Hello Big Spring, Let’s Rodeo!

The ticket booth received a new look along with a new awning in order to combat the heat inside the booth and for those who wait in line to purchase their tickets. Gates to the rodeo will open 7 p.m. with Rodeo starting at 8 p.m. nightly June 20-22.

The Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo is one of the longest running rodeos in Texas. In less than one week, cowboys, cowgirls, horse trailers, cattle and more will be flooding the Howard County Rodeo Bowl for the 86th year.

When Big Spring residents hear that it's time for the rodeo, there are certain staples that come to mind: the legendary Quail Dobbs and the legacy he left; Mike Mathis, rodeo announcer; Quail Dobbs parade - a piece of history and living legacy; and who can forget those hard, cement seats. Those seats are part of what makes the local rodeo arena so unique and add a special ambiance to the wonderful world of rodeo, in Big Spring.

While there are some things that will always be associted with the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo, there is room for change and improvements. Over the past few years, there have been noticeable renovations taking place at the rodeo arena and this year that trend continues.

A couple of years ago the bucking shoots were redone along with the seat coating to preserve the concrete seating. About three years ago, the sky boxes also received renovation with a fresh coat of paint and some interior design.

The beer barn has also been improved, as well as numerous updates - including heating and cooling system, lighting, a raised stage and more - inside the Howard County Fair Barns. This year, those attending the rodeo will notice a big improvement as they walk onto a paved area instead of the previous dirt and rock surrounding the arena seating. A layer of asphalt is ready to be laid, just in time for this year's rodeo. New awnings have been placed on the ticket booth and the beer barn. Even the food truck area will be a little different this year, allowing more walking space.

Don't miss out on seeing all the new updates, new acts and more paired with a ton of tradition. The Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo will kick off this coming Thursday and wrap up Saturday night, with the rodeo dance featuring Wade Bowen.

Tickets for the dance are still available, as are rodeo tickets. Rodeo

Ticket prices are $12 Adults $8 Children

HERALD photo/amanda Duforat The beer barn received a makeover in the past couple of years, offering a way to keep the drinks colder and the staff cooler, while offering a western feel to the interior. This year, an awning was also added to allow the patrons to wait under the shade for their cold beverage.

Pre-sale $10 Adults $6 Children Locations: Chamber of Commerce Western Bank Wells Fargo Compass Bank State National Bank Lonestar State Bank Prosperity Bank CVB Wards Boot and Saddle Citizens FCU