LISTEN TO ROPIN' THE RODEO
NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The historic Buffalo Bill Rodeo, now recognized as Nebraska’s largest rodeo and a PRCA Hall of Fame event, kicks off its four-night run next Wednesday, June 18, in North Platte.
Levi Fisher, chairman of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo Committee, and Justin Thompson, co-chair, joined Derek Beck of the North Platte Post this week to preview the annual event, which runs through June 21 as part of NebraskaLand Days.
“We’re now the largest rodeo in Nebraska with what we’ve increased our purse to,” said Fisher. “It’s all about trying to up ourselves every year. Everybody knows about NebraskaLand Days and the Buffalo Bill Rodeo—we just want to keep building on that legacy.”
Organizers credit community support, longstanding sponsorships and a deep roster of volunteers for the rodeo’s continued success and national reputation. Fisher noted that North Platte’s pride in hosting the event fuels its growth and helps attract top-tier rodeo athletes.
“Guys that have been part of NebraskaLand Days for 40 years still want to see this grow,” he said. “It’s our chance to showcase North Platte and kick off the summer.”
This year’s rodeo will once again feature livestock from Beutler and Son, whose elite stock frequently appears at the National Finals Rodeo (NFR). Thompson emphasized the importance of quality animals to the rodeo’s success.
“These are true animal athletes,” he said. “They get better every year, just like the cowboys and cowgirls. Beutler and Son bring the kind of stock that contestants can win on.”
A key change this year is the earlier nightly start time. Rodeo performances will now begin at 7:30 p.m., moved up from the traditional 8 p.m. start to accommodate families and working spectators.
“We’ve heard from the community—they love coming out, but it gets late,” said Fisher. “We want it to be a family-friendly experience and this helps get folks home earlier.”
Tickets are available in advance at nebraskalanddays.com or by calling 888-313-5606. Organizers urge rodeo fans not to wait—last year’s Saturday night performance sold out.
For full details, reports and updates, visit northplattepost.com.