Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Stampede & Nightly?

The Cody Stampede Rodeo is a premier, Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) sanctioned event held annually from June 30th to July 4th at Stampede Park in Cody, Wyoming. As one of the longest-running and most prestigious rodeos in the country, the Cody Stampede attracts top-tier rodeo athletes and enthusiasts from around the world, celebrating the rich history and traditions of the American West. The event is governed by the Cody Stampede Board of Directors, who oversee the management and organization of the rodeo, ensuring a world-class experience for both participants and spectators.

In addition to the Cody Stampede, the Cody Nite Rodeo runs every evening from June through August at Stampede Park. This nightly event provides continuous rodeo action throughout the summer, offering a unique opportunity for visitors and locals alike to enjoy professional rodeo events on a regular basis. Like the Cody Stampede, the Cody Nite Rodeo is also managed and overseen by the Cody Stampede Board of Directors, maintaining the same high standards of excellence and safety for which these events are known.

Together, these two rodeos make Cody, Wyoming, a year-round hub for rodeo enthusiasts, further solidifying its reputation as the Rodeo Capital of the World.

What time does Stampede Park open?

For the Cody Nite Rodeo, the gates and ticket windows open nightly at 7:00 PM, allowing attendees ample time to arrive, get settled, and enjoy the pre-rodeo atmosphere before the action begins. We encourage guests to arrive early to fully experience all that the event has to offer, including special activities and interactions before the rodeo performances.

During Cody Stampede Week (June 30th - July 4th), the schedule differs slightly. Gates for the Cody Stampede Rodeo will open two hours prior to the scheduled start time of each performance, providing additional time for attendees to explore the venue, enjoy concessions, and take part in pre-event activities. This extended window ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all guests attending the signature events during Stampede Week.

We recommend arriving early to ensure the best experience and to make the most of your time at Stampede Park.

Is there handicap seating available?

Yes, Stampede Park is proud to offer ADA-compliant seating to accommodate all guests, ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for everyone.

For guests attending general admission events, no special ticket is required to access ADA seating. Simply proceed to the designated ADA section, where seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For reserved seating events, including performances during the Cody Stampede and other special occasions, we recommend contacting our office directly at 307-587-5155. Our team will be happy to assist you with the reservation and processing of ADA tickets to ensure your comfort and convenience. We strive to provide an exceptional experience for all of our patrons, and we are committed to accommodating your needs to the best of our ability.

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or to make your reservations in advance. We look forward to welcoming you to Stampede Park!

Why can't I choose a date for the Cody Nite Rodeo?

Cody Nite Rodeo tickets provide flexibility and convenience for guests, as they are not date-specific. This means that once you have purchased a ticket for the Cody Nite Rodeo, you can use it to attend any performance during the season, based on your availability and preferences. Simply choose the night that works best for you and enjoy an exciting evening of rodeo action at Stampede Park.

It is important to note, however, that Cody Nite Rodeo tickets are not valid during the Cody Stampede Rodeo (held annually from June 30th to July 4th). The Cody Stampede Rodeo is a separate event with its own ticketing system, and tickets for the Cody Nite Rodeo cannot be used for entry to these performances.

For those planning to attend the Cody Stampede Rodeo, please be sure to purchase tickets specifically for that event. Should you have any questions or need assistance with ticketing, please feel free to contact our office for further information. We are committed to ensuring your experience at Stampede Park is enjoyable and seamless.

I have a 6 and under. Do they need a ticket?

At the Cody Nite Rodeo, children under the age of 12 do not require a ticket for admission. This policy allows families to bring their young ones to enjoy the thrilling rodeo action without additional cost. We encourage families to attend and share in the excitement of the rodeo, creating lasting memories together.

For the Cody Stampede Rodeo (held annually from June 30th to July 4th), children 2 years old and younger are granted free admission. This complimentary entry provides families with the opportunity to attend one of the largest and most prestigious rodeos in the country, without the added expense for toddlers.

For children over the age of 2, a standard ticket must be purchased to gain entry to the Cody Stampede Rodeo. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance, especially during high-demand events, to ensure seating availability for your entire group.

If you have any questions or need further clarification about ticketing policies for children, please don't hesitate to contact our office. Our team is always happy to assist you and ensure your visit to Stampede Park is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to experience the excitement of both the Cody Nite Rodeo and the Cody Stampede Rodeo.

Is there group discounts?

We are pleased to offer group rates for parties of 10 or more for the Cody Nite Rodeo. These special rates provide an excellent opportunity for organizations, schools, corporate groups, or families to enjoy a fun and exciting evening at a discounted price. Whether you're planning a team outing, a family reunion, or a group event, the Cody Nite Rodeo is a fantastic way to experience the thrill of professional rodeo action together.

Please note that group tickets can only be processed through the following methods:

  1. In-person at our ticket window, located at Stampede Park.
  2. At our downtown business office, where our staff will assist you with ticket selection and processing.
  3. By phone, by calling our office at 307-587-5155. Our team will be happy to assist you with ticketing and answer any questions you may have.

Group tickets cannot be purchased online, so we encourage you to contact us directly through one of the available methods listed above to ensure that you receive the best possible rates for your group.

We recommend securing your group tickets as early as possible to guarantee availability, especially during the peak summer season. If you have any specific requests or need assistance with seating arrangements, please let us know when booking. Our team is dedicated to making your experience at Stampede Park enjoyable and seamless.

We look forward to hosting your group at the Cody Nite Rodeo for an unforgettable event!

Can I bring my pet in?

To ensure the safety and comfort of all guests, pets are not permitted within the premises of Stampede Park, with the sole exception of registered service animals. This policy is in place to maintain a welcoming and secure environment for everyone attending events at the park.

If you are traveling with a service animal, please be sure to keep it under control and on a leash at all times while inside the park. We recognize and accommodate the important role service animals play in assisting individuals with disabilities, and we are committed to ensuring a positive experience for both you and your service animal.

For the safety of your pet, please do not leave animals unattended in vehicles while visiting Stampede Park. Temperatures inside vehicles can quickly become dangerous, even on mild days, putting animals at risk. We strongly recommend making arrangements for your pet's care and safety before your visit to the park.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation with our pet policy, as it helps us maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all patrons. Should you have any questions regarding accommodations for service animals or other concerns, please feel free to contact our team. We look forward to welcoming you to Stampede Park for an exceptional experience.

Does the rodeo sell out?

At Stampede Park, we strive to provide a smooth and enjoyable experience for all of our guests. It’s important to note the ticketing policies for our two premier events: Cody Nite Rodeo and the Cody Stampede/Xtreme Bulls.

  • Cody Nite Rodeo: The Cody Nite Rodeo runs every evening from June through August and does not sell out. There is always available seating for guests wishing to attend. However, we still encourage attendees to arrive early to enjoy the full experience and to secure the best possible seats for their group. While tickets are not required to be purchased in advance, early purchases can still help streamline your visit.
  • Cody Stampede & Xtreme Bulls: The Cody Stampede Rodeo (held annually from June 30th to July 4th) and the Cody/Yellowstone Xtreme Bulls event (held on June 30th) are highly anticipated, nationally recognized events. Due to their popularity, these events do sell out, and seating is limited. We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment. These events draw large crowds, and once tickets are sold out, we are unable to accommodate additional guests.

For your convenience, tickets for both events can be purchased online, through our ticket office, or via phone. We encourage you to purchase tickets well in advance, especially for the Cody Stampede and Xtreme Bulls, to secure your seats and make your experience as seamless as possible.

By purchasing your tickets early, you ensure that you don’t miss out on these world-class rodeo events, whether it’s the nightly excitement of the Cody Nite Rodeo or the exhilarating action of the Cody Stampede and Xtreme Bulls. If you have any questions about ticket availability or need assistance with purchasing, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We look forward to welcoming you to Stampede Park for an unforgettable rodeo experience!

Why can't I choose my specific seat?

At Stampede Park, we offer a variety of seating options to ensure that all guests enjoy a comfortable and exciting experience. Below is a breakdown of the seating arrangements for our premier events: the Cody Nite Rodeo, Cody Stampede, and Xtreme Bulls.

  • Cody Nite Rodeo: The Cody Nite Rodeo offers general admission seating, allowing guests to select their preferred location in either the Grandstand or the Buzzard Roost. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage early arrival for optimal seating selection.
  • Cody Stampede (July 1-4): The Cody Stampede Rodeo, held from July 1st to July 4th, features reserved seating in the Grandstand. Tickets for these events provide specific seat assignments, ensuring a designated spot for every guest. To secure your preferred seating, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance, as these performances often sell out quickly.
  • Xtreme Bulls (June 30th): The Xtreme Bulls event, held on June 30th, offers reserved seating in the Grandstand. Tickets are assigned to specific seats, providing a guaranteed spot to enjoy the action-packed bull riding. As this event is a fan favorite, early ticket purchase is highly recommended.

We strive to provide a variety of seating options to accommodate all preferences, from general admission to reserved seating, ensuring that every guest can enjoy the thrilling rodeo action at Stampede Park. Should you have any questions about seating arrangements or need assistance with ticketing, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable rodeo experience!

Why can't I buy Buzzard Roost over the Stampede?

The Buzzard Roost offers an exclusive box seating experience during Stampede Week, from June 30th to July 4th. These premium boxes are reserved for our dedicated box holders, who enjoy the benefits of having their own group of seats each year. Box holders are granted priority seating annually, with their reserved boxes maintained until they choose to discontinue their purchase.

Please note that these box seats are sold on an annual basis, and availability is limited to a select number of groups. Due to the high demand, there is an established waiting list for individuals or groups interested in acquiring Buzzard Roost box seating. Interested parties can sign up for the waiting list at our downtown office.

While we encourage those interested to add their names to the waiting list, please be aware that the list is substantial, and placement on the list does not guarantee the availability of box seating in any specific year. Due to the popularity and exclusivity of these boxes, it may take time before seats become available.

For more information or to inquire about joining the waiting list, please visit our downtown office or contact our team for further assistance. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing you with an exceptional seating experience at Stampede Park.

What is a Rodeo?

Rodeo 101-
Professional rodeo action consists of two types of competitions - roughstock events and timed events - and an all-around cowboy crown.

In the roughstock events bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding a contestant's score is equally dependent upon his performance and the animal's performance. To earn a qualified score, the cowboy, while using only one hand, must stay aboard a bucking horse or bull for eight seconds. If the rider touches the animal, himself or any of his equipment with his free hand, he is disqualified.

In saddle bronc and bareback riding, a cowboy must "mark out" his horse; that is, he must exit the chute with his spurs set above the horse's shoulders and hold them there until the horse's front feet hit the ground after the initial jump out of the chute. Failing to do so results in disqualification.

During the regular season, two judges each score a cowboy's qualified ride by awarding 0 to 25 points for the rider's performance and 0 to 25 points for the animal's effort. The judges' scores are then combined to determine the contestant's score. A perfect score is 100 points.

In timed events steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping, barrel racing and steer roping; cowboys and cowgirls at "the other end of the arena" compete against the clock, as well as against each other. A contestant's goal is to post the fastest time in his or her event. In steer wrestling and the roping events, calves and steers are allowed a head start. The competitor, on horseback, starts in a three-sided fenced area called a box. The fourth side opens into the arena.

A rope barrier is stretched across that opening and is tied to the calf or steer with a breakaway loop. Once the calf or steer reaches the head-start point - predetermined by the size of the arena - the barrier is automatically released. If a cowboy breaks that barrier, a 10-second penalty is added.
-ProRodeo.com

Does rodeo livestock get hurt?

Rodeo livestock, such as bulls, broncs, and other animals used in events, are well cared for and undergo strict regulations to ensure their safety and well-being. Rodeos, particularly those governed by organizations like the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), prioritize the humane treatment of animals, and a team of veterinarians is on-site during events to monitor their health.

While rodeo events do present certain risks to animals, similar to any high-intensity sport, the vast majority of rodeo animals are specifically bred and trained for these events. The animals’ primary purpose is to showcase their natural athleticism, and they are typically in excellent health and condition. Additionally, rodeos are committed to using practices that minimize the potential for injury.

For example, during bucking events, such as bronc and bull riding, animals are carefully prepared and conditioned for their roles. The equipment used, like the flank strap, is designed to encourage natural movements without causing harm or distress. Furthermore, rodeos follow strict guidelines regarding rest periods, recovery, and the overall treatment of the livestock to ensure their safety.

In the unlikely event that an animal does sustain an injury, it is immediately attended to by qualified veterinary professionals. Any animal that shows signs of distress or injury is removed from the competition, and its care takes precedence.

The well-being of rodeo livestock is a top priority, and the rodeo industry continuously works to ensure that animals are treated with the highest standards of care and respect.

For further information please visit https://prorodeo.com/prorodeo/livestock/livestock-...
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