News Summary
The California Rodeo Salinas concluded its 115th year, attracting 68,000 attendees. While participation reached high levels, local businesses experienced mixed effects. Events included traditional rodeo competitions and community activities, highlighting Salinas’ unique heritage. The rodeo continues to support local initiatives, donating significant sums to nonprofits and educational scholarships.
California – The California Rodeo Salinas wrapped up its 115th year today, continuing a beloved tradition that has spanned over a century. This year’s event attracted approximately 68,000 attendees over five days, although ticket sales saw a slight decline compared to the previous year as prices increased for the first time since 2012.
The rodeo experienced high levels of participation, with specific events such as the Extreme Bulls and Friday night’s rodeo reaching full capacity. Nonetheless, some local businesses reported lower foot traffic, particularly Dubbers, a popular local establishment. To address the decrease in customers during the night, the bartending staff suggested extended tent hours to boost nighttime business.
In contrast, Villa Azteca, another local business, reported high customer volume throughout the weekend, expressing gratitude for the strong community support during the event. The differing experiences of these businesses highlight the mixed effects that the rodeo had on the local economy.
This year’s rodeo included several exciting features and outcomes. Notable participants Jake Barnes and Clay Cooper won the PRCA Gold Card Team Roping, adding another significant victory to their storied careers. Salinas is recognized for distinctive rodeo traditions, including a unique scoring system utilizing a 40-foot-long scoreline for ropers, setting this event apart from others in the region.
The rodeo festivities also incorporated a range of attractions including a parade, cowboy poetry, and a Special Buckaroos Rodeo designed specifically for children with special needs. These elements contribute to the community’s overall enjoyment and engagement with the rodeo.
Established in 1911, the California Rodeo Salinas boasts deep community roots and substantial support from local agricultural businesses, which enhance its unique character and operations. Significant events such as the Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon and the Forever Royal Reunion contributed to the celebratory atmosphere of this year’s rodeo.
Barnes commended Salinas for its welcoming atmosphere and rich traditions, sharing hopes for expanding participation limits that currently restrict the event to 100 teams. In addition to the professional rodeo competitions, attendees also enjoyed a variety of activities, including a carnival and wine tasting, appealing to both locals and visitors alike.
To improve guest experiences and manage the large attendance, this year’s rodeo introduced free off-site parking and shuttle services, which facilitated smoother access to the event grounds.
Beyond the entertainment value, the California Rodeo Salinas remains committed to supporting local causes. This year, the organization donated nearly $800,000 to various nonprofit initiatives and provided $30,000 in scholarships to local students, underscoring its role as a pillar of the community.
As the California Rodeo Salinas marks the conclusion of its 115th iteration, it sets its sights on the future, planning to celebrate its 115th anniversary from July 17 to 20 in 2025. The continued evolution of this cherished event aims to balance the rich traditions of the past with the vibrant interests of the present, ensuring its legacy for future generations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Team Roping Journal: Jake and Clay Strike Again at California Rodeo Salinas
- Wikipedia: California
- KSBW: California Rodeo Salinas Business Impacts
- Google Search: California Rodeo Salinas
- Monterey Herald: California Rodeo Salinas Kicks Off 115th Year
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rodeo
- Salinas Valley Tribune: Lancaster Wins Miss California Rodeo Salinas 2025 Title
- Google News: California Rodeo Salinas
Author: STAFF HERE MISSION VIEJO WRITER
MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER The MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMissionViejo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Mission Viejo, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Oso Fit 5K Fun Run and Community Health Fair, Walk Against Drugs & Community Fair, and National Night Out. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce and Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, plus leading businesses in retail and education that power the local economy such as The Shops at Mission Viejo, Capistrano Unified School District, and Amazon Delivery Station. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
