50th Annual Cheney Rodeo

A staple of summer in the town of Cheney continues for the 50th year when gates for the first night of the annual Cheney Rodeo open this Friday. Each evening features a mix of classic rodeo events, including barrel racing, steer wrestling and bull and bronco riding. Cheney Events Association’s Heidi Monter says the public can also watch competitions on Friday starting at 1 pm for just $5, because there were too many competitors to fit in the two main events. A dance follows the rodeo on both Friday and Saturday night, featuring local country and classic rock quintet Raised in a Barn Band. Downtown Cheney also hosts the Cheney Rodeo parade at 11:30 am Saturday. For those looking to get a little closer to the action, anyone over 18 can sign up to saddle up and ride a bull. Monter says the six bulls available are the same as those the professionals ride. You only get one shot, so make it count. Applications and waivers are online.

Fri and Sat, July 7 and 8 at 7:20 pm, Sun, July 9 at 2 pm • $14-$20 adults; $7/kids 4-12, age 3 and under free • Cheney Bi-Mart Arena • 14310 S. State Route 904 • cheneyrodeo.com