Preparations are in full swing for the 80th Crooked River Roundup

(Update: Adding video)

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Hundreds are pouring into the cowboy capital of Oregon for this years Crooked River Roundup. The unofficial kick started this evening in downtown Prineville for the Stampede Street Party. 

Steve Holiday, who is President of the Crooked River Roundup told KTVZ News, "Even though you have big data centers up on the hill, there are still ranches, there are still cowboys. We are called the cowboy capital of Oregon for a reason".

The upcoming Crooked River Roundup is extra special, celebrating its 80th year in existence. 

Holiday, who's a third generation resident of Crook County says its crucial in passing along their values to the next generation, "It helps preserve the western way of life. Keeping it forefront, top of mind. Making sure people know and understand this is still a rural community".

The unofficial kickoff took place Wednesday evening in downtown Prineville for the Stampede Street Party.

Just a few miles away at the Crook County Fairgrounds, athletes prepared for the three day rodeo. The historic event not only celebrates Crook County's rich western culture, but brings in tourism bucks as well.

One of those people who benefits from the money coming is Jeffrey from Sangers Gourmet Burgers, "Well, I've got 200 pounds cooked, so let's hope I use all those," he told KTVZ News inside his food truck. 

Though it's his first Crooked River Roundup, its far from his first rodeo, "I do the festivals in Bend, and I do the Klamath County Fair, Crook County Fair, Wasco County Fair", he said.

Jeffrey and his fellow vendors are ready for jam packed week ahead, "As an antelope resident. I'm surrounded by neighboring ranches, and it's it's just a way to get involved in the ranching community".

KTVZ News is proud sponsor Thursday night's Calf Scramble and will have live reporting from the fairgrounds in our evening broadcasts.