‘The Greatest Little Rodeo in Oregon’ Kicks Off 4th of July Weekend in La Pine

LA PINE, Ore. — The gates are officially open and the action is underway in southern Deschutes County for one of Central Oregon’s longest-running Independence Day traditions.

The La Pine Rodeo kicked off night one of its three-day run, expected to draw thousands of holiday visitors. Proudly dubbed "The Greatest Little Rodeo in Oregon," organizers say the event is a massive economic and social anchor for the entire South County community.

"The most special thing about the La Pine Rodeo is that it's the only rodeo in Central Oregon held over the 4th of July weekend," said La Pine Rodeo Association Board Director Lacee Lady. "It brings all of the local, South Deschutes County businesses together. It gives them an opportunity to come and congregate, and it's just a really great time."

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That community spirit extends directly behind the scenes. The entire board of directors operates purely on a volunteer basis, spending the entire week on-site to run the event. Planning is a year-round process, with prep for the next year beginning the literal day after the current rodeo wraps up.

Local support also shines in the hospitality area, where members of the American Legion are spending the weekend cooking up fresh meals for the arriving contestants.

"Scott here, from American Legion is making hamburgers and hot dogs for our contestants," said a volunteer who goes by Cowgirl. "We're living a dream. Come on out to La Pine and see the rodeo!"

Beyond the arena action, the event features local vendors, live entertainment, a nightly afterparty in the beer garden, and a nightly fundraiser auction. Every dollar raised from those auctions goes directly back into local community programs.

"There is nothing more patriotic than coming to a rodeo," Lady said.

Event Details & Showtimes

The La Pine Rodeo runs nightly through Saturday, July 4th.

• Gates Open: 5:45 PM nightly
• Performances Begin: 7:00 PM
• Tickets: Available online via the official La Pine Rodeo Association website.