Douglas County Rodeao Returns with New Events, Live Music, and Community Giving
September 10 All day
Douglas County Rodeo Returns with New Events, Live Music, and Community Giving
Gardnerville, NV (July 21, 2026) — The Douglas County Rodeo returns September 11–12, 2026, with its biggest celebration yet, expanding beyond rodeo weekend into a month of western events, live entertainment, community giving, and family friendly experiences. From the debut of the Douglas County Rodeo Stampede to patriotic tributes honoring America’s heroes, this year’s rodeo continues to grow while staying rooted in the traditions that have made it one of Northern Nevada’s premier western events.
“Each year, our goal is to create an experience that offers something for everyone while staying true to the values that built DCR,” says Bailey Sanchez, co-owner of Douglas County Rodeo. “Whether you’re coming for the rodeo, the concerts, the new Stampede, or simply to spend time with family and friends, we’re excited to welcome our community back for another unforgettable year.”
“The Douglas County Rodeo has become so much more than a weekend event,” adds Brooke Sullivan, co-owner of Douglas County Rodeo. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate western heritage, give back to our community, and bring people together. We’re especially honored to recognize our military members, veterans, and first responders throughout this year’s event as we reflect on the spirit of service and unity that defines our community.”
2026 Event Highlights Include:
Friday, August 14
- Douglas County Rodeo Fight Night at Carson Valley Inn featuring amateur Muay Thai competition with up-and-coming fighters from across Northern Nevada and neighboring regions.
Thursday, September 10
- NEW! Douglas County Rodeo Stampede at the Douglas County Fairgrounds featuring flat track motorcycle racing, including youth, vintage, amateur, professional, and Hooligan classes, along with the fan favorite Outlaws vs. First Responders race.
- Live entertainment, food vendors, local businesses, and family friendly activities.
- Tattoo Show by Rice Street Tattoo showcasing talented tattoo artists and live tattooing.
Friday, September 11
- Douglas County Rodeo Golf Roundup at Carson Valley Golf Course.
- Opening night of the Douglas County Rodeo featuring rodeo competitions, Mutton Bustin’, Kids Day activities, food and retail vendors, community exhibits, and the Tattoo Show by Rice Street Tattoo.
- Live concert following the rodeo featuring Redferrin.
- Patriot night – attendees wear red, white, and blue.
Saturday, September 12
- Second night of rodeo action featuring family entertainment, vendors, community exhibits, the Tattoo Show by Rice Street Tattoo, and western traditions.
- Live concert following the rodeo featuring Casey Donahew.
Sunday, September 13
- Cowboy Church inside the Douglas County Rodeo arena, led by Pastor Rich Lammay of High Sierra Fellowship.
Throughout the rodeo weekend, this year’s theme, “Honoring Our Heroes,” will pay tribute to military members, veterans, first responders, and their families while remembering the lives forever changed by September 11 through special ceremonies and patriotic moments woven into each night’s programming.
Giving back remains at the heart of the Douglas County Rodeo. This year, the organization will donate $7,000 to the Douglas County Community Services Foundation. A portion of ticket proceeds will be donated to Gardnerville Elementary School and Freedom Ministries Co-op to support educational enrichment, classroom resources, and school supplies for local students.
“Watching this event continue to grow while remaining community focused has been incredibly rewarding,” says Justin Schlag, co-owner of Douglas County Rodeo. “Every ticket purchased helps create an experience families can enjoy together while also supporting organizations that make a lasting difference here in Douglas County.”
Tickets are available now at douglascountynvrodeo.com.
To stay up to date with the Douglas County Rodeo, follow along on social media or visit douglascountynvrodeo.com. For interviews or media inquiries, contact brooke@theabasto.co.
