Pull on your boots and get ready to kick up some dust at the Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, returning April 10 and 11 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover (215 Sydney Washer Rd). From corn dogs and funnel cake to live country music, animals, and classic rodeo competition, the two-night event brings together plenty to see, do, and eat—even if it’s your first rodeo. You can get your ticket here. 

Held rain or shine, the Tampa Bay Rodeo is much more than just a few hours in the stands. Gates open each day at 4:30 p.m., giving you time to wander the fairgrounds, grab a drink, sample the food, and take in the scene before the arena comes alive at 7:00 p.m.

Under the arena lights

Once the lights come on, a full rodeo competition takes over each night, featuring classic events like bull riding, bronco riding, barrel racing, and calf roping. Whether you’ve seen a rodeo before or this is your first time watching, the energy in the arena makes it easy to get pulled into the action.

The Family Festival portion of the evening gets started earlier, with live music from the Randy McNeeley Band taking the stage at 5:15 p.m. at the Busch Light Beer Barn. The laid-back country soundtrack sets the tone as people arrive, grab food, and start exploring the games and activities spread throughout the fairgrounds. 

Come hungry, stay a while

Outside the arena, the Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival leans fully into its festival side. Food vendors serve everything from barbecue, tacos, and hot-pressed Cuban sandwiches to funnel cake and other sweet treats. Pair it with an ice-cold beer, then find a spot to sit, snack, and soak up the atmosphere.

But food is only part of the draw. Test your skills on the mechanical bull, take aim at axe throwing, fly on the bungee trampoline, or challenge friends to a game of cornhole or giant Jenga. Some of the more unexpected highlights include the chance to take a ride on a monster truck and meet friendly goats and camels at the animal experience. With so much happening across the grounds, it’s easy to wander (and stay longer than planned).

Before you head home

The weekend also includes a moment of recognition, with a nod to America’s upcoming 250th birthday and appreciation for local law enforcement, fire, and rescue professionals who serve the community.

By the end of the night, people aren’t watching the clock at the Tampa Bay Rodeo—they’re sticking around. Tickets are available now for April 10 and 11 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. Denim optional, lingering encouraged. 

For schedules and more details, visit the event website and follow along on Facebook.