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Snake River Stampede

Class of 2024

The Snake River Stampede in Idaho traces its roots back to the Nampa Harvest Festival of 1911. Initially a local celebration featuring agricultural exhibits and contests, it evolved in 1913 with the addition of bucking contests. These early events lacked formal seating, with spectators standing around roped-off areas. By the 1920s, calf roping and bulldogging were added, and the rodeo gained prominence as the backbone of the Harvest Festival.
In 1937, the rodeo separated from the festival, moved to July, and joined the Rodeo Cowboys Association, becoming a professional event known as the Snake River Stampede. President Franklin Roosevelt officially inaugurated the Stampede remotely from Hyde Park, New York, with a ceremonial telegraph key.
The rodeo's arena transformed in 1950 with the construction of a new horseshoe-shaped stadium seating approximately 10,000 spectators. It featured entertainment by top western stars like Gene Autry, Roy Rogers & Dale Evans, Rex Allen, and the Sons of the Pioneers, drawing large crowds and solidifying its national reputation.
The Snake River Stampede continued to evolve over the years. In 1997, it moved to the Ford Idaho Center, a modern indoor facility, enhancing the spectator experience with its comfortable and weather-protected environment. This transition marked a significant milestone in the rodeo's history, reflecting its growth and adaptation to contemporary audience expectations while preserving its rich tradition of western sports and entertainment.
"On October 11th and 12th, the Canyon Crest Event Center in Twin Falls, Idaho will be transformed into a rodeo haven. Feel the excitement as this year’s inductees’ step into the spotlight. Join us for an unforgettable Friday night Meet and Greet and Rodeo reunion, bigger and better than ever. Enjoy Live Music by Heath Clark, complimentary Coors, delectable hors d’oeuvres, and the exclusive opportunity to mingle with this year’s inductees and legendary former honorees. All inductees, past and present, receive a complimentary ticket to the Friday night event. Don't miss your chance to celebrate rodeo greatness. We look forward to seeing you there!" Contact the Idaho Rodeo Hall of Fame for tickets to Friday nights event.

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© 2023 by Idaho Rodeo Hall of Fame

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