I was given VIP tickets for the rodeo, which gave us access the food and drinks in a gated area before the rodeo. The food was catered by Nix Taco, which was the best choice. We also got to sit in the VIP area, which was a little overcrowded but still so much fun! read more

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I bought two tickets to the Folsom Rodeo for about $360, very expensive for this venue. The seating, supposedly premium reserved turned out to be horrid, placed directly behind a cyclone fence and a horde of other customers moving back and forth in front of us on a dirt path, the dust rising into our faces. This is very dishonest pricing. Four rows back would have been more reasonable. But worse was the "welcome" we received on arrival. My partner had a camera in a backpack and we were told we would have to leave because cameras were not allowed. But we are in our late 70s and there was no way we were going to hike several miles back to my car to store her expensive camera. Besides, on the date when I bought our tickets, this message was printed directly on the ticket form (slightly abbreviated, as follows): Please no strollers, car seats, ice chests, dogs, chairs. No professional camera equip. Well, my partner is an amateur photographer so we were in the clear... or so we thought. I showed this message to several security agents but they insisted that their set of rules invalidated the rules we had been given even though they were clearly stated on the tickets. Later I found the conflicting set of restrictions the security agents insisted on under "Frequently Asked Questions". This very odd location was something the security folks kept under their hats. Now is that where you would look if you wanted to see the rules which could get you removed with a forced march home? FAQ? The first security man we spoke to was around 25, and after finding out we had a camera, he tried bodily to bar my way in. At 79, I'm not so quick on my feet and I ran into him as he stepped in front of me. He complained that I shoved him. I told him I was going around him and he decided to "tail" us, following all the way to our seating section, maybe 200 yards. He confronted me again and I told him that the incompetence of the rodeo organizers in putting out two conflicting sets of regulations was no fault of ours but whenever I mentioned regs, out came his FAQ entry. This young man was seriously lacking a sense of fair play. Eventually the cops came and most of the officers were competent and kind. When our "tail" (amazingly!) asked the police if they were going to arrest us (no kidding?), the lead officer told him we were not a problem for the police. Eventually, after at least 20 minutes of arguing, the security gang (who were up to four or five Gen Z's by now) let us take our seats as long as we kept the camera in the backpack. No problem. We were just there to enjoy the rodeo. So, one suggestion to FPR: don't hire adolescents to be security agents. They haven't got the maturity or the training. But, in addition, as several other reviewers have written, this rodeo is run in a casual and disorganized fashion. The actual rodeo events were okay: the riders were competent, the horses strong and beautiful. The problem is that you had to wait so long for the actual events. The start time was supposed to be 7:15 but there was no hint of a rodeo until 8 pm or so. Then there was a long session of putting young kids on sheep and letting the animals run. Mostly the kids stayed on for less than one second per ride and fell right at the sheeps' feet. I am not aware that there were injuries suffered but it must happen sometimes. And the thought that a child could suffer serious harm made me cringe. Another huge negative was this announcer who roamed around the rodeo field filling the empty time segments with his supposedly hilarious observations on life. Allegedly a comic, he was a complete drag. If you want to see rodeo, I recommend La Estampida, a dance bar/rodeo in Durango, Mexico. That is something worth seeing! The dancing is good too. Again, no criticism against the cowboys and their horses at Folsom Rodeo. As far as I could tell the riders were professional, skillful, and mindful of kindness to the animals. read more

Expected more bull and bronc riding, but all in all was great! Had fun. Going next year for sure. read more

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Hmmm...where do I start... 1) the venue ran out of bottled water half way through the show knowing they sold out every seat and the weather was going to be smoldering hot. 2) purchased the most uncomfortable bleacher seats in the corral club and it's so not worth it. Your knees will bump up against the row in front of you. There's no space in between the bleachers so who ever is in your row needs to stand up in order for you to access the aisle. 3) don't bring your portable misting fan as security will not allow it inside the venue despite how hot it is. 4)there is only one way in and one way out of the venue and I'm still in disbelief how this isn't a fire hazard. In addition, it was a mission to get to the corral club section. There is one walkway around the whole venue that barely fits 2 people side by side. Again not sure how this isn't a hazard. 5) couldn't hear the announcer or the music as the speakers in the corral club kept cutting in and out. Will I go again??? Hell No!!! read more

Cons: Spent near $100 total on tickets and food. Will not go back, thought it was culturally insensitive, with too many advertisements, and not entertaining. Pros: If your a young adult who wants to drink this would probably be an ok event for you. read more

This was such a waste of money! We came to see a rodeo not hear advertising for the first hour! What a waste of time! I would never go again! Security rude! read more

It was hard to enjoy the Folsom Pro Rodeo this year...between the scorching heat and the MC making rude comments about Americans being fat, and picking on certain sports fans, it wasn't funny and it wasn't cute dude! The fireworks show could have been patriotic but they chose to play EDM music!! Screeching blasting music totally took away from what could have been an outstanding and patriotic fireworks show. This is advertised as family friendly rodeo, but you really missed the mark for us this year FPR. read more

First time at the rodeo loved it. First was afraid 7-10 pm would be a long time to spend at the rodeo, but it went by so fast. The program is packed and full of fun. The host was amazing. Here are a few tips. We sat at the corral seating. The show started at 7:30pm. The sunset on our back, unlike the other seats across (cheapest seats) sun will be in your eyes the entire time. Depends where your seats are, you have two entrances, check online for the map. On one of the entrances, you can take free Rodeo picture (printed and emailed picture). A lot of food to choose from and drinks. If you are sitting in the corral seats, you have servers, they bring you drinks and food (awesome). Bathrooms, food and drinks are right behind the seating. Seats - corral - metal like seatings, were not hot but could be - reserved seating - wooden - general (cheapest) - cement So bring whatever seating you prefer. Fireworks This might vary each year. They were in front and behind the corral seats. The problem was that they were to close and the wind blew all the residue into people's eyes. I would suggest putting on your sunglasses. Water You can bring a closed store bought bottled water. Read more in their site fit info. Entrance Opens at 6, I would recommend coming at 6 or latest 7. The queues are very long at the entrance. Parking Park around the neighborhood. When leaving the rodeo expect traffic jam and stall. Park near the gas station. read more

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Had an amazing time with my three kids... Parking wasn't bad before or after. Bought an adorable cowboy hat for $30. Not much to do before or after (unless you are drinking and dancing) so my advice to families is don't come too early, you'll just stand in the sun longer. You can bring in water and snacks, just no containers that have already been opened (including water bottles) the kids loved it, non stop something going on and the Cowboys and girls had them on their feel clapping and excited throughout the evening. Best 4th ever, take the kids! read more

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What a great night out with the family and youngsters. So much fun. I would live to return for next years event.

I was so excited to take my family to the rodeo Saturday night. My three girls (9, 8, 4) loved the rodeo we attended last summer, so we decided to take them to Folsom this year since it's just down the road from our house. Between Folsom's family friendly reputation and the various kid friendly events being advertised it never crossed my mind that it would be inappropriate for younger ages. Unfortunately, the Rodeo Clown didn't seem to have any idea what constitutes family friendly. From his five minute monologue comparing police officers to pigs (on the night chosen to honor those who serve our country) to his numerous sexual innuendos, and occasional references to marijuana, I was embarrassed to have brought my kids and mother-in-law. Maybe this is what Folsom Pro Rodeo is all about, and if so, that's great and I'm sure they certainly have their audience, but please don't market it as family friendly and include kid friendly events like the coin dig and mutton bustin. It could be a really fun family event. We loved the sky diving American Flag, the Painted Ladies, and traditional rodeo events, but until we hear a significant change of mood towards a more traditional love of God and Country, we will not be back read more

Yee Haw! I hurled under the bleachers! Unfortunately, it was sun induced and I was totally dehydrated so I missed the ladies barrel racing competition (my personal rodeo favorite!) I'm not an ultra patriotic person so the 4th of July isn't up there as a favorite, but I must say that Folsom is the perfect destination for Bay Area residents/visitors who want some good old fashioned patriotic fun on the 4th of July. None of that cheesy gimicky corporate radio sponsored fireworks show going on here. It's a bit pricy at $25 each, but they offer packages (called Buckaroo) which are geared towards families. I'm at a point in my life where I'm creating traditions, and I think this is one to add to the list. read more

This was my first rodeo ever and I had a blast! It was such an amazing night, full of laughs, spectacular rodeo riding, and full of friendliness everywhere. The show was jaw-dropping and the skill level of the riders barely allowed me to blink! The music was perfect. It was super family friendly. Great food and drinks. Funny MC's. Customer service on every end was top-notch. From the Chamber of Commerce representatives, the volunteers, the Folsom Police Department, and just everyone in attendance were polite, helpful, and happy to be there. The rodeo clown was hilarious! Moto-Cross riders - WOW!!!! To top it off - the perfect fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day. It was a party for all ages! My kids had the best time and also cannot wait until next year. They want to go to the rodeo every night next year! I would give it 100 stars if there was that option. It was a true celebration of impeccable skills, but more so of our country, our freedom, and bringing us all together in harmony. I highly recommend the Folsom Pro Rodeo. This year they pulled it off within two weeks because they were given the approval late. I thought it was perfect and can only imagine what they would pull together if given more time. I have nothing negative to say, only positives. The whole night was full of smiles and laughter. Such a perfect Saturday night! Looking forward to next year! This may have been my first rodeo, but it is the start of a beautiful friendship!!!! Awesome! Awesome! Awesome! read more

Folsom Pro Rodeo - Rodeo Near Me - Folsom, California

It's wild west action with cowboys, bucking broncs and bulls with attitude every year at Dan Russell Arena @ Folsom City Park every Thu, Fri & Sat nearest July 4th. Think you're a cosmopolitan city slicker? Think you've outgrown immature fireworks? Do you like surprises? This rodeo will prove you wrong when you attend your first! It's become an integral part of my July 4 festivities. Not only is it a fun, family-friendly event followed by an explosive aerial fireworks show. You'll hear MORE THAN country music, and you'd be surprised how long EIGHT SECONDS can last. The show begins at 7 PM with timed roping events. Let's not forget the guy who parachutes into the arena with a very, very large U.S. flag. Then we stand to hear the national anthem... When the sun sets, bring on MUTTON BUSTING! Don't worry; IT'S TOTALLY SAFE! The bull riding action usu starts at 8 PM. Although tickets cost $20-25, you get more than 3 hours of family friendly entertainment and a good reason to eat corndogs, funnel cakes, cotton candy & snocones and drink pop / soda or beer! Bring the camera b/c it's cool to see grandpas, dads, & kids wear cowboy hats =D Besides, where else will your kids learn the lyrics to patriotic songs like "I'm Proud to be an American"? * If your kids can't sit still, there's a mini-carnival with rides and games. Parking is free on-street or at the nearby school parking lot. Traffic isn't too bad at all; most drivers are not rude. read more

What a blast!! I have lived in Sacramento for almost all my life, and I had never been to the Folsom Pro Rodeo until this year. My brother got my husband and I free tickets so we thought we would finally check it out. Tickets are normally $19.50 for general admission. Parking is $8.00/ We paid it rather than looking for neighborhood streets to park on for free. Paid parking was available right in the adjacent City Hall lot. As we walked in and found our bleacher seats, it was still really hot for about the first hour, but then as the sun went down, the weather was perfect. We had a terrific view of all the action. I took tons of pics of the bucking horses and the bull riders, the little people including a midget named "Little E" who came out in a white jumpsuit and sang Elvis classics. One little clown even had a jumping shetland pony. Like Chelsea Handler, I LOVED this part of the evening. The skydiving guy who brought down the American Flag was cool, as were the kids riding sheep and the awesome motorcross event. Fireworks were a bit ho-hum, not like Cal Expo, but overall, you get your money's worth at the rodeo. The refreshments including beer, margaritas, ice cream, lemonade, hot dogs, corn dogs, and barbecue sandwiches. A bit pricey, but that is what we usuallly expect at the fair, rodeo, etc. I do wish that Ludy's Barbecue out of Woodland would have had food on hand, as they were sponsors, but I did not see their delicious ribs or sandwiches anywhere in sight. Also, I would love to buy souvenir shirts, beer mugs, etc., but I did not see these either. Perhaps they could market the event better in the future. I am sentimental and love to buy souvenirs from the cool places I have been. My family and I all agree this will be a new tradition. We will go to the Folsom Rodeo next year. read more

A rootin' tootin' damn good time! The Folsom Rodeo is awesome. It's everything America stands for: adventure, food, beer, & fun! The party starts when the parachuter falls out of the sky carrying a huge American flag. Then we all stand up & sing the national anthem & celebrate living in the best country in the world. There's cowgirl horse races, bull riding, & even mutton busting (look it up if you don't know what it is, it's hilarious!). And they end the night with a long firework show with patriotic music blasting in the background! It's a pretty good time for the whole family & just $19 a pop. Tip: buy your tickets online because sometimes there's good deals. We got a Buckaroo pass which was $65 for 4 tix, 4 hot dogs, & 4 drinks! Also, there's no shade, so if it's hot, bring your biggest cowboy hat & some water. Parking can get a little crazy, but there's plenty of residential parking that's close by. read more

Yeeeeee hawwwww! i come here every 4th of July to drink hard cider and sing god bless america at the top of my lungs while old skool carnival rides like the gravitron squeal wildly in the background operated by guys named Ned. I completely understand that there may be some animal rights issues at hand, but the looks of it the people take their profession and animals seriously. the fireworks are really really really great - upclose and ahhhh worthy. and where else are you going to find "mutton racing"? 4 year olds riding sheep....sweeeeeet. read more

Folsom Pro Rodeo - Rodeo Near Me - Folsom, California

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This isn't much of a rodeo and more of a show with a little rodeo dabbled in. It's what monster trucks are to motorsports. I bought tickets because I wanted to see some competition rodeo. When it did arrive they seemed to want to cook through it so they could light something on fire or get on with something goofy. The seats are cramped. While you're worried about not jamming your knees into the person in front of you, the drunk guy behind you doesn't care if he does. It's not much of a family event. It's loaded with a bunch of drunk poser cowboys and under aged girls dressed like prostitutes. We left early. Pretty sad when you spend the money on an event and the better option is home. read more

Seats are very uncomfortable even with a cushion. Your knees are in someone's back and a little kid kicking your back. Really hot until the sun sets. Rodeo didn't really start until almost 8 and then there just weren't that many competitors. Lots of sponsor ads and announcers trying to keep us entertained with lame jokes. Not worth the time and money. read more

I'm from Folsom and the rodeo has been a 4th of July destination as far back as I can remember. Shameless plug: My Grandpa--who was mayor at the time and another guy? started the rodeo 53 years ago. I know everyone says things were better when they were young--but, in this case, I'm pretty sure it actually WAS! The fireworks were no doubt 100 times better--actually launched outside of the arena--flying up way higher in the air and much more spectacular AND visible all the way at our house across the Rainbow Bridge in North Folsom. (I suspect, it's a money thing--usually is--that the way they do the fireworks--super low and in the arena--is 1) a lot cheaper for them and 2) Only making them visible by ticket-holders is not an accident, I'm sure. And literally--they can only be seen in the arena--last year, we couldn't even see them in the Parking lot!! So, the fireworks suck now--and to add insult to injury--we were literally injured with the smoke coming downwind and getting in our eyes--thanks for that! Not to mention--it seemed over half of them were duds! Also, since I'm on a rant--what's wrong with their sound system? All I could hear was the announcer say was, "Anyone want some ground beef?" --when a stubborn bull refused to be corralled--I'm sure that didn't alienate all the animal lovers out there at all(!) Oh, and sitting behind a bunch of loud, right wing-nuts that were drunk was like being in a ring in Dante's inferno--and they had the nerve to give us the stink eye b/c our kid made some noise--they can suck it! Also, well, when I was younger the political climate was diff. and we were not in a war--but, I don't remember it being as over the top patriotic as it is now. I mean, complete with a hummvee making a lap around the arena and the guy dropping into the areana with the flag? If they want to be patriotic, have someone sing the national anthem that will nail it--and not some shakey voice 10 year old that screwed up the lyrics (sorry if that's mean). Also, improve the fireworks--bring them back to their old splendor--now, that's patriotic! Get it together, people! read more

I've been to many a rodeo in my short 24 years. This one has always been consistently OK. The reason I continue to come back is the fireworks and the parachuter. I am sorry but there is just so much fluff that surrounds the rodeo. We only saw 3 or 4 real events. The rest were filler silly things that I was bummed I paid $20 for. Also, the parking is an absolute nightmare! They definitely need more shade here too. read more

We had family in town and thought the Folsom Rodeo would be a fun family outing. This was a first for all of us -- we had 4 kids (all 12 yrs & under) with us. Our expectations were for fun , fourth of July weekend entertainment, rather than a real hard-core rodeo event. Other reviews discuss the seating options accurately. From the sun and heat aspect, the corral seats were great for the first hour. They are still just numbered metal bench seats and a portable bleacher seat might be nice to bring along for your back, and to stake your space on the bench seat. We had kids and the people next to us squished them by encroaching on their space. They were nice to slide back down but a bleacher seat might help that a bit. The waitress service in this section is spotty. Likely faster to get it yourself, but still an option for someone to get something for you. As for the entertainment aspect -- The announcer was pretty funny. The parachuter landing in the stadium was cool, and something we've never seen in such a small space before! The bull jumpers were very entertaining and unique! We were entertained by the mutton busting. All our kids with us were little boys and they loved the unexpected motorcycle jumpers! The fireworks were pretty, however they were RIGHT on top of us and remnants fell on us. One downside is that water was only sold in the same line as beer, which was a long line. It would be nice if they had an alcoholic line/tent and non-alcoholic line/tent, so you could more easily grab a lemonade/water for kids, or sold water/lemonade at the food booths. Also, the port-a-potties could've used a little attention mid-show as well. There was no garbage can for the paper towels at the sink which became a little unruly...even if it's a rodeo. Overall, it was a very fun, entertaining, 4th of July weekend festive family outing! read more

SOO DISAPPOINTING..... Having the option of going to see whatever firework dispay we wanted this year we chose Folsom because of the great things we heard. The park was packed with families, the show was delayed by 1 1/2 hrs kids were sceaming, the crowd was restless, many started leaving before the show started. Then it starts and Im thinking these must be warm up. No it waa the actual show. IT WAS THE WORST SHOW PUT ON BY A CITY THAT I EVER SAW! Folsom officials should be ashamed. What were they thinkin? Who ever is in vc harge of that hopefully steps down after a fubar like that! If it was a finacial problems ( which I doubt) they should have put the word out asking for sponsers. Another option, buy less but better. Hopefully they get it worked out for next year. read more

One of my favorite things of the summer is the Rodeo in Folsom! It's always really really stinking hot until the sun goes down and it's always really nice to purchase your tickets in advance! They have a few carnival rides and a TON of excellent food to grab before/during/afterwards. They have a VIP area that hooks you up with some excellent drinks and food if you can manage to find someone who is a VIP to invite you, they also have a really fun bar area for adults if you want a break from the show. This is a really family friendly event, of course, because it's in Folsom. It's so entertaining and the fireworks shows do not disappoint. You really should go to this Rodeo it's worth every penny! Shop online for discounts or if you go to Handley's Western Wear in Folsom by the DMV they usually can hook you up with a good little deal. read more

2015 YELP 100 CHALLENGE - 097/100 Not at ALL my decision to come here for 4th of July, but i'm glad we did. This was a fun, easy experience for the family. We really enjoyed ourselves at the Pro Rodeo, lots of entertainment, events went by quickly, and fire works show was really nice. This wasn't your average 5 min. show, they really went all out. Motocross was a ton of fun to watch, music playing was great, MC was very entertaining. Only suggestion would be to get more venders there. There was a BBQ, jamba juice, and ice tea/lemonade vendors, that's about it. Overall, this was a really fun event to go to. read more

Went on July 3rd 2018. If you haven't been to the rodeo before I definitely suggest going at least once. For me it will probably be a once every 3 years type of thing, but to get your face or your kids faces off their phones to see real animals, real women, and real men, some getting really hurt, and loving it all the while, is a unique American spectacle. Worth it to pay the extra bucks for a reserved seat. Most are baking in the sun, so I probably wouldn't go if it was a 95 or over day, but last night was perfect in the 80's and cooled off nicely. Of course the horse and bull riding are the highlight. Could have done without the motocross. Fireworks were great. Well organized, plenty of security, decent food, and at least one craft beer at the stand. Go see it for yourself at least once. read more

This is literally the funniest event I go to every year. Awesome energy everyone is having so much fun. I love the bull riding and the barrel racing. Every event is awesome honestly, they have dirt bike tricks a guy does a backflip thirty feet in the air. Fireworks end the night with a bang. I recommend every go atleast once you will love it. You can bring a spray mister since its hot for about an hour when u get there:) read more

I have been going to Folsom Rodeo for 12 years. I won't be going back. They tore down the announcers booth taking down the score board. The sound system had so much feedback and echoing you couldn't understand the announcers so, we didn't know the scores of almost any of the riders. The white trash ratio was especially high. The new canned beers allowed for a larger number of drunks. The volunteers and security were useless in monitoring the these scum. The fire works display was sad and off sync with the music. The music ended and the announcements started while the fireworks were still going off. They also had 3 people sing the national anthem. These people could not harmonize. They sounded horrible. read more

Bought general admission tickets in advance for July 4. Left early but traffic into event was jammed. Got there at 6:45, starts at 7:00 and there were no seats. Tried standing but didn't want to stand for two hours. Very disappointed. Spoke with ticket booth but they wouldn't or couldn't help. We left. Advise is get reserved tickets or don't go. I was disappointed for our son. read more

Wow! Unbelievably poor competition. I have seen much better performance at a high school rodeo. And this is a professional rodeo? Out of 7 calf ropers only 2 got times. It was about the same for team roping. I believe there was only one bareback bronc rider. They constantly stopped the rodeo for a midget clown that was the farthest thing from funny. It was just all wrong. They had a 15 minute ordeal of a bunch of women riding around the arena with flags. Not sure what this had to do with a rodeo. This made the event look even more like amateur hour. The best part of the whole show was the mutton riding and the motor cross jumping at the end. However one of the motor cross riders almost got hit by the guy driving the fireworks truck. The guy should have never been in the arena while the bikes were jumping. They need a safety officer. I have always heard good things about the Folsom Rodeo but my first time will be my last. read more

Went to the Rodeo on July 3, 2018 as I had not been here for way too long. It was absolutely worth it and I really enjoyed it. Loved the Bull riding, bronco riding, and the motocross and the fireworks that followed. The only thing I can say is that I miss seeing more of the girls riding and the trick riding from the cowgirls. In fact the girls performance seemed very disorganized. Was not choreographed very well at all. And then there was also a lot of lag time between events it seemed like it got kind of boring a few times. They need to keep it rolling and have more events going on. Also missed the calf roping they used to have where the cowboys get off and tie the hind feet together and it is a timed event. But overall it was great! Really an all American kind of thing to do. I loved the motocross and the Fireworks. Was really the highlight. Enjoyed the night though and it was the first time my son had been there, so that was really cool. He was really impressed. Loved it!! read more

After thinking about what to do on the 4th of July, sitting on a boat, staying home, swimming in the pool, we chose to go to the Folsom Rodeo, because in the past the fireworks were fantastic. This year somebody COMPLETELY messed up and dropped the ball. The 6000 + people that were there were so disappointed due to the lack of responsible planning. The heat, which was to be expected, for a city like Folsom, to have 4 misters over in one area of the facility is a joke. Maybe they could have taken 50 cents out of every ticket and put in a whole misting system around the arena that would have at least made it more comfortable. The wait was way too long for the fireworks and then what were were excited to see the fireworks were a joke. If this represents Folsom, then Miklos needs to reconsider what he is doing. How much money did it cost the city to put on. All the public service he had there. Next year charge us .50 cents more and put it towards the fireworks we use to have. I know times are tough for every body but come on. read more