The Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo: Where Tradition Meets Competition in California's Scenic Valley

A PRCA Sanctioned Event Coming June 2025

As the golden California sun begins its summer reign over the Santa Ynez Valley, cowboys and cowgirls from across the nation will once again converge on this historic locale for one of the West Coast's most anticipated rodeo events. The Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo, a proud PRCA-sanctioned competition, returns to the Chumash Arena on June 21-22, 2025, bringing with it the thundering hooves, skillful competitors, and time-honored traditions that have made this event a cornerstone of Santa Ynez heritage.

Deep Roots in California's Rodeo Country

The Santa Ynez Valley has long been cattle country, with ranching traditions dating back to the Spanish colonial era. This picturesque region, nestled in Santa Barbara County's wine country, provides the perfect backdrop for a rodeo that honors the authentic Western lifestyle still thriving in these parts.

The Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo stands as a testament to the valley's commitment to preserving its Western heritage while showcasing the modern competitive sport that rodeo has become. Each year, the event draws thousands of spectators to witness the raw courage, refined skill, and mutual respect between animals and athletes that define professional rodeo.

Two Days of World-Class Competition

Mark your calendars for the weekend of June 21-22, 2025, when the Chumash Arena will transform into the epicenter of rodeo action. With a substantial $80,000 purse at stake, competitors will bring their A-game to this California Circuit event.

The arena gates will swing open each day to welcome spectators to a full slate of PRCA-sanctioned events. Saturday's performances kick off the weekend excitement, while Sunday's showdowns determine who walks away with championship buckles and prize money.

The Main Events: Testing Skill, Courage, and Precision

Fans can expect to witness all seven of rodeo's classic events, each a unique test of cowboy or cowgirl prowess:

Rough Stock Events:

• Bull Riding - Often called the "most dangerous eight seconds in sports," bull riders attempt to stay mounted on a bucking bull while keeping one hand free and demonstrating control and style.

• Bareback Riding - Competitors ride a bucking horse with only a rigging to hold onto, showcasing upper body strength and technical riding ability.

• Saddle Bronc Riding - The classic rodeo event, where riders must demonstrate grace and precise spurring technique while staying aboard a powerful bucking horse.

Timed Events:

• Steer Wrestling - Also known as "bulldogging," this event features cowboys who leap from horseback onto a running steer, using strength and leverage to bring the animal to the ground.

• Tie-Down Roping - A demonstration of precision and teamwork between horse and rider as they chase, rope, and tie a calf in the shortest time possible.

• Team Roping - The only true team event in rodeo, where a header and heeler work in perfect coordination to rope a steer's horns and hind legs.

• Barrel Racing - Showcasing the athleticism of cowgirls and their horses as they navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels at breakneck speeds.

The younger set won't be left out, with special events designed just for them, including the crowd-favorite Mutton Bustin', where future rodeo champions test their mettle atop wooly sheep.

The Competitors: From Local Heroes to National Champions

The Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo has become known as a proving ground where up-and-coming talents can compete alongside seasoned champions. The 2025 event is expected to draw competitors from across the California Circuit and beyond, with many using this mid-season rodeo to strengthen their position in the national standings as they chase dreams of the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.

Local competitors will have home-field advantage and the loudest cheering sections, while traveling professionals will bring world-class talent to the arena. The blend creates an electric atmosphere where every ride and run carries significance in the season-long points chase.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of professionals will ensure the competition runs smoothly—from the stock contractors providing quality bucking stock to the judges evaluating each performance with expert eyes. The arena will come alive with the colorful commentary of professional announcers and the crucial safety presence of rodeo clowns and bullfighters.

Securing Your Spot at the Action

The Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo consistently ranks among the most popular events in the region, with tickets typically becoming available two months before the event. For the 2025 rodeo, tickets are expected to go on sale around April 21, 2025.

Spectators will have various ticketing options to choose from, including general admission, reserved seating, and premium packages. Special rates will be available for seniors, military personnel, and children, making this a budget-friendly family outing.

When tickets become available, they can be purchased directly through this website, ensuring a secure and straightforward transaction. With the Chumash Arena's intimate setting, every seat offers an excellent view of the action, but the limited capacity means tickets often sell quickly—especially for premium seating areas.

For those planning to attend both days of competition, weekend packages will offer the most value while guaranteeing you won't miss a moment of the action. Will-call pickup will be available at the arena for those who prefer not to print tickets at home.

More Than Just Competition: A Festival Atmosphere

While the rodeo competition forms the heart of the weekend, the Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo has evolved into a celebration of Western culture that extends far beyond the arena.

Arrive early to explore the vendor area, where Western wear, handcrafted jewelry, custom leather goods, and rodeo memorabilia await. Food vendors will serve up everything from traditional barbecue to regional specialties, ensuring no one goes hungry while enjoying the festivities.

Live music will set the tone throughout the weekend, with performances before and after the main rodeo events. Local bands will provide the soundtrack to this celebration of Western heritage, with dance-worthy tunes that keep the party going long after the last bull has bucked.

Families will appreciate the kid-friendly activities scheduled throughout the weekend, including face painting, roping dummies for aspiring cowboys and cowgirls, and interactive educational displays about rodeo and ranching life.

Community Spirit: The Heart of the Rodeo

What truly sets the Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo apart is the deep community involvement that has sustained it through the years. Local businesses rally behind the event, providing sponsorships that help maintain the tradition while keeping it accessible to families.

The rodeo committee works year-round to coordinate this massive undertaking, with volunteers from throughout the Santa Ynez Valley contributing countless hours to ensure everything runs smoothly. Their dedication reflects the community's commitment to preserving Western heritage and sharing it with new generations.

The event also serves as a platform for charitable giving, with portions of proceeds supporting local youth programs, agricultural education, and community development initiatives. By attending the rodeo, spectators not only witness world-class competition but also contribute to the vitality of the Santa Ynez Valley community.

Planning Your Visit: The Practical Details

The Chumash Arena offers ample parking for rodeo attendees, with designated areas for standard vehicles, RVs, and accessible parking. Shuttle services will connect overflow parking areas to the main venue during peak attendance times.

The facility is fully accessible, with designated seating areas and pathways for those with mobility challenges. First aid stations will be strategically positioned throughout the grounds, staffed by trained medical professionals ready to address any concerns.

Security personnel will maintain a visible yet unobtrusive presence, ensuring a safe, family-friendly environment throughout the weekend. Clear bag policies and standard venue safety measures will be in effect.

Experience the Tradition in 2025

As June 2025 approaches, anticipation will build for this celebration of Western heritage and competitive spirit. The Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo offers more than just a sporting event—it provides a window into the authentic Western lifestyle that continues to thrive in California's scenic Santa Ynez Valley.

Whether you're a longtime rodeo enthusiast who can distinguish a good ride from a great one or a first-timer curious about this quintessential American tradition, the Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo welcomes you to experience the thrill, skill, and community spirit that have made rodeo an enduring part of American culture.

When the dust settles on the final day, you'll understand why generations of families have made this event an annual tradition—and why the thundering hooves and cheering crowds of the Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo continue to echo through the valley year after year.

Mark your calendars for June 21-22, 2025, and prepare to be part of the tradition. Tickets go on sale in April 2025, right here on this website. Don't miss your chance to witness the magic where heritage meets competition in one unforgettable weekend.