Tucson's La Fiesta de los Vaqueros, established in 1925, marked the city's frontier spirit amidst Prohibition. Arizona State Prohibition Director Frank Pool led a pre-rodeo cleanup, capturing 25 stills and destroying 3000 gallons of moonshine. The inaugural event, conceptualized by Leighton Kramer, aimed to showcase Tucson's Wild West allure and attract winter visitors.

The rodeo's early days saw creative prizes like a 750-lb. block of ice and a "Big Cactus" ham. Kramer's vision of reviving the Old Frontier spirit was realized as locals and tourists alike enjoyed the rodeo parade and dance. The event's success led to its expansion, with Hollywood even using the Tucson Rodeo as a backdrop for films. Today, the Tucson Rodeo stands as one of North America's top professional rodeo events, with the Tucson Rodeo Committee honored for its contributions to the sport.