Champagne Meets Cowboy Boots at the Beaver Creek Rodeo

After three years of living in the middle of the Rocky Mountains, I have learned that no matter what the season is, there is always something to do. We keep ourselves occupied in the winter with skiing, sledding, snowmobiling, or whatever else we can think of that is fun in the snow. And when summer hits, in addition to outdoor recreation, we have an endless selection of festivals, outdoor concerts, and even a rodeo.

The Beaver Creek Rodeo, a summertime tradition running on its 18th year, is described as an “authentic yet intimate” rodeo that is sure to please the entire family. During our past 2 summers living in the high country, we have had many invitations from friends to join them at the rodeo. And to be honest, I always assumed rodeos were just people chasing cows and bull riding, so I had no interest in driving from Summit County to watch something I didn’t understand.

This year, we made our move to Vail Valley and I discovered that the rodeo is an event that locals and visitors love to attend. When Vail Resorts reached out and asked if we wanted to check it out, I had to give it a try. There was no way I could turn down this opportunity as a Vail local. So I said yes, took the family to the rodeo, and it turns out, it’s a really good time!

What you need to know:

2019 RODEO DATES 
June 20, 27 | July 11, 18 | August 1, 8, 15

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 

Please note that times may vary.

2:30 – 4:30 p.m. Gold Dust Rodeo Festival
4:30 – 5:00 p.m. Shuttle loop to Rodeo
5:00 p.m. Doors Open
5:30 p.m. Arena Entertainment
5:45 p.m. Grand Entry
5:55 p.m. Bareback Bronc Riding
6:05 p.m. Team Roping
6:25 p.m. Ranch Bronc Riding
6:35 p.m. Calf Scramble
6:50 p.m. Barrel Racing
7:05 p.m. Mutton Bustin’
7:20 p.m. Burro Racing
7:35 p.m. Bull Riding
7:30 – 8:00 p.m. Shuttle loop to Beaver Creek
7:45 – 9:30 p.m. Gold Dust Rodeo Festival

General Admission

Includes access to the Rodeo grounds: arena viewing, vendor access and kids’ activities.

Adult (18-65 years of age) – $22.00

Senior (65 years of age and older) – $17.00

Youth (13-17 years of age) – $12.00

Children (12 years of age and under) – FREE

VIP

Includes access to the Rodeo grounds: arena viewing, vendor access and kids’ activities. As well as, access to preferred arena viewing and a VIP bar.

Adults, Seniors and Youth (13 years of age and older) – $27.00

Children (12 years of age and under) – FREE

Vail Resorts provided us with VIP tickets which was not much different from general admission except for the bathrooms. General admission had porta-potties and VIP had a giant portable bathroom with real flushing toilets, sinks, and mirrors. I hate porta-potties so much that I would definitely pay extra not to use them. So keep that in mind when purchasing your tickets!

There were several kids activities from face painting, to a bouncy house, an area to meet ponies and an archery station. You can also register your kids for the Calf Scramble, where the kids have to chase the cows for ribbons on their tails, or the Mutton Bustin’ where children under 50 lbs get to ride a sheep and attempt to hold on (both events are hilarious!)

My husband and I enjoyed the VIP bar where the offerings included champagne, beer, and whiskey. The entire setting was very intimate so we found it wasn’t necessary to stay in the stadium seats. We would grab a drink, walk around and stop near the gates to get a front-row view of the events. It was fun, entertaining, and just the perfect way to spend a Thursday night.

I think we’re going to make this a summer tradition from now on. If you’re like me and think this isn’t your scene, I encourage you to give it a try! Remember, this is Beaver Creek, a world-class ski destination so even if you are a real cowboy, a city slicker, or a mountain hippie like me, you’ll have a great time at this fun little rodeo in the middle of the Rockies.