Molalla Buckeroo
2026
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The Molalla Buckeroo: Oregon's Premier July 4th Rodeo Since 1913
There are rodeos, and then there is the Molalla Buckeroo. Since 1913, this small city in the Willamette Valley has hosted one of the most beloved and enduring rodeo traditions in the Pacific Northwest. The 2026 Molalla Buckeroo runs from July 1 through July 4, bringing four days of professional rodeo competition, live entertainment, fireworks, carnival rides, and community celebration to the Molalla Rodeo Grounds at 815 East Shirley Street. For more than 110 years, the Buckeroo has been the heart and soul of Independence Day in Clackamas County — and for rodeo fans across Oregon, it is the event that defines summer.
Sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), the Molalla Buckeroo is no small-town exhibition. This is professional-grade rodeo featuring the best cowboys and cowgirls in the Columbia River Circuit competing for real prize money in events that test the limits of skill, courage, and athletic ability. The Buckeroo earned Columbia River Circuit Rodeo of the Year honors in 2005, a recognition that validated what locals had known for generations: this is world-class rodeo in a uniquely intimate, small-town setting.
A History Older Than Most Rodeos in America
The Molalla Buckeroo traces its origins to September 1913, when local firemen organized a rodeo as a fundraiser for equipment. What started as a community effort quickly grew into something much larger. By 1923, the Molalla Buckeroo Association was formally established to manage the growing event, and by 1925, a permanent arena had been constructed. Over the following century, the Buckeroo survived wars, economic downturns, and the changing tides of American culture — not just surviving, but thriving. Today it stands as one of the oldest continuously operating rodeos in the western United States, and its July 4th timing has made it inseparable from the fabric of Oregon's Independence Day celebrations.
The rodeo's longevity is rooted in the community that surrounds it. Molalla is a city of roughly 10,000 people nestled between the Cascade foothills and the agricultural heartland of the Willamette Valley. The Buckeroo is not just an event here — it is the event. Families who attended as children bring their own children and grandchildren. Local businesses display Buckeroo banners weeks in advance. The annual Giant Street Parade through downtown Molalla draws thousands of spectators and kicks off the festivities with floats, horses, marching bands, and community pride that money simply cannot buy.
Professional Rodeo Events
The competitive heart of the Molalla Buckeroo features the full slate of PRCA-sanctioned events that test every dimension of rodeo skill. Bull riding — the most dangerous and dramatic event in rodeo — headlines each evening performance, with riders attempting to stay aboard 2,000-pound bucking bulls for eight seconds. Bareback riding and saddle bronc riding showcase the classical horsemanship that built the rodeo tradition. Steer wrestling demands explosive speed and strength as cowboys leap from galloping horses to bring steers to the ground. Team roping and calf roping highlight the precision and partnership between rider and horse. Barrel racing brings breathtaking speed and agility as cowgirls navigate a cloverleaf pattern at full gallop.
What separates the Molalla Buckeroo from larger, more commercialized rodeos is the proximity. The rodeo grounds keep fans close to the action — close enough to hear the chutes bang open, close enough to feel the ground shake when a bull lands, close enough to see the determination on a cowboy's face as he wraps his hand around the rigging. It's visceral, authentic rodeo the way it was meant to be experienced.
Secure Your Buckeroo Tickets
The Molalla Buckeroo draws large crowds every year, especially for the July 4th finale with its spectacular fireworks display. Our verified resale marketplace offers authentic tickets at competitive prices from verified sellers. Every transaction includes buyer protection, and the price shown includes all fees — no hidden charges. Whether you're planning a single-evening visit or want to experience the full four-day run, our platform makes it easy to find your seats for Oregon's most storied rodeo.
Beyond the Arena: The Full Buckeroo Experience
The rodeo performances are the main attraction, but the Molalla Buckeroo is much more than what happens inside the arena. The four-day festival transforms the entire town into a celebration of western heritage, community, and Independence Day spirit. The Giant Street Parade — one of the largest parades in the region — winds through downtown Molalla with floats, horses, classic cars, marching bands, and entries from community organizations and businesses. It's a beloved tradition that draws thousands of spectators who line the streets hours before it begins.
The rodeo grounds themselves become a festival village during Buckeroo week. A full carnival with rides and games keeps families entertained between performances. Vendor booths sell everything from handmade leather goods and western wear to kettle corn and barbecue. Live music fills the evenings after the rodeo action concludes, and the atmosphere takes on the feeling of a county fair crossed with a rock concert. The July 4th fireworks display — launched from the rodeo grounds after the final evening performance — is widely considered one of the best in the Portland metro area, sending fans home with a spectacular patriotic finale.
The "Cowboy Christmas" Tradition
In professional rodeo circles, the week surrounding July 4th is known as "Cowboy Christmas" — the busiest stretch of the PRCA calendar, when dozens of rodeos across the country offer cowboys the chance to rack up earnings and climb the standings. The Molalla Buckeroo holds a special place in this tradition as one of the premier stops in the Columbia River Circuit. The combination of PRCA-level competition, generous prize money, and the electric atmosphere of a packed arena on Independence Day weekend makes Molalla a destination that top cowboys circle on their calendars every year.
For fans, Cowboy Christmas adds an extra layer of excitement. The cowboys competing at the Buckeroo aren't just going through the motions — they're fighting for standings points and paychecks that could determine whether they qualify for the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas at the end of the year. That competitive urgency translates directly into the quality of the performances. The rides are more aggressive, the runs are faster, and the stakes are palpable. It's professional rodeo at its most intense, and the Molalla Buckeroo delivers it in a setting that feels like a backyard compared to the massive arenas where the NFR takes place.
Getting to the Molalla Buckeroo
The Molalla Rodeo Grounds are located at 815 East Shirley Street in Molalla, Oregon, approximately 35 miles south of Portland. Here's how to plan your visit:
- Drive from Portland — Take I-205 south to the Molalla exit (Highway 213), then follow signs to the rodeo grounds. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes depending on traffic. Arrive early, as parking fills up quickly on peak nights.
- Plan for the weather — Early July in the Willamette Valley is typically warm and dry, with daytime temperatures in the 80s and evenings cooling into the 60s. Sunscreen, hats, and layers for the evening are recommended.
- Explore the grounds — Give yourself time before the rodeo performance to walk the vendor area, enjoy carnival rides, grab food from the concession stands, and take in the pre-show atmosphere.
- Stay for the fireworks — The July 4th fireworks show after the final performance is the crown jewel of the entire weekend. Plan your departure around it rather than trying to beat the traffic.
Quick Answers
What is the Molalla Buckeroo? The Molalla Buckeroo is a PRCA-sanctioned professional rodeo held annually in Molalla, Oregon, during the first week of July. Founded in 1913, it is one of the oldest continuously operating rodeos in the western United States and serves as the centerpiece of Independence Day celebrations in Clackamas County.
What is Cowboy Christmas? Cowboy Christmas is the unofficial name for the week surrounding July 4th in professional rodeo, when dozens of PRCA rodeos across the country compete simultaneously. It is the busiest and most lucrative stretch of the rodeo calendar, and cowboys often travel between multiple events in a single week to maximize their earnings and standings.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Molalla Buckeroo in 2026?
The 2026 Molalla Buckeroo runs from Wednesday, July 1 through Saturday, July 4, 2026. Evening rodeo performances take place each night, with the July 4th show serving as the grand finale complete with a fireworks display. Additional daytime activities, the carnival, and vendor areas are open throughout the four-day run, giving visitors plenty to experience beyond the main arena events.
Where is the Molalla Buckeroo held?
The Molalla Buckeroo takes place at the Molalla Rodeo Grounds, located at 815 East Shirley Street in Molalla, Oregon. The town of Molalla sits approximately 35 miles south of Portland in Clackamas County, nestled between the Cascade foothills and the agricultural lands of the Willamette Valley. The drive from downtown Portland takes roughly 45 minutes via I-205 and Highway 213.
Is the Molalla Buckeroo a professional rodeo?
Yes, the Molalla Buckeroo is fully sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and is a premier stop on the Columbia River Circuit. The rodeo was named Columbia River Circuit Rodeo of the Year in 2005. Professional cowboys compete for real prize money in standard PRCA events, and the competition takes place during Cowboy Christmas, the most competitive stretch of the entire rodeo season.
What rodeo events are featured at the Molalla Buckeroo?
The Buckeroo features the full range of PRCA-sanctioned events including bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, calf roping, and barrel racing. Each evening performance showcases all of these events, with bull riding traditionally serving as the dramatic finale. Specialty acts like donkey races add a lighthearted touch between the main competitive events.
Are there fireworks at the Molalla Buckeroo?
Yes, the Molalla Buckeroo features fireworks after each evening performance, with the July 4th fireworks show being the largest and most spectacular of the run. The Independence Day display is widely considered one of the best fireworks shows in the greater Portland area and draws fans who stay specifically for the patriotic finale after the final rodeo performance of the night.
Is the Molalla Buckeroo family-friendly?
Absolutely. The Molalla Buckeroo is one of the most family-friendly events in Oregon. In addition to the rodeo performances, the grounds feature a full carnival with rides and games suitable for all ages, vendor booths with food and crafts, live music, and the Giant Street Parade through downtown Molalla. Many families make the Buckeroo their annual Fourth of July tradition, bringing multiple generations together for the celebration.
How old is the Molalla Buckeroo?
The Molalla Buckeroo was first held in September 1913, making it over 110 years old. It began as a fundraiser organized by local firemen to purchase equipment and has grown into one of the most established rodeos in the Pacific Northwest. The Molalla Buckeroo Association was formally established in 1923, and a permanent arena was constructed in 1925. The event has been held continuously since its founding, surviving wars, economic challenges, and cultural shifts.
What is the Giant Street Parade?
The Giant Street Parade is a major community event that kicks off the Molalla Buckeroo festivities. The parade winds through downtown Molalla and features floats, horses, classic cars, marching bands, and entries from local organizations and businesses. It is one of the largest parades in the region and draws thousands of spectators who line the streets to watch. The parade captures the community spirit and western heritage that define the Buckeroo experience.
Can I buy resale tickets for the Molalla Buckeroo?
Yes, verified resale tickets for the Molalla Buckeroo are available through our marketplace. All listings come from authenticated sellers offering tickets at competitive prices with full buyer protection. The price displayed includes all fees with no hidden charges at checkout. Whether you want to attend a single evening performance or experience the full four-day run including the July 4th finale, our platform provides a secure way to purchase your Buckeroo tickets.
What should I bring to the Molalla Buckeroo?
For the most comfortable experience, bring sunscreen and a hat for daytime activities, layers for cooler evening temperatures, and comfortable footwear suitable for walking on dirt and grass surfaces. Cash is useful for some vendor booths and carnival games. A blanket or camp chair can enhance the carnival and pre-show experience. Most importantly, bring your enthusiasm for professional rodeo and authentic western culture in one of Oregon's most historic and welcoming small towns.
How far is Molalla from Portland?
Molalla is approximately 35 miles south of Portland, Oregon. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes via I-205 South and Highway 213. During Buckeroo week, especially on July 4th, traffic in the Molalla area can be heavier than usual, so allowing extra travel time is advisable. The rodeo grounds have on-site parking, but arriving early is recommended for peak performances to secure convenient spots.
What other activities are available besides the rodeo?
Beyond the rodeo arena, the Molalla Buckeroo offers a full carnival with rides and games, live music performances, vendor booths with food and merchandise, the Giant Street Parade, and the nightly fireworks displays. The rodeo grounds create a festival atmosphere where families can spend an entire day or evening enjoying the full range of entertainment. The surrounding Molalla area also offers scenic countryside, local wineries, and outdoor recreation for visitors who want to extend their trip beyond the Buckeroo itself.