Douglas County Fair & Rodeo 2026: Events, Tickets, Rodeo Schedule & Family Fun
Are you ready for summer fun the whole family will enjoy? The Douglas County Fair & Rodeo is where tradition, excitement, and community spirit come together for one unforgettable event. From award-winning rodeos and live entertainment to 4-H exhibits, carnival rides, delicious food, and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone.
Recognized as one of the Top 40 ProRodeos in the United States, the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo was also voted “Best Large Rodeo” by contestants in the Mountain States Circuit (Colorado and Wyoming) for the second consecutive year. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or planning your first visit, this Douglas County tradition is the perfect place to create lasting summer memories.
Know Before You Go
The Douglas County Fair and Rodeo starts on July 24 and runs through Aug. 2. General admission tickets are required for entry to the fairgrounds and cost $6. Children ages 2 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult and do not require a ticket.
Please note that grounds admission does not include access to ProRodeo events, concerts, or Farm-to-Table events, which require separate tickets.
Planning to ride the carnival rides? Purchase an unlimited ride wristband in advance for $40, which includes fairgrounds admission. Wristbands are valid for rides only and cannot be used for food or carnival games.
Parking is free at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, located at 500 Fairgrounds Drive in Castle Rock.
Get a Sneak Peak at the Hometown Rodeo
On Saturday, July 18, at 3 p.m., kick off Fair & Rodeo season at the free Hometown Rodeo. Family-friendly events include team roping, barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, and goat tail untying.
This event is also your chance to witness the long-standing tradition of crowning the 2027 Fair & Rodeo Royalty. The Hometown Rodeo takes place in the Outdoor Arena at the Douglas County Fairgrounds and is free to attend.
Western Heritage Welcome Weekend
Don’t miss a weekend of activities to celebrate Douglas County’s history and honor the Douglas County Fair and Rodeo.
Cattle Drive
July 24; 6 to 8 p.m.
Downtown Castle Rock
Watch as cowhands from Silverado Ranch drive a herd of Texas Longhorn through Downtown Castle Rock. Starting at Rock Park, the herd will continue along Perry Street before completing the journey in front of the Castle Rock Police Department. After the cattle drive, the fun continues at Festival Park. See additional performances by the Rocky Mountain Indigenous Dancers, take an old-time photo with the family, grab delicious food truck fare and enjoy entertainment for all ages — plus interactive experiences brought to you by Roundup Sponsor Renewal by Andersen of Colorado.
Douglas County Fair Parade
July 25; 9:30 a.m.
Downtown Castle Rock
Celebrate the Fair Parade in downtown Castle Rock, presented by the Castle Rock Chamber in partnership with the Town of Castle Rock. The parade starts on the south end of Town, and flows down Wilcox to Fourth Street, then Perry, and ends at Second Street.
Boots and Brews
July 25; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Festival Park, Castle Rock
After the parade, mosey on over to Festival Park for Boots & Brews. Get ready to test your skills on a mechanical bull while enjoying live country music that will keep your feet tapping. Savor delicious offerings from local breweries and indulge in tasty bites from food trucks.
Highlights of the Douglas County Fair and Rodeo
There is a whole lineup of exciting events that people of all ages are sure to enjoy. Here are a few of the highlights that you don’t want to miss.
Trace Adkins Kickoff Concert
July 24
Known for his rich baritone voice, chart-topping hits, and commanding stage presence, Trace Adkins brings classic country energy to the Fair’s kickoff concert. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music under the summer sky. Get tickets here.
AWOLNATION Concert
July 25
AWOLNATION, the powerhouse behind the multi-platinum hit “Sail,” has spent nearly two decades redefining the boundaries of electronic and alternative rock. With millions of records sold and streams worldwide, the band continues to innovate and inspire. Get tickets here.
Drone Show
July 24
Experience a spectacular drone show that takes entertainment to new heights. Hundreds of illuminated drones will create stunning patterns, animations, and dazzling effects synchronized to music. This family-friendly event combines technology and artistry for a truly memorable experience.
The first show begins at 8:15 p.m., with an encore performance at 10:30 p.m.
Colorado Farm-to-Table Brunch
July 26
Celebrate Colorado agriculture through an elevated culinary experience at the Colorado Farm-to-Table Brunch. Prepared by Coast2Coast, this chef-driven event showcases exceptional local ingredients, artful presentation, and innovative flavors. Get tickets here.
ProRodeo
July 30 to Aug. 2
Watch professional cowboys and cowgirls from across the country compete in some of rodeo’s most exciting events.
The July 30 performance features Roughstock Only with Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, and Bull Riding.
Performances from July 31 through Aug. 2 include:
- Bareback Riding
- Steer Wrestling
- Saddle Bronc Riding
- Tie-Down Roping
- Team Roping
- Barrel Racing
- Bull Riding
Special Appreciation Nights
Patriot Night ProRodeo – July 31
Verified active-duty military members, veterans, and retired military personnel receive a free ticket with grounds admission.
Cowboys for Cops ProRodeo – Aug. 2
Verified first responders, including law enforcement, EMS, and firefighters, receive a free ticket.
PRCA Youth Camp
Aug. 2
Young rodeo fans can get an up-close look at the sport during this one-day camp featuring demonstrations and experiences with bareback riding, steer wrestling, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, roping, and bull fighting. Get tickets here.
Photos courtesy of Douglas County Fair & Rodeo
Contest rules: Winner will be announced on July 21. To enter, subscribe to the Live Well Douglas County newsletter to receive monthly updates about events and activities. You can also earn multiple entries by following Live Well Douglas County’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Winner will be notified on July 21 by email or through Facebook or Instagram. Your information will not be shared.
