Rodeo Brings Sisters Big Economic Boost
The 72nd annual Sisters Rodeo kicked off Thursday, and owners of shops, restaurants and hotels are hoping for a busy weekend. Last year, the rodeo drew more than 24,000 visitors to the area, and the Chamber of Commerce thinks it could be even more this year.
Locals and tourists are enjoying the town, and businesses owners are seeing a big boost in sales.
“We’re really glad when it’s here — and we’re really glad when it’s over,” said Bronco Billy’s owner John Tehan.
Tehan says he’s ready for the business, and he’s keeping his entire staff on throughout the weekend, to make sure everyone is taken care of.
“Kicking up their heels one time a year, and letting it buck,” Tehan said. “We try to promote that, so that they can have a good time. That’s what it’s about.”
The rodeo also kicks off the summer season, and many businesses are trying to catch up on their sales. The manager of the Sisters Inn and Suites said they are booked up for Saturday night, just like they hoped.
“I know that it’s a huge effect in Sisters,” said Manager Brad Abbe. “The wintertime is not really busy, so from now through the summer, this is when we really need the business — and things are really picking up.”
City officials say the rodeo is a big boost for the economy, and it’s the first big event of the year, followed by the Quilt show and Folk Festival.
“We start bringing in those visitors, school starts letting out and we have folks out of college and coming back to take family vacations,” said Erin Borla, executive director of the Sisters Chamber of Commerce.
“The weather is turning great, and we’re having all sorts of opportunity for people to do outdoor recreation,” Borla said.
For many people who grew up in the small Western-style town, they come back every year for the “Biggest Little Show in the World.”
“I love seeing all the people for one, and also I grew up in the sport, so it’s seeing a lot of familiar faces,” said Sisters native Cody Corbett. “Just being back home again, I guess.”
The rodeo fun continues Friday night with the Les Schwab Family Night. Children 12 and under get into the rodeo grounds for free.
