A Tradition Revived
Each August, Bozeman transforms into a hub of adrenaline, tradition, and hometown pride as the Bozeman Stampede rolls into town. This weekend marks the 15th year of the event, running Thursday through Saturday at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds. What began in 2010 as a grassroots effort to bring sanctioned rodeo back to Bozeman after a 50-year absence has grown into one of the area’s most anticipated summer events—drawing professional rodeo athletes, local fans, and visitors from across Montana and beyond.
Giving Back to the Community
The Stampede’s founding vision was clear: to revive a cornerstone of Western heritage while giving back to the community. Over the years, it has succeeded on all counts. Since its inception, the Bozeman Stampede has donated more than $250,000 to local youth agricultural programs, including Montana State University Bobcat Rodeo, Gallatin 4-H, and Bridger High School Rodeo. These contributions not only strengthen the rodeo community but also invest in the next generation of ranchers, riders, and agricultural leaders.
Action Under the Big Sky
The competition is pure rodeo magic. Each night kicks off with high-energy events like bareback and saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, breakaway roping, and barrel racing—plus the main event for many spectators, professional bull riding. A giant video screen ensures no one misses a second of the action, and the crowd’s energy is electric from the first ride to the final eight seconds. For a bit of extra flair, special events like “Pink It Up Night” bring the community together for causes like breast cancer awareness, while the much-loved Bull Scramble offers a wild, unpredictable spectacle.
More Than a Rodeo
The Bozeman Stampede is as much about community as it is competition. Families fill the stands, food trucks and vendors line the fairgrounds, and the sound of live announcers and cheering fans fills the summer air. Each evening ends in true Montana style, with fireworks lighting up the sky against the backdrop of the Bridger Mountains. It’s a perfect blend of big-city excitement and small-town charm, reminding everyone why Bozeman continues to be a place where Western tradition thrives.
Don’t Miss the Fun
Whether you’re a lifelong rodeo fan or just looking for a memorable summer night out, the Bozeman Stampede offers something for everyone. It’s where grit meets grace, where cowboys and cowgirls put their skills to the test, and where the community comes together under the Big Sky. So dust off your boots, grab your hat, and head to the fairgrounds—because the Bozeman Stampede is here, and it’s ready to deliver three nights of unforgettable Montana magic.
All Photo Credit: Bozeman Stampede.
