Get ready to saddle up and experience the thrill of the Wild West, because this summer, Edson and its surrounding area are gearing up to host five electrifying rodeos that promise to leave you wanting more. From heart-pounding bull rides to dazzling displays of horsemanship, these rodeos are the highlight of the season for any cowboy or cowgirl. So dust off your boots and mark your calendars, because these are the rodeos you won't want to miss out on this summer!
1. Brule Ruffout Rodeo
Right around the corner is the Brule Ruffout Rodeo, which began as a small 4-H club in 1967. What started as a humble endeavor soon blossomed into a beloved tradition.
Over the years, the Brule Ruffout Rodeo has evolved into a spectacle encompassing various thrilling kids’ gymkhana events. From sheep riding to barrels, mini ponies to flags, and even a greased pig chase, the rodeo offers a vibrant tapestry of entertainment. Professional saddle bronc riders from afar have lent their skill to enrich the festivities, adding to the allure of the event.
Despite its growth, the core essence of the Brule Ruffout Rodeo remains rooted in its dedication to children. For 52 years, it has stood as a beacon for fostering a space where kids can thrive, compete, and revel in the joy of camaraderie.
Following the exhilaration of the rodeo, head to the Brule Community Hall for a dance, featuring live music by Mel Brown and Allen Christie.
For those planning to stay overnight, the Brule Community Society Campground warmly welcomes you. Horses are allowed in the campground for a nominal fee of $20 per unit per night. Secure your spot by booking via email at Brulecampground@outlook.com.
Tickets for the 57th annual Brule Ruffout Rodeo are available at the Huckleberry General Store or through phone reservation at 780-865-4777. While tickets will be sold at the rodeo office and at the door, early booking is advised to secure your spot!
If you are not able to make it out to the rodeo, you can catch it on the Cowboy Channel Plus app!
Brule, AB
May 4 | Starting at 12 pm
2. Medicine Lodge Rodeo
The Medicine Lodge Rodeo was started in 1980 by Alma Anderson, who (rightly!) believed that being a cowboy was something to be proud of. The Anderson family proudly upholds this belief, working to deliver a truly authentic western experience to both contestants and spectators alike during this Mother‘s Day weekend event.
Throughout the years, this grassroots event has entrenched itself as a beloved tradition in our greater community, drawing attendees from far and wide! It has expanded to encompass a range of WRA-sanctioned activities, from thrilling saddle bronc and tie-down roping to the exhilarating 'Pot of Gold' bareback competition, and beyond.
Throughout the weekend you can expect classic rodeo events like saddle bronc, tie-down roping, steer wrestling and more, with special highlights including an all-girls/ladies rodeo on Friday night, a cowboy church service on Sunday morning, a kids dance on Friday night, an adults-only bonfire dance on Saturday night and much, much more.
Be sure to keep an eye out for Squirrelly Early Anderson – Medicine Lodge’s token rodeo clown who will be out and about entertaining the crowd.
During Sunday's rodeo program, often coinciding with Mother's Day, mothers and grandmothers in attendance are treated to gifts, awarded through Squirrelly Early Anderson's entertaining activities. One coveted prize is the "hairiest legs" award.
Other exciting events include mutton bustin', cowgirl cow riding, mini chuckwagon races and the hilarious lawn mower races.
The Medicine Lodge Rodeo is deeply committed to community service. From 2005 to 2012, they supported Braden Mole's fundraising efforts for the Edmonton Stollery Children's Hospital, a commitment that continues today. In 2021, the Saturday auction raised an impressive $100,000 for the Stollery Children's Hospital, with a further $51,000 raised in 2022. Additionally, in 2022 and 2023, they proudly sponsored a youngster to attend a summer camp for Kids Horsemanship.
For more information about the Medicine Lodge Rodeo and its history, click here.
Medicine Lodge Rodeo Grounds (1.6 km south on Range Road 213)
May 10-12, 2024 | Starting at 4 pm on May 10
3. Mustachio Bullbashio
Head out to Element Zone 13 on May 24 and 25 for an exhilarating weekend of freestyle bullfights, bull riding and much more, all while raising money for men’s mental health.
At the heart of Mustachio Bullbashio is the highly-anticipated moustache competition, which inspires men to grow out their moustaches for a shot at becoming the champion. This year, the winner will not only receive bragging rights but will also be gifted a stunning buckle courtesy of the Boot Shop Saddlery & Western Wear, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting a charity aiding men's mental health.
The event will showcase classic Element Zone 13 events on Friday night, including freestyle bullfights with Gringo Bulls, bull and cow riding, bull poker, Ring of Fear and much more. Bull Riders Canada-sanctioned bull riding kicks off at 7 pm on Saturday.
Attendees can also enjoy food trucks and beer gardens throughout the weekend, as well as a live music performance by Cole Malone on Saturday night.
The organizers are committed to continuing the event in support of men's mental health.
Element Zone 13 (54011 Range Road 171, Yellowhead County)
May 24-25, 2024 | Starting at 7 pm on May 24
3. Wildwood Bronc Bustin'
Wildwood Bronc’ Bustin is a pioneering Saddle Bronc Event, the first of its kind in Canada. Its founder, Rod Hay - who was inducted into Canada’s Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2019 - works with the WCB committee to make this exciting annual event bigger and better every year.
This CPRA and PRCA-sanctioned competition contributes to the prize money for the Canadian Finals Rodeo in late October and the National Finals Rodeo in December. It showcases the thrilling matchup of champion cowboys versus champion horses, attracting world and Canadian champions to ride some of the finest horses.
The event features other exciting events like the Calcutta auction and post-ride dance.
Thanks to the Agricultural Societies Infrastructure Revitalization Grant, new covered bleachers have been installed at the grounds to enhance spectator comfort.
Wildwood Rodeo Grounds (5140 - 50th Street, Wildwood, AB)
June 15, 2024 | TBD
5. Rank Mini Pony Reunion
Curious about the journeys of former Rank Mini Pony riders? Wonder no more! Join Element Zone 13 for an exhilarating showcase at the Rank Mini Pony Reunion, an under 21 rough stock event where the next generation of rodeo stars takes center stage! This event is open to all under the age of 21, offering a thrilling glimpse into the future of rodeo.
Rank Mini Pony stands as Canada's premier youth rodeo sanctioning body. Over the past six years, they’ve proudly nurtured talent that has risen to the top, producing two Junior World Champions. Their operations in Edson have served as a driving force for the growth of rodeo, igniting passion and skill in young riders.
Additionally, Rank Mini Pony also made history as the first Canadian body to qualify contestants for the JR NFR in Las Vegas. Along the way, they’ve even crowned a pair of World Champions, a testament to the caliber of talent the organization cultivates.
Element Zone 13 (54011 Range Road 171, Yellowhead County)
August 16 | Starting at 7 pm
Which rodeo will you attend in Edson & area this summer?