Experience the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo and more in Salt Lake. Watch professional bull riders (PBR) compete downtown at the Delta Center and in the summer, head just 10 minutes west of downtown to see the Only Gold Medal Rodeo in the World at the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo.
From rodeos that light up summer nights to fall roundups against the backdrop of the Great Salt Lake, we've got a year-round lineup that proves our Western heritage is anything but history. Dust off your boots – or grab some new ones at City Creek shopping center – and let's show you how Salt Lake does western.
Major Events Guide: Year-Round Western Action
Utah Days of '47 Rodeo
Late July | Utah State Fairpark
Sure, lots of cities have rodeos. But the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo in Salt Lake? This is where top-ranked cowboys and cowgirls compete in one of Utah's biggest professional rodeos, all while the sun sets behind the Wasatch Mountains. Where else can you watch championship bull riding and barrel racing with a backdrop that goes from cityscape to mountaintop in one glance (Not bad for a mountain town, eh)?
What Makes It Special:
- Top contestants from each event compete in thrilling final rounds.
- Evening performances, live music, pony rides and more make this a family event you don't want to miss!
- The only rodeo where you might see a cowboy grab lunch at an iconic restaurant.
Local's Tips:
- Come early to catch the action with mechanical bull rides, a petting zoo, pony rides food trucks and more!
- Purchase your seats early for the best views of the action.
- Stay for the live music in the Fun Zone starting around 10:45pm!
Winter Roundup
February | Downtown Salt Lake
Where else can you watch skiers getting pulled by horses through downtown streets while the Wasatch peaks create the perfect snowy backdrop? Only in Salt Lake, where we turn winter into an art form. The Utah Days of '47 Rodeo crew is joining the fun too, because nothing says "Salt Lake winter" quite like combining world-class winter sports with our western heritage. Trust us, this isn't your typical winter festival - it's what happens when Salt Lake decides to turn up the heat on our coldest season.
What Makes It Special:
- Skijoring is a heart-pounding sport that combines ski racing with rodeo, where horses pull skiers through downtown Salt Lake.
- It’s family-friendly with action-packed sports days and pony rides to line dancing and live music.
- Experience Salt Lake’s western heritage at Winter Roundup in partnership with Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo.
Professional Bull Riders (PBR) at the Delta Center
February 2025 | Delta Center
Picture this: World-class bull riders, 2,000-pound bulls, and a packed arena right in the heart of downtown. Oh, and you can take TRAX light rail to get there. Only in Salt Lake do we bring the wildest western sport to an NBA arena (Yes, the same place where the Utah Jazz play! We're versatile like that).
What Sets It Apart:
- Urban setting with all downtown amenities.
- State-of-the-art video displays and sound system.
- Premium seating options with VIP experiences.
- Walk to dozens of restaurants and bars after the event.
Pro Tips:
- Book a hotel and make it a weekend!
- Grab dinner before the event and make it a night!
- Elevate your PBR experience with Premium Seating and Experiences, offering exclusive behind-the-scenes access, exhilarating bull housing tours, luxurious chute seats, and coveted dirt suites!
Utah State Fair Rodeo
Early September | Utah State Fairpark
The Utah State Fair Rodeo has been proudly PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) approved for over 35 thrilling years. Every year, top cowboys and cowgirls from around the globe converge for one last chance to earn big bucks and qualify for the prestigious NFR in December. This epic showdown unfolds at a 10,000-seat, state-of-the-art, 'Utah Days of '47' Rodeo outdoor arena.
Highlights:
- Traditional PRCA rodeo events.
- Full fair experience included with ticket.
- Perfect for families and first-time rodeo goers.
Inside Scoop:
- Combine with a day at the fair for best value.
- Don't miss the mutton bustin' (kids riding sheep – it's adorable).
- Try the famous fair scones (trust us on this one).
Antelope Island Bison Roundup
Late October | Antelope Island State Park
This isn't just a show – it's a genuine working roundup where cowboys and cowgirls gather nearly 700 bison for their annual health check. Against the backdrop of the Great Salt Lake and Wasatch Mountains, it's about as Instagram-worthy as Western heritage gets.
Why It's Special:
- One of the largest publicly viewable bison roundups in the country.
- Combines real ranching work with public viewing opportunities.
- Stunning natural setting on Antelope Island.
- Chance to see one of the oldest and largest public bison herds in the nation.
Insider Tips for Visitors:
- Book early morning viewing for the best light and action.
- Bring binoculars and a long camera lens.
- Pack layers – October mornings can be chilly.
- Stay for sunset when the lake turns golden.
Beyond the Arena: Salt Lake's Year-Round Western Scene
Western Heritage Trail
- Skip the rental car and hop on TRAX to explore all the history Salt Lake has to offer!
- Go from sites like the Pioneer Memorial Museum to This Is The Place Heritage Park, where you can try your hand at pioneer skills or watch blacksmiths at work.
Cowboy Culture & Shopping
- Browse authentic western wear at Two Roads Hat Co. (Be warned: seeing yourself wearing one in the mirror might make you swear).
- Catch live country music at The Westerner
- Take beginner riding lessons at This Is The Place Heritage Park
Venue Guide
Utah State Fairpark
The go-to venue for many Western events, Utah State Fairpark offers ample amenities and easy access.
- Transit: 10-minute drive from downtown, TRAX Green Line access
- Nearby Attractions: Gateway Mall, Clark Planetarium
Delta Center
Right in the heart of downtown, the Delta Center is perfect for visitors wanting a Western experience with an urban flair.
- Transit: TRAX Blue and Green Lines stop directly at the venue
Antelope Island State Park
A must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, Antelope Island offers breathtaking views and an authentic western vibe.
- Transit: 30-minute drive from downtown Salt Lake City
- Amenities: Visitor center, restrooms, picnic areas
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
Transportation
- Use TRAX light rail for downtown events
- Rent a car for Antelope Island trips
- Rideshare readily available downtown
- Free downtown parking weekends at City Creek
Family Tips
- Most events suitable for ages 5+
- Bring hearing protection for young kids
- Book afternoon shows for easier scheduling
- Look for special family ticket packages
Parking Information
- Downtown: Ample parking garages near the Delta Center
- Antelope Island: On-site parking available
The Salt Lake Difference
What makes our western scene special? It's all about the blend. Where else can you watch world-class bull riding, grab sushi for dinner, then cap off the night with line dancing and live country music? Only in Salt Lake do urban sophistication and Western heritage ride so perfectly together.