World’s Oldest Rodeo honoring women in rodeo for 2025 Prescott festival

PHOENIX — This year’s Prescott rodeo festival will celebrate the legacy of women who have contributed to the sport throughout its history.

The World’s Oldest Rodeo, hosted by Prescott Frontier Days, Inc. since 1888, is in its 138th edition. It will feature eight central rodeo performances and a downtown parade during Fourth of July week.

The parade’s theme is “Tipping Our Hats to the Women in Rodeo,” and 96-year-old Nancy Sheppard will be honored as grand marshal.

“Nancy was an original cowgirl who could ride, trick rope and train horses with the best,” Prescott Frontier Days wrote in a release. “We honor Nancy and many other legendary cowgirls that have paved the way for the ladies in rodeo today.”

The parade will hit downtown Prescott at 9 a.m. on July 5.

The Riata Ranch Cowboy Girls are among the special guests throughout the week, maintaining the theme of showcasing women.

“Tipping our hats to women in rodeo is more than a tribute. It’s a celebration of the grit, talent and determination that have shaped the sport for generations,” World’s Oldest Rodeo General Manager Jim Dewey Brown said in a release. “In 2025, we honor the women who ride, rope and inspire, leaving an undeniable mark on the legacy of the World’s Oldest Rodeo.”

Ticket packages are available now, with general admission for a single rodeo starting at about $20.

Schedule of events for Prescott rodeo festival

Main rodeo events will take place at 7:30 p.m. each night Monday-Saturday, starting June 30. There are also 1:30 p.m. events on Saturday and Sunday.

Themed events take place on Tuesday (Ridin’ for a Cure, when attendees are encouraged to wear pink) and Saturday (military tribute).

There will be dances held on the last three nights of the week, beginning with a family night on Thursday from 8 p.m. to midnight. Friday and Saturday dances are for those aged 21 and up and last for an extra hour.

Other related events in the festival include fine arts and crafts shows, a kiddie parade and Cowboy Church.

The full events schedule is available online.

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