The Rodeo of the Ozarks is an annual outdoor rodeo in Springdale, Arkansas, traditionally held around the Fourth of July since its founding in 1944-45 by local feed store owners Thurman 'Shorty' Parsons and Dempsey Letsch. It has ranked among the top five largest outdoor rodeos in the United States.
The Rodeo of the Ozarks was born out of wartime restlessness.
The rodeo's origin story reflects its wartime founding: with World War II at its height and entertainment scarce, two Oklahoma construction workers, Paul Bond and Bill Kelley, pitched the idea to Springdale feed store owners Thurman 'Shorty' Parsons and Dempsey Letsch, who staged the first performance July 1, 3, and 4, 1945
The event survived a rocky start, when bleachers collapsed during the first year and sent 300 spectators to the hospital, none seriously injured, and the town officially adopted the Rodeo of the Ozarks name the following year
In 2008, the rodeo was ranked among the top five largest outdoor rodeos in the country, and it now generates an estimated 6 to 7 million dollars in economic impact for Northwest Arkansas annually
The rodeo continues the American outdoor rodeo tradition
tying professional rodeo competition to Fourth of July community celebration
a pairing common across small Western and Southern towns since the mid-20th century
Dates TBA · Usually July
For Rodeo of the Ozarks, plan transport around the exact Springdale venue, route or gathering point rather than the city name alone.
Casual Western wear is common, including boots, jeans, and hats, though any comfortable summer clothing works; expect hot, humid early-July evenings typical of Northwest Arkansas.
Keep valuables light, follow local instructions, and watch how residents use the space before joining in.
For Rodeo of the Ozarks, stay near the part of Springdale you will actually use, with reliable return transport.
Check official or local sources for ticketed areas, paid stands, and same-year access rules.
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Rodeo of the Ozarks is listed for July · Summer. Always re-check the official or local source close to travel.
The festival is listed in Springdale, United States. The map coordinate is a planning reference, not a guarantee of a ticket gate or exact venue.
Summer is the listed festival span. Add time for arrival, local transport, queues, and any route changes during the event.
Official source linked. Eventisimus separates source confidence from travel suggestions, so check final details before booking.
Springdale, AR
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