The Brush Rodeo: A Fourth of July Tradition in Colorado's Eastern Plains
When the summer sun beats down on Colorado's eastern plains and the scent of barbecue fills the air, the good folks of Brush, Colorado know it's time for one of the most anticipated events of the year: the Brush Rodeo. This PRCA-sanctioned event has become a cornerstone of Independence Day celebrations in Morgan County, drawing competitors and spectators from across the Mountain States Circuit and beyond.
A Patriotic Tradition Under the Colorado Sky
The 2025 Brush Rodeo will thunder into the Morgan County Fair Grounds from July 2-4, continuing a cherished tradition that has deep roots in this agricultural community. For three action-packed days, the fairgrounds transform into a showcase of western heritage, professional competition, and hometown pride.
What makes the Brush Rodeo special isn't just the caliber of competition—though with a $37,500 purse, it certainly attracts top talent. It's the unique blend of professional rodeo excellence and small-town Fourth of July celebration that creates an atmosphere unlike any other rodeo on the circuit.
"There's something magical about competing during Independence Day," notes one regular competitor. "The crowds are electric, the community is all-in, and riding under those fairground lights with fireworks on the horizon—that's as American as it gets."
Where Champions Are Made
The Brush Rodeo proudly features all seven classic PRCA events, offering spectators a complete rodeo experience:
Bareback Riding – Perhaps the most physically demanding eight seconds in sports, bareback riders grip a simple handhold while the bronc beneath them explodes from the chute. Points are awarded for the rider's control and spurring technique, as well as the horse's bucking performance.
Steer Wrestling – Also known as "bulldogging," this event showcases raw strength and perfect timing as cowboys leap from horseback onto a running steer, using leverage and technique to bring the animal to the ground.
Team Roping – The only true team event in professional rodeo pairs a header (who ropes the steer's horns) with a heeler (who ropes the hind legs). Success demands flawless communication between partners and their horses.
Saddle Bronc Riding – Often called rodeo's classic event, saddle bronc riding evolved directly from ranch work. Riders must maintain perfect form while synchronizing their movements with the bucking horse beneath them.
Tie-Down Roping – A test of speed, skill, and cowboy know-how, competitors must rope a calf, dismount, and tie three of the calf's legs together in the shortest time possible.
Barrel Racing – In this women's event, competitors and their horses navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels at breakneck speeds, where mere hundredths of a second can separate champions from the pack.
Bull Riding – The most dangerous eight seconds in sports closes each performance, as cowboys attempt to ride one ton of twisting, bucking bovine athlete with only a flat braided rope for support.
The Brush Rodeo also delights families with the crowd-favorite Mutton Bustin' competition, where young cowboys and cowgirls (typically ages 4-7) try their hand at riding sheep, often creating the most memorable moments of the evening.
Where the Circuit's Best Compete
As a PRCA-sanctioned event in the Mountain States Circuit, the Brush Rodeo attracts competitors from Colorado, Wyoming, and beyond who are working toward Circuit Finals qualifications and ultimately, the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.
The timing of the Brush Rodeo makes it a key stop during "Cowboy Christmas"—the lucrative Independence Day run when contestants often compete in multiple rodeos across several states in just a few days. The substantial purse and strategic dates ensure that Brush attracts some of the sport's most accomplished athletes.
The stock for the 2025 Brush Rodeo will be provided by one of the PRCA's premier stock contracting companies, bringing championship-caliber bucking horses and bulls that give contestants the opportunity to post winning scores.
More Than Just Rodeo
While the rodeo performances form the centerpiece of the celebration, the Brush Rodeo offers a complete western experience that extends far beyond the arena.
Before each evening's main performance, attendees can enjoy a variety of pre-rodeo activities, including western vendor booths featuring everything from handcrafted leather goods to custom western jewelry. The fairgrounds come alive with the sounds of boot-stomping music, the smells of fairground favorites from local food vendors, and activities for cowboys and cowgirls of all ages.
Each night after the final bull has bucked, the celebration continues with live entertainment. On the final evening, July 4th, the skies above Morgan County Fair Grounds will light up with a spectacular fireworks display, providing the perfect patriotic finale to the three-day event.
A Community Celebration
The Brush Rodeo isn't just a sporting event—it's a community institution that brings together local businesses, volunteers, and residents to showcase the best of Morgan County. Local sponsors play a crucial role in making the rodeo possible, with their support helping to increase prize money, improve facilities, and enhance the overall experience for competitors and spectators alike.
For many local families, working at or volunteering for the Brush Rodeo has become a multi-generational tradition. From the committee members who plan year-round to the volunteers who staff concessions and take tickets, the rodeo represents community spirit at its finest.
Securing Your Spot at the Action
For those looking to experience this slice of authentic western heritage, securing tickets to the Brush Rodeo should be a priority. Tickets for the 2025 event will go on sale beginning May 2, 2025, and if history is any indication, they'll move quickly—especially for the July 4th performance.
Tickets will be available for purchase directly through this website when sales open. Rodeo enthusiasts are encouraged to mark their calendars and purchase early to ensure the best possible seating options.
The Morgan County Fair Grounds offers both covered grandstand seating and general admission areas, allowing spectators to choose their preferred rodeo-watching experience. Accessible seating options are also available to ensure all fans can enjoy the action comfortably.
For those bringing the whole family, the Brush Rodeo offers special rates for children, making this an affordable entertainment option for groups of all sizes. Multi-performance packages are also available for die-hard rodeo fans who don't want to miss a single ride or run.
Making the Most of Your Visit
For out-of-town visitors, the Brush Rodeo provides an excellent opportunity to explore this charming eastern Colorado community. The town of Brush offers several accommodation options, though booking early is recommended as rooms fill quickly during rodeo week.
The Morgan County Fair Grounds is easily accessible with ample parking available. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the pre-rodeo festivities and secure parking closer to the action.
Rodeo performances typically begin in the evening, but the fairgrounds come alive hours earlier with vendors, food, and activities. Many spectators make a full day of their rodeo experience, arriving in the afternoon to shop, eat, and soak in the atmosphere before the main event.
Safety First
The Brush Rodeo Committee prioritizes the safety and comfort of all attendees. Emergency services and first aid stations are strategically located throughout the grounds, and security personnel help ensure a family-friendly environment.
While the Colorado summer brings perfect evenings for outdoor entertainment, attendees should come prepared with sunscreen, hats, and water bottles for daytime activities. The covered grandstands provide shade during performances, but the Colorado sun can be intense during pre-rodeo hours.
A Tradition Worth Experiencing
Whether you're a lifelong rodeo fan or someone looking to experience this uniquely American sport for the first time, the Brush Rodeo offers the perfect blend of professional competition, western heritage, and small-town celebration.
As one of the highlights of the Mountain States Circuit's summer run, this event showcases rodeo at its finest while wrapping it in the patriotic spirit of Independence Day. The combination creates memories that last long after the final bull has bucked and the last firework has faded from the night sky.
When the calendar turns to July in 2025, the roads leading to Brush will fill with trucks pulling horse trailers, families in SUVs, and rodeo fans of all stripes, all converging on the Morgan County Fair Grounds for three days of tradition, competition, and celebration.
The Brush Rodeo isn't just a sporting event—it's a living piece of American heritage, a showcase of agricultural tradition, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the West. Don't miss your chance to be part of this Colorado tradition when tickets go on sale May 2, 2025.
Mark your calendars now for July 2-4, 2025, and prepare to experience Independence Day the cowboy way at the Brush Rodeo!