About Mandan Rodeo Days
147 Years of Grit,
Glory & Tradition
One of the oldest rodeos in the world. Right here in Mandan.
Mandan Rodeo Days began on July 4, 1879 - ten years before North Dakota was even a state. What started as a simple celebration with a baseball game and pony races has grown into one of the most respected PRCA rodeos in the country. Held every year over the Independence Day holiday at Dale Pahlke Arena, the rodeo is organized by the Mandan Rodeo Days Committee, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and growing this tradition.
Our History
From Pony Races to Pro Rodeo
A legacy that started before statehood
1879
A 4th of July celebration in Mandan features a baseball game and pony races - the first seeds of what would become Mandan Rodeo Days.
1882
The first documented bronc riding competition takes place in Mandan, establishing rodeo as a cornerstone of the celebration.
1923
"Badlands Bill" McCarty helps create the Mandan Roundup, formalizing the event and drawing regional attention.
1940s
The Mandan Rodeo becomes famous as part of the "Big Loop" alongside Cheyenne Frontier Days and the Calgary Stampede. Legends like Casey Tibbs and Toots Mansfield compete. Celebrities like Gene Autry entertain.
1951
An estimated 11,000 people attend the July 4th performance - a record crowd that cements Mandan's place as a premier rodeo destination.
1989
The Mandan Jaycee Rodeo is the highlight of North Dakota's centennial celebration, marking the last performance at the original rodeo grounds.
2016
Mandan Rodeo Days is named PRCA Badlands Circuit Rodeo of the Year - official recognition of the event's quality and growth.
2023
The rodeo moves to its new permanent home - the multi-million dollar Dale Pahlke Arena at Dakota Community Bank & Trust Rodeo Grounds.
2026
The 147th Mandan Rodeo Days celebrates America's 250th birthday with three nights of PRCA Playoff Series rodeo, theme nights, and Mandan's largest Independence Day celebration ever.
Est. 1879
One of the World's Oldest Rodeos
PRCA/WPRA
Playoff Series Sanctioned
$162K+
Annual Prize Money
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