Little Big Horn Stampede: Montana's Premier Summer Rodeo Experience

When the July sun stretches long across the Montana plains and the scent of sage mingles with the summer breeze, the Big Horn County Fairgrounds in Hardin, Montana transforms into a showcase of western heritage and rodeo excellence. The Little Big Horn Stampede, a PRCA-sanctioned event, returns July 25-26, 2025, bringing with it the thunder of hooves, the roar of the crowd, and the timeless traditions that make rodeo the heartbeat of the American West.

A Montana Rodeo Tradition

The Little Big Horn Stampede has established itself as one of Montana's must-see summer rodeo events, drawing competitors and spectators from across the Mountain Circuit and beyond. Set against the backdrop of Big Horn County's stunning landscape, this two-day celebration of western skill and determination offers more than $22,000 in prize money, attracting top-tier talent eager to showcase their abilities in the arena.

"There's something special about rodeo in Montana," says a veteran competitor who's made the Stampede a regular stop on his summer circuit. "The fans here understand rodeo. They appreciate the skill, the dedication, and the grit it takes to compete at this level. When you nod your head in Hardin, you know you're performing for folks who truly love this sport."

World-Class Competition

As a PRCA-sanctioned event, the Little Big Horn Stampede delivers the full complement of rodeo action that fans have come to expect. The arena dirt will fly during classic events including:

• Bareback Riding: Where man and horse battle in a test of strength and balance

• Steer Wrestling: The ultimate display of cowboy athleticism and timing

• Team Roping: Precision teamwork between header and heeler

• Saddle Bronc Riding: Rodeo's classic event, combining grace with raw power

• Tie-Down Roping: A showcase of horseback skill and on-the-ground speed

• Barrel Racing: Where fractions of seconds separate champions from contenders

• Bull Riding: Eight seconds of pure adrenaline as cowboys face off against bovine athletes weighing up to 2,000 pounds

• Breakaway Roping: Lightning-fast action showcasing the skill of women ropers

Each performance will feature a full slate of events, giving spectators the complete rodeo experience whether they attend Friday evening, Saturday afternoon, or both days of competition.

More Than Just Rodeo

While the competitive events form the heart of the Little Big Horn Stampede, the experience extends far beyond the arena action. The Big Horn County Fairgrounds comes alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the West throughout the weekend.

Vendor booths line the midway, offering everything from authentic western wear and handcrafted jewelry to local Montana products. The aroma of barbecue, kettle corn, and fair favorites fills the air, while live music between events keeps the energy high.

Families will find plenty to enjoy with a dedicated Kids Zone featuring face painting, pony rides, and interactive western-themed activities designed to introduce the next generation to rodeo traditions. Young fans can even participate in the calf scramble, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Before each performance, don't miss the grand entry—a colorful spectacle of flags, fast horses, and patriotic celebration that sets the tone for the competition to follow. Special exhibitions throughout the weekend might include trick riding demonstrations, mutton bustin' for the youngest cowboys and cowgirls, or heritage displays highlighting the rich history of ranching in Big Horn County.

The Venue: Big Horn County Fairgrounds

The Big Horn County Fairgrounds provides the perfect setting for this celebration of western heritage. Located in Hardin, Montana, the venue offers excellent sightlines throughout the arena, ensuring every seat provides a great view of the action.

The fairgrounds feature ample parking, accessible seating options, and modern amenities while maintaining the authentic western atmosphere that makes rodeo special. Concession stands throughout the grounds offer refreshments, while covered seating areas provide relief from the summer sun.

For those unfamiliar with the area, the fairgrounds sit just minutes from downtown Hardin, making it easy to explore local restaurants, shops, and attractions before or after the rodeo performances.

Planning Your Stampede Experience

When to Arrive

Gates open two hours before each performance, giving spectators plenty of time to explore the vendor areas, enjoy pre-rodeo entertainment, and find their seats before the action begins. The main performances are scheduled for:

• Friday, July 25, 2025: 7:00 PM

• Saturday, July 26, 2025: 2:00 PM

For the full experience, plan to arrive early and stay late—the atmosphere before and after the official competition is part of what makes the Little Big Horn Stampede special.

Securing Your Seat

Tickets for the 2025 Little Big Horn Stampede will go on sale May 25, 2025, and will be available for purchase directly through this website. Based on previous years' attendance, securing tickets early is highly recommended, especially for premium seating sections.

Several ticket options will be available:

• Single-day general admission

• Single-day reserved seating

• Two-day passes (the best value for experiencing the entire event)

• VIP packages (including special amenities and exclusive access areas)

• Family packages

• Discounted rates for children, seniors, and military personnel

All seating is designed to provide excellent views of the arena, but reserved sections offer specific assigned seats closer to the action. General admission areas allow you to choose your own spot within designated sections on a first-come, first-served basis.

Making the Most of Your Visit

The Little Big Horn Stampede offers more than just a few hours of entertainment—it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and community of Montana rodeo. To make the most of your experience:

Dress for Success: July in Montana typically brings warm days and cool evenings. Layered clothing, comfortable footwear, and a good hat will keep you comfortable throughout your visit. Don't forget sunscreen for daytime performances!

Capture the Memories: Cameras are welcome (though professional equipment may have restrictions), so bring yours to document the action and atmosphere.

Explore Hardin: While in town for the rodeo, take time to discover local restaurants, shops, and attractions. The area's rich history, including its proximity to the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, makes it worth extending your stay.

Accommodations: Hardin offers several lodging options, but rooms fill quickly during rodeo weekend. Consider making reservations well in advance or exploring options in nearby communities.

A Community Celebration

What truly sets the Little Big Horn Stampede apart is how it brings together the community. Local businesses rally behind the event, volunteers dedicate countless hours, and the entire region celebrates its western heritage.

"This isn't just a sporting event—it's a reunion," explains a longtime Stampede volunteer. "You'll see families who have been attending for generations sitting alongside first-time visitors. By the end of the weekend, they're all part of the same rodeo family."

The economic impact extends throughout Big Horn County, with visitors filling restaurants, shops, and hotels. Local youth organizations often participate in the event, raising funds through concessions or special activities while learning valuable skills and connecting with their heritage.

The Circuit Connection

For PRCA competitors, the Little Big Horn Stampede represents an important stop on the Mountain Circuit, offering not just substantial prize money but also valuable points toward circuit finals qualifications and year-end standings. The timing—mid-summer when the rodeo season is in full swing—makes it a strategic competition for cowboys and cowgirls chasing championship dreams.

Many contestants will arrive in Hardin having competed at other Montana rodeos in previous days, perhaps in Three Forks or Belt, before continuing their journey to upcoming events in neighboring states. This rodeo road creates a unique camaraderie among competitors who might be rivals in the arena but are colleagues in their shared pursuit of rodeo excellence.

A Tradition Worth Experiencing

Whether you're a lifelong rodeo fan or curious about experiencing this uniquely American sport for the first time, the Little Big Horn Stampede offers the perfect opportunity to connect with the traditions, skills, and values that have defined the West for generations.

From the opening notes of the national anthem to the final bull ride, from the laughter of children experiencing their first rodeo to the knowing nods of veteran fans appreciating a particularly skilled run, the Stampede delivers moments that resonate long after the dust settles.

Mark your calendars for July 25-26, 2025, and prepare to be part of a Montana tradition that continues to capture the spirit of the West while creating new memories for all who attend. When the announcer calls "Let's rodeo!" at the Little Big Horn Stampede, you'll understand why this celebration of western heritage remains as relevant and exciting today as the cowboy traditions it honors.

Tickets go on sale May 25, 2025. We'll see you in Hardin!