Bull riding and barrel racing return to Rochester Fairgrounds

The rodeo is back in town, bringing excitement and nonstop energy to the SouthCoast. It’s time to dust off your boots, grab your cowboy hat, and get ready, because the New England Rodeo is back in Rochester with a full-on cowboy competition. This biweekly showdown of bull riding and barrel racing is the only event of its kind in Massachusetts. Starting Saturday, May 16, the rodeo transforms the Rochester Fairgrounds into an arena filled with roaring crowds, cowboy hats, pickup trucks, and thousand-pound bulls ready for the spotlight.

The rodeo brings western culture to the SouthCoast

Fourteen years ago, owner Elias DaSilva, a former **PBR** bull rider from Brazil, brought the rodeo to Massachusetts, bringing a piece of home to the United States. For many Brazilian riders, who make up a large part of the competition, it has become the ultimate stage to showcase their talent and passion. Last year, the event found its home base at the Rochester Fairgrounds, where junior and professional bull riders and barrel racers from across the country come together to compete in the family-friendly event. With thousands of spectators at each event, the night is about much more than just bull riding and barrel racing. You can also enjoy cultural demonstrations, including horse vaulting, mounted shooting, and horse liberty work, a captivating display of trust and harmony between horse and rider. On top of the action, there are plenty of food trucks serving up great eats, local vendors to explore, and even a mechanical bull for anyone ready to test their own rodeo skills.

When is the 2026 rodeo season?

Every other Saturday from May to September, you will get a chance to immerse yourself in the culture and enjoy the competition at 65 Pine St., Rochester. This year’s schedule is May 16, May 30, June 13, June 27, July 11, July 25, Aug. 8, Aug. 22, Sept. 5, and Sept. 19, with finals happening on Oct. 3. Tickets are $25, and kids 5 and under are free, making this an affordable night packed with rodeo action for the whole family. The event is cash-only, with no online ticket sales or an ATM on site. Gates open at 5 p.m., with the youth rodeo starting at 6 p.m., the pro rodeo taking over at 7 p.m., and the excitement wraps up before 10 p.m. Parking and seating are first-come, first-served, with bleachers and picnic tables available. No on-street parking, coolers, open containers, tailgating, smoking, or overnight parking is allowed. Outside food is not permitted unless required for dietary restrictions. For more information about this season, visit . *This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: New England Rodeo returns to Rochester Fairgrounds. Here's what to know*