Society, and the landscape of Osceola County, have changed, but one thing remains constant — twice a year, it’s rodeo time at the Silver Spurs Arena!
Next week, May 30-31, the 155th installment of the Silver Spurs Rodeo makes its summer appearance.
Since the first rodeo was held on July 4, 1944 as a World War II bond effort, the Silver Spurs Rodeo has become an iconic event, symbolizing the closeknit fabric of founding members of multi-generational families, who in turn have created new generations of rodeo fans.
“For more than 80 years, our fans have stood by us, and it’s because of their support that we’re able to give back to the community we love,” said Rodeo Big Boss Randy Booth, who will preside over the rodeo as his final act in his year at the helm.
“Every summer, it’s a true honor for the Silver Spurs Club to recognize and give back to the service members who have given so much to all of us. Serving those who’ve served our country is one of our most meaningful traditions.”
And just like in years past, those fans will be treated to seven traditional rodeo events: bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, women’s barrel racing, steer wrestling, and team roping. In a unique nod to the younger generation for the summer rodeo, junior barrel racers and junior bull riders are part of the action and the quest for prize money, and the Junior Silver Spurs Quadrille which features teenagers performing the traditional “Square Dance on horseback,” and Mutton bustin’, the colorful sheep racing event for the youngest competitors, returns during breaks in the action.
The rodeo will crown a new female ambassador on Thursday, May 29, when the weekend kicks off with the Miss Silver Spurs Pageant. Bailee Jeannin, the first Osceola County young lady to have held all three titles of Little Miss, Junior Miss and Miss Silver Spurs, will pass the crown on to another deserving fan of rodeo to take the tradition of the Silver Spurs across the state.
Tickets range from $2535 depending on seating for adults, $15 for ages 4-10 and three and under are free. For both nights, as a way to honor the sacrifice of military members, veterans and those on active duty may also receive a free hot dog or hamburger with a drink when they attend the rodeo, with proof of service at the box office with their ticket.
Proceeds from ticket sales support thousands of dollars in grants for area nonprofits and causes like scholarships, cancer support, military organizations, foster care, and more.
