Do They Have Rodeos in North Carolina?

Do They Have Rodeos in North Carolina? Explore Rodeos events, youth associations, professional teams, and insider tips for experiencing authentic Western culture in North Carolina.

North Carolina’s Rich Rodeo Culture

North Carolina’s rodeo scene offers a thrilling blend of Western traditions, professional competition, and family-friendly entertainment that captivates audiences from across the state. Beyond its beautiful Atlantic coastline and famous barbecue, North Carolina hosts a dynamic rodeo circuit that features everything from bull riding championships to community-focused events. The state’s rodeo culture not only preserves the western heritage but also provides competitive opportunities for athletes and engaging entertainment for families.

With numerous rodeo associations, professional teams and annual events, North Carolina has established itself as a major center for rodeo enthusiasts in the southeastern United States.

🐎 Major Rodeo Events in North Carolina: 2025 Calendar

North Carolina’s rodeo calendar offers exciting events throughout the year. Here are some of the most notable rodeos taking place across the state:

1. Rodeo Carolina

Hosted by the World Champions Rodeo Alliance (WCRA), Rodeo Carolina offers six figures in prize money, attracting top talent from across the country. This prestigious event showcases the highest level of rodeo competition in the state.

2. Madison County Championship Rodeo

Held every second Saturday night, this regular event features a variety of competitions including sheep riding, barrel racing, wild horse riding, steer riding, bull riding, and dog riding. The rodeo also includes a children’s dance competition with cash prizes, making it especially family-friendly.

3. Day of the Cowboy Rodeo

This July event in Lumberbridge features traditional rodeo events including bronc riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing and roping. The celebration also includes shopping from local artisans and classic fair food, creating a complete Western experience.

4. Jr’s Great American Rodeo for Do They Have Rodeos in North Carolina?

Held in Morganton during September, the event features bull riding, barrel racing and bronc riding. The rodeo also offers mutton busting competitions for kids, introducing younger generations to rodeo traditions in a safe environment.

5. Old Fort Rodeo (July 3-4, 2025)

This Independence Day celebration combines professional rodeo action with fireworks, creating a patriotic family experience. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and shows begin at 7:30 p.m.

Notable North Carolina Rodeo Events 2025

Event Name	Location	Date	Special Features
Rodeo Carolina	Multiple Locations	TBA 2025	$100,000+ prize money
Madison County Championship	Madison County	Bi-weekly	Kids’ competitions
Day of the Cowboy	Lumber Bridge	July 2025	Local artisans, fair food
Jr’s Great American	Morganton	September 2025	Mutton bustin’ for kids
Old Fort Rodeo	Old Fort	July 3-4, 2025	Fireworks display

🤠 North Carolina Rodeo Associations: Developing Talent and Traditions

North Carolina’s rodeo culture is supported by several organizations that nurture talent and promote western sports:

North Carolina High School Rodeo Association (NCHSRA)

The association develops the next generation of equestrians from kindergarten through high school, with instructional programs including bull riding, steer wrestling, calf roping, and barrel racing. According to Richard Eisley of Equine Event Planning, “The N.C. High School Rodeo Association is not only helping students promote our western heritage, but also creating opportunities for them to further their education.”

North Carolina Professional Rodeo Association (NCPRA)

The NCPRA approves professional rodeo events statewide, with specific guidelines for entry fees, additional funds, and eligibility requirements for their finals. For the 2025 season, a rodeo must have “3 NCPRA pre-sanctioned rodeos and a total of 8 rodeos” to count toward the NCPRA finals.

Southern Rodeo Association (SRA)

The SRA coordinates with North Carolina events, with requirements that competitors “must compete in 5 SRA-sanctioned rodeos prior to qualifying for the finals.” Their system includes detailed entry procedures, fee structures, and turnout policies.

🧒 Educational Aspects: Youth Rodeo Programs

Do They Have Rodeos in North Carolina? North Carolina’s commitment to rodeo extends to comprehensive youth development programs. The North Carolina Youth Rodeo Association (NCRA) and North Carolina High School Rodeo Association (NCHSRA) provide organized avenues for young enthusiasts to learn and compete. These organizations divide their programs into three segments that serve children from kindergarten to 18 and older, teaching essential rodeo skills with an emphasis on safety and sportsmanship.

The educational value of these programs extends beyond riding skills. Participants learn discipline, responsibility, and respect for animals while preserving Western heritage. As rodeo experts have noted, these programs create valuable opportunities for participants to potentially earn educational scholarships through competition.

⚡ Unique Rodeo Variations: Lineman’s Rodeos

Beyond the traditional rodeo events, North Carolina hosts special linemen’s rodeos that showcase the skills of electrical line workers. The competitions test skills in job-related tasks including pole climbing, equipment repair, and simulated rescue operations.

In April 2025, 30 Duke Energy linemen from across the Carolinas qualified for the International Linemen Rodeo through regional competitions. These events emphasize safety procedures, teamwork, and technical expertise rather than traditional rodeo skills.

The NC Association of Municipal Electric Systems (NCAMES) also hosts an annual linemen’s rodeo, where participants like Wake Forest Power’s Hugo Meyer have demonstrated exceptional skills in events including Hurtman Rescue, Tie and Untie, and Obstacle Courses.

🏆 Professional Rodeo Scene: Carolina Cowboys

North Carolina is represented in professional rodeo by the Carolina Cowboys, the Carolinas’ only professional bull riding team competing in the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Team Series. The team relocated to Greensboro in 2023, hosting its “Cowboy Days” homestand at the Greensboro Coliseum.

Led by general manager Austin Dillon (2018 Daytona 500 champion) and owned by Richard Childress and Jeff Braun, the team is coached by PBR co-founder and North Carolina native Jerome Davis. This professional connection provides North Carolina rodeo fans with access to the highest level of bull riding competition.

📊 Spectator’s Guide: Enjoying North Carolina Rodeos

For those new to the rodeo scene, here’s what to expect and how to maximize your experience:

Typical Rodeo Events

Most North Carolina rodeos feature a mix of:

Rough Stock Events: Bareback Riding, Saddlebred Riding, and Bull Riding.
Timed Events: Calf Roping, Team Roping, Steer Wrestling, and Barrel Racing
Special Attractions: Mutton Busting for Kids, Live Music, and Local Food Vendors

Ticket Information

Ticket prices vary by event, with weekly passes for larger events like the National Little Birches Finals costing around $30 in advance. Many local rodeos offer affordable family pricing, with some community events offering free admission for young children.

Preparation Tips

Dress comfortably for outdoor weather conditions
Arrive early to secure parking and good seats
Bring cash for vendors who may not accept credit cards
Check age restrictions for special events and activities

North Carolina’s Rodeo Heritage Thrives

North Carolina’s vibrant rodeo culture offers something for everyone, from professional athletes to families looking for fun. With numerous events throughout the state throughout the year, rodeo enthusiasts have plenty of opportunities to experience the excitement of the western sport.

The state’s commitment to developing future generations of rodeo participants through youth associations and educational programs ensures that these traditions will continue for years to come. Meanwhile, professional organizations such as the Carolina Cowboys and major events such as Rodeo Carolina provide high-level competition for serious fans.

Whether you’re a lifelong rodeo enthusiast or a first-timer, North Carolina’s rodeo scene welcomes you to experience the thrill, tradition and community that define this quintessentially American tradition.

North Carolina Rodeo Associations Overview

Association	Focus	Membership	Key Events
NCHSRA	Youth development	K-12 students	State championships
NCPRA	Professional rodeo	Adult competitors	NCPRA Finals
SRA	Regional competitions	All ages	Multiple sanctioned events