74th Annual Rodeo Rides Into Taylor
The bustling city of Taylor is buzzing with excitement as the 74th annual Taylor Rodeo gallops into town. The beloved event will be held at the Williamson County Expo Center, located at 5350 Bill Pickett Trail, from July 18-20. Come revel in the thrill of traditional rodeo competitions, enjoy toe-tapping live music and indulge in a variety of entertainment options, all under one roof.
A Highly Anticipated Hometown Rodeo
Recognised as one of the top hometown rodeos in the multi-state region by the Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association, the Taylor Rodeo promises a rich blend of heart-pounding action, live entertainment, and community spirit. Tim Sims, President of the Taylor Rodeo Association, affirms their commitment to present a memorable spectacle and proclaims, “It is one of the biggest and best small-town rodeos anywhere. It just gets better every year.”
Events and Entertainment Line-up
Rodeo enthusiasts can look forward to adrenaline-pumping live action beginning every evening at 7.30, with gates opening at 5.30. Pre-competition music provided by local artists will set the stage for the high-intensity events to follow. The highlights include Kenny Orts & No Chance playing Texas dancehall music on Friday, and performances by the perennial favorites The Debonaires following Saturday’s rodeo.
Adding to the excitement is an expanded trade show featuring clothing, western décor, boots, hats, and a myriad of other exciting items. Food trucks and a concession stand cater to a wide palette range, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Rodeo Competitions and Activities
What would a rodeo be without some traditional, rip-roaring competition? The event features various contests such as the mutton busting challenge for the little ones and a calf scramble for the older kids. Adults can take on the sometimes-hilarious challenge of saddling a wild steer.
Locals can also attempt to rope and ride against some of the top cowboys and cowgirls in the rodeo circuit, enhancing the community spirit and involvement that defines the Taylor Rodeo.
Honoring Community Heroes
The Taylor Rodeo is also an occasion to celebrate local heroes. Thursday night offers free entry to first-responders, military personnel, nurses, police, and firemen with a badge or ID. On Friday, school teachers and administrators get in free with an ID. Saturday brings the crowning of a new rodeo queen, adding a royal touch to the festivities.
Scholarships and Community Support
Keeping with traditions, the Taylor Rodeo remains committed to supporting local education. This year’s event will present $50,000 in scholarships to ten students from the Milam, Lee, and Williamson counties on Friday. “We do give academic scholarships as well but we like to keep it in the trade-based areas,” said Sims, reflecting the rodeo’s commitment to nurturing local talent and their practical career development.
Sims adds that, including scholarships, the association contributes about $90,000-$100,000 every year to local fundraising efforts, attesting to the immense community backing and contributions the event inspires. He concludes, “This rodeo is a total community- effort. We have so much help; it would be impossible without the support from our sponsors, the Future Farmer of America (FFA), 4H kids, and our wonderful Taylor community.”
