Pendleton Round-Up
Guess what ya'll? We're participating in the Pendleton Round-up this year, so we thought it would be fitting to shed some light on this exciting week and what it's all about!
The first Pendleton Round-Up followed a July 4th celebration in 1909 consisting of bronc riding, horse races by Indians and Non-Indians, Indian feasts and war dances, greased pig contests, sack races, foot races and fireworks. It was after this event that community leaders came together and decided that Pendleton Round-Up would be an annual event that would commence around the middle of September. This allowed grain farmers time to complete their harvest, and the livestock owners time to get in their late summer check-ups.
The first official documented show was held in 1910 with 7,000 attendees and the entire town closed their shops. Growth and acceptance of the round-up exceeded all expectations, even after closing for two years due to WWII.
One aspect of this rodeo that we LOVE is the fact that they do not allow sponsorships inside the arena. No signage and no sponsor flags have touched the arena in order to keep the true Western traditional look. When is the last time you remember addending a rodeo that didn't have sponsor adds decorating the chutes and fencing?! We think it's awesome that Pendleton is trying to preserve the history look. Also, in 1951 the stadium was turfed in order to be used for football games. Rodeo on grass...what?!
The rodeo is of course the highlight and heart of Round-Up week, but the entire town transforms into a fun-filled festival with activities for anyone and everyone! Main Street is closed to motorized traffic and filled with vendors, carnival rides, and live music!
The festivities kick off at 10am Saturday September 8th and end late Saturday September 15th! Everyday day there are multiple activities and things to keep ya entertained! If you want the full schedule of the weeks events, follow the link below:
https://www.pendletonroundup.com/p/round-up/309
We are so excited to be apart of this historic event this year and we will have our vendor booth up from Tuesday 9/11-Saturday 9/15! Make sure you stop by and say hello! Keep an eye out on our social media outlets for updates and behind the scenes!
We hope to see you there!
xoxo,
Rural Haze Gals