News Summary

The California Rodeo Salinas concluded its 115th year, attracting 68,000 attendees despite slightly lower ticket sales due to increased prices. Mixed impacts were felt among local businesses, with some seeing declines while others thrived. The event featured special attractions and strong community involvement, enhancing the rodeo’s legacy. Future enhancements aim to improve guest experiences for the upcoming anniversary in 2025.

California Rodeo Salinas Concludes Its 115th Year, Mixed Effects on Local Businesses

The California Rodeo Salinas marked its conclusion today, celebrating over a century of rodeo tradition in the state. The annual event, which ran for five days, attracted approximately 68,000 attendees. However, this year’s ticket sales were slightly lower than last year’s figures, a decline attributed to increased ticket prices for the first time since 2012.

Mandy Linquist, the marketing manager for the rodeo, highlighted that certain events, including the Extreme Bulls and the Friday night rodeo, achieved sellout status, illustrating sustained enthusiasm for these particular attractions. Despite the overall decline in ticket sales, specific events showcased the continual strong demand for rodeo entertainment.

Impact on Local Businesses

Local businesses demonstrated mixed results during the rodeo. Some establishments, such as Dubbers, reported a decline in foot traffic compared to previous years. Employees suggested that extending tent hours could help boost nighttime business and attract more visitors to their establishment after the rodeo events concluded.

Conversely, Villa Azteca experienced a busy weekend, thanks in part to community support, emphasizing a contrasting outcome among local businesses. The varying experiences highlight the divergent economic impacts of the rodeo on the Salinas business community.

Notable Events and Winners

This year’s rodeo featured several attractions, including a parade, cowboy poetry, and the Special Buckaroos Rodeo, which provided an opportunity for children with special needs to partake in the festivities. Livestock events also captured the audience’s attention, with legends Jake Barnes and Clay Cooper winning the PRCA Gold Card Team Roping competition, marking a significant achievement in their storied history of participation in the rodeo.

Established in 1911, the California Rodeo Salinas is recognized for its unique scoring system, particularly its 40-foot-long scoreline for ropers, and its deep-rooted connection to local traditions. The rodeo is deeply embedded in the community, receiving substantial support from agricultural companies and actively promoting local nonprofits. This year alone, nearly $800,000 was donated to various organizations, along with $30,000 in scholarships awarded to local students.

Future Plans and Enhancements

As part of its commitment to improving guest experience, free off-site parking and shuttle services were introduced this year to manage the growing attendance and ensure smoother entry and exit from the event site. Looking towards the future, the California Rodeo Salinas will celebrate its 115th anniversary from July 17-20 in 2025, promising to provide even more excitement for rodeo enthusiasts.

During this year’s celebrations, significant events such as the Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon and a Forever Royal Reunion also drew notable attention. Participants and attendees reflected fondly on the rodeo’s rich history and its fostering of community spirit.

Despite the challenges faced by some local businesses during this historic rodeo event, others have capitalized on the influx of visitors. The spectrum of experiences and outcomes reflects the diverse impact of the California Rodeo Salinas on the local economy, as it continues to be a hallmark celebration of tradition, competition, and community involvement in the heart of California.