under $10 Adults $12.50-$22.50