Mark your calendars: In just 21 days, the Reno Rodeo returns with new fan experiences, arena entertainment and a patriotic theme as organizers prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday alongside one of Northern Nevada’s biggest annual traditions.
“Our theme for 2026 is ‘America Loves Rodeo’,” President Mark Sutton said.
The rodeo runs June 18-27 and has been part of the community since 1919, growing from a three-day event into a 10-day event.
Organizers said the event generates an estimated $40 million to $50 million in economic impact over a two- to three-week period, supporting local businesses across the region.
Volunteers continue to play a major role in making the event happen each year.
“We could not do what we do each year without the 1,000-plus volunteers that put this event on and help us every year,” Sutton said.
New this year, an indoor viewing party inside the indoor arena will give people without performance tickets a chance to watch rodeo action on a large screen for a $10 grounds fee while still accessing vendors and activities across the grounds.
The Doc Bar Speakeasy is also expanding this year’s lineup with themed activations inside the indoor arena, including a Father’s Day Brunch on June 21, Trivia Tuesday on June 23 featuring questions tied to Americana, Nevada history, PRCA rodeo and Reno Rodeo traditions, and Wolf Pack Wednesday on June 24, where fans are encouraged to wear silver and blue.
The Double Dip Horse Show will make its Reno Rodeo debut June 24-27 in the indoor arena. The free event, co-hosted with AJA Equine, begins at noon each day and includes Sierra Nevada Horse Show Association-approved classes, stake money classes and an ice cream social.
Award-winning rodeo entertainer Justin Rumford, known to many fans as “Rumps,” will make his first Reno Rodeo appearance June 18-22. Rumford has earned multiple PRCA Clown of the Year honors. Matt Merritt will perform June 23-27.
Summer & Company will also debut as the rodeo’s new specialty act, featuring fast-paced trick and Roman riding performances from Summer and her daughters, Emmie and Jinsen.
Organizers said fans will also have expanded opportunities to buy discounted carnival wristbands in advance through Grocery Outlet and Nevada State Bank locations.
Organizers are also rolling out new 2026 Reno Rodeo commercials ahead of this year’s event, highlighting the “America Loves Rodeo” theme and traditions fans can expect this summer.
The Reno Rodeo Foundation continues its year-round work supporting children and families.
“We’re able to support our community 365 days out of the year,” Executive Director Cherie Bullard said.
Programs include a denim drive for children in foster care running May 1 through June 30, along with scholarships, reading rooms in family court buildings and a rodeo wish program for children with long-term conditions.
The Reno Rodeo will also kickoff the annual event with its popular concert series, featuring Dylan Scott on Wednesday, June 17, ahead of opening night.
Organizers said the rodeo continues to draw people from across the country and around the world, with some events, including the cattle drive, selling out well in advance and, in some cases, years ahead of time.
This year’s rodeo will feature a mix of returning favorites and new attractions across the grounds throughout the 10-day event.
Tickets are available through official Reno Rodeo channels online and at the Reno Rodeo Association office at the Nevada State Fairgrounds. Organizers recommend buying them early as many performances sell out.
More information is available on the Reno Rodeo’s website.
The Reno Rodeo is being held at the Reno Livestock Events Center. It starts on Thursday June 18th and runs through the 27th.
