The Greatest Little Rodeo in Oregon’ kicks off holiday weekend in La Pine
LA PINE, Ore. — Final preparations are underway at the La Pine Rodeo Grounds as crews set up for one of Central Oregon’s longest-running Fourth of July traditions, kicking off Thursday night.
Proudly dubbed "The Greatest Little Rodeo in Oregon," the three-day, NPRA-sanctioned event brings thousands of visitors to Southern Deschutes County annually, serving as one of the single largest economic holiday drivers for local businesses.
Beyond the immediate boost to area retail, restaurants, and lodging, the event acts as a direct investment back into the local community. Because the La Pine Rodeo Association operates as a non-profit organization, ticket proceeds from the weekend are funneled directly back into local youth programs, 4-H chapters, civic groups, and regional schools.
For those representing the community inside the arena, the weekend represents a profound sense of regional pride. For 2026 La Pine Rodeo Princess Natalee Küper, who hails from just down the road in Silver Lake, taking on her first rodeo court role has been an incredibly meaningful experience.
"I feel very, very honored, especially for this to be the first rodeo court that I'm doing and for it to be La Pine," Küper said. "I just feel very honored to represent this community because I just love the people here. I love everybody that I've met so far."
Küper added that the community’s welcoming nature highlights the inclusive spirit of the event.
"You don't have to necessarily live here or be from here to be a part of the community, and that's a great representation of that," she said.
La Pine Rodeo Days runs from Thursday, July 2 through Saturday, July 4. Festivities throughout the holiday weekend include nightly pro rodeo performances, a local vendor market, and a community parade.
Gates open each evening starting Thursday at 5:45 PM, with the main rodeo events kicking off at 7:00 PM.
