Saddle Up: Your Guide to the Old Fort Days Rodeo in Fort Smith

Get ready to experience a Fort Smith legacy like no other. For over 92 years, the Old Fort Days Rodeo has been a vibrant tradition that unites the cowboy spirit of Arkansas and Oklahoma with generations of families, fans and rodeo legends.

 

A Little Rodeo History

A line of performers ride their horses while carrying flags of countries, sponsors, and military branches.

Rodeo, as we know it today, grew out of the everyday skills required by working ranchers across the American West. Events like roping, bronc riding and steer wrestling originated as friendly competitions among cowboys to demonstrate who could best handle the tough and dangerous tasks of ranch life. As towns expanded and cattle drives became part of American folklore, rodeos evolved into organized spectacles that celebrate the cowboy's grit, skill, and spirit. 

 

In Fort Smith, the tradition of horsemanship and frontier resilience found a natural home. Positioned along key routes for westward expansion and cattle trade, Fort Smith became a hub for ranchers, traders and military pioneers. By the early 20th century, community celebrations and livestock exhibitions evolved into the Old Fort Days Rodeo. 

 

Fort Smith officially established its rodeo tradition in 1933, blending its rich Western heritage with the larger rodeo movement sweeping across America. Nearly a century later, the Old Fort Days Rodeo reflects the frontier courage and cowboy spirit that helped shape the region. 

 

Why the Old Fort Days Rodeo is Special

A cowboy leaps from his horse after tossing his rope at the Old Fort Days Rodeo.

The Old Fort Days Rodeo is more than just a week of thrilling competitions; it is a living tradition that has defined Fort Smith's connection to the American West for over 92 years. Since its beginnings in 1933, the rodeo has celebrated the rich ranching heritage of the Arkansas and Oklahoma frontier, where cowboys once shaped the culture and economy of the region. The rodeo represents a proud cooperative effort between Arkansas and Oklahoma agricultural communities, highlighting the enduring bond between neighbors who built their livelihoods on the land.

 

Today, the rodeo is an iconic location that symbolizes Fort Smith's longstanding commitment to preserving cowboy traditions. Originally developed through the leadership of passionate community members like Kay Rodgers himself, the park has grown into a premier venue, offering a towering, open-air arena that has welcomed generations of fans and contestants. The Old Fort Days Rodeo also distinguishes itself by giving back: a portion of the event's proceeds supports scholarships for young riders and students pursuing agricultural education, ensuring that the legacy of horsemanship, ranching, and land stewardship continues for the next generation. Whether you're a longtime fan or experiencing your first rodeo, Old Fort Days captures the authentic, unbreakable spirit of Fort Smith.

 
Details: Old Fort Days Rodeo 

Four black and white draft horses with feathered hooves pull a family in a carriage at Old Fort Days Rodeo in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

 

The action begins with a Showcase Day, May 6, a casual, come-and-go night to honor the sponsors, box seat holders, and to preview what's coming during a media day. The official rodeo always opens on Memorial Day with a Patriotic Night Celebration honoring our veterans and heroes. Tuesday focuses on breast cancer survivors, encouraging attendees to wear pink. Everyone is invited to come out on Wednesday in your Wranglers for Family Night, and the significant events build throughout the weekend. 

 

The weekend culminates with final competitions on Friday and Saturday evenings, featuring big buckles and cash prizes. Don't miss the live music on the main stage every night of the competition. 

 

Expect classic rodeo action, family-friendly activities, midway games, and opportunities to explore Fort Smith while you're here.

 

 

Rodeo Events You'll See

A rider climbs the rodeo fencing while two Cowboys attempt to distract a bull at Old Fort Days Rodeo

The events at Old Fort Days Rodeo reflect the original ranching skills necessary on the frontier:

  • Roping: Speed and skill in capturing cattle.

  • Steer Wrestling: Taking down a steer by hand.

  • Saddle Bronc & Bareback Riding: Taming rough horses.

  • Bull Riding: Eight seconds of pure adrenaline.

  • Barrel Racing: Speed racing by female competitors.

  • Breakaway Roping: Fast roping events for women, one of the first rodeos to introduce this event nationally.

 

And for the kids:

  • Mutton Bustin': Young riders compete by riding sheep.

  • Junior Bull Riding: Divided by age groups, from walk/trot to advanced.

  • Wild Pony Races: Small teams try to catch and ride a young Shetland pony!

 

All of this leads to big moments, buckles, and monetary prizes throughout the week. The PRCA (Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association) and the WPRA (Women's Professional Rodeo Association) sanction the rodeo, and contestants must possess a rodeo card to participate. You can register for junior events through the local FFA partners. 

 

Special Events and Recognitions 

A multi-colored horse bucks while the rider attempts to hold on at the Old Fort Rodeo in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

  • Memorial Day Parade: Monday, May 27, at 10:00 a.m., a community-wide tribute to veterans and service in downtown Fort Smith. 

  • Patriot of the Year: Honoring JoElla Skaggs, a lifelong educator and patriotism advocate.

  • Cancer Survivor Recognition Night: Celebrating those who have fought and overcome cancer. Are you tough enough to wear pink?

  • Kids' Activities: Bounce houses, mechanical bulls, and play areas are open nightly inside Kay Rodgers Park.

 

Concessions will be strolling through the stands this year, so you'll spend less time waiting in line and more time enjoying the show!

 


Stay and Explore

While you're in town for the Rodeo, make Fort Smith your base for even more adventures:

Need a place to stay? Discover great options at Discover Fort Smith Hotels.

 

The Old Fort Days Rodeo has been a place where tradition meets adrenaline for almost a century. Whether you're a seasoned rodeo fan, a first-time visitor, or someone looking for a unique way to celebrate Memorial Day week, this event offers something unforgettable.

 

Join us from May 26 to 31 at Kay Rodgers Park, where the stars shine brightly, and the cowboy spirit continues to ride strong.