An Osceola County tradition returns this weekend, celebrating the start of summer with bucking bulls and fast-paced horseback riding to enthrall the community.
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The 157th Silver Spurs Rodeo is in Kissimmee this weekend, presenting families with the rodeo’s eight classic events: bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, team roping, tie-down roping, women’s breakaway roping and steer wrestling. The largest rodeo east of the Mississippi, which dates back to 1944, celebrates a continuation of the agricultural legacy at Osceola Heritage Park with three nights of events Friday-Sunday.
What started as a way to support U.S. troops fighting in World War II has evolved into a civic organization comprising more than 300 members.
“I’m humbled by the opportunity to serve a club that has helped shape the heart of Osceola County for 85 years and one to which my own roots are deeply connected,” said Kaye Whaley, the rodeo’s big boss, in a news release. “We remain committed to preserving the traditions that make this rodeo a cornerstone of our hometown while supporting the nonprofits, youth programs and families we are proud to serve. It is truly an honor to help carry forward a legacy that belongs to all of us.”
The slate of events kicks off June 4 with the free-admission Miss Silver Spurs Pageant, which begins at 6 p.m. and is open to the public. At the rodeo, which begins at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, fans can see the Junior Quadrille Team perform a square dance on horseback and enjoy the rodeo clown in between the traditional events.
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Veterans and active-duty military personnel can receive a free hot dog or hamburger with a drink by showing proof of service at the box office.
As a charitable organization, the Silver Spurs Riding Club donates proceeds from ticket sales to support nonprofits such as the Opportunity Center, Inc., and the Osceola Council on Aging.
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If you go
The 157th Silver Spurs Rodeo kicks off at 7:30 p.m. June 5-6 at 1875 Silver Spurs Lane in Kissimmee. Tickets cost between $15-$35. Children 3 and younger enter for free with lap seating. Parking is free. More information: silverspursrodeo.com
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