The Labor Day Weekend Ranch Rodeo is coming up this weekend, and the Bandera Pro Rodeo Association says it is not an event to miss.
The annual two-day event at Mansfield Park will feature vendors, food and ranch rodeo competitions.
The association’s passion for hosting the event comes from its desire to preserve the Western heritage of Bandera, particularly the cowboy and cowgirl traditions. Each night will feature five events that showcase real ranching skills.
Three of the competitions mirror practices still used on working ranches today. In the Calf Branding event, a team will catch a calf and “brand” it with chalk dust before releasing it.
Steer Tying, Sorting and Trailer Loading will also be held, highlighting both cowboys and their horses.
To keep the excitement going, there will also be head-to-head contests in the Pony Express, Hide Race and a crowd favorite, the Rescue Race.
In the Rescue Race, a blue tarp is placed in the arena to simulate water. Each competitor, on horseback, races side by side for the fastest time while completing two rescues and a horse change.
“The side-by-side aspect is really exciting. You should see how competitive it can get,” said Lisa with the Bandera Pro Rodeo Association.
Saturday’s rodeo will feature women’s ranch rodeo teams, while Sunday will spotlight men’s teams.
The family-friendly weekend also includes Mutton Bustin’, open to children under 50 pounds.
In addition to the rodeo, the association is working toward a scholarship program for local students and continues to support 4-H and FFA participants at the Bandera County Junior Livestock Show.
“We want to make sure we are always giving back to the community,” Lisa said.
Organizers also expressed gratitude to sponsors, including title sponsor The Texas Salt Co., and thanked the many volunteers who help make the event possible.
“There’s something for everyone to do this Labor Day Round Up Weekend in Bandera, starting Saturday with the Longhorn Cattle Drive and Parade, shopping at market days on the courthouse lawn, and family entertainment at the ranch rodeos each evening,” Lisa said.
For tickets, visit https://www. banderaPro Rodeo.org.
Admission is $15 for adults, $6 for children ages 6–12, and $8 for veterans.
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