Know Before You Go
Plan Your Visit
Come Ready to Rodeo
First things first. Thank you for choosing to rodeo with us! Whether this is your first Tucson Rodeo, or you’ve been coming since you were knee-high to a grasshopper, we’re so glad to have you!
We want you to have a great day from the moment you pull into the grounds, until the final bull bucks, so we’ve rounded up everything you need to know before you head our way.
Here’s a Few Things Worth Knowing
Before You Leave Home
Check the Weather
We rodeo rain or shine. February in Tucson can mean sunshine, chilly mornings, wind, clouds, or even a heat wave with 100 degree temps. Because we are an outdoor event, we highly recommend checking the forecast and dressing so you’ll be comfortable for a few hours outside.
Please Note: All performances take place rain or shine. Ticket prices are final and refunds are not issued due to weather,
Don’t Skip on the Sunscreen
We know it’s February, but the sun in our part of the world is the real deal. Unless you purchased tickets in our VIP areas, you will be in direct sunlight for several hours. Sunscreen, glasses, and a nice cowboy hat can make your afternoon a whole lot more comfortable.
Come Early
The Pro Rodeo starts at 2:00PM, but the Tucson Rodeo starts long before that.
- 10:00AM: Gates Open
- 12:00PM: Mutton’ Bustin’
- 12:30PM: Junior Rodeo
- 2:00PM: Pro Rodeo
- ~4:30PM: Pro Rodeo Concludes
- After the Final Bull Bucks:
Coors Barn Dance (21+)
There’s more to see
We recommend giving yourself plenty of time to park, get through security, find your seats, grab something to eat, visit our vendors, and explore the grounds.
Before You Hit the Gate
Parking, bags, drinks, and more, sorted so you can find your answer and get back to rodeoing.
Getting Here
Where do I park?
Follow the event signage and the Tucson Rodeo parking crew when you arrive. Lots fill based on availability, so your spot may vary depending on when you show up.
When should I arrive?
Earlier than you think. Traffic builds around the grounds before the Pro Rodeo, and you’ll still need time to park, walk to an entrance, get through security, and find your seats. Don’t wait until 1:45 PM to start hunting for a spot.
How do I avoid the rush after the rodeo?
Stay for the Coors Barn Dance (21+). It starts right after the final bull bucks each performance day, so you can grab a drink and kick up your boots while everyone else sits in traffic.
Drinks & 21+
How do I buy alcohol?
You’ll need an issued wristband before you can purchase, so bring your ID. We accept:
- Driver’s license or state-issued ID
- Canadian driver’s license or ID
- Passport or passport card
- Military ID
- Permanent Resident Card
What are the drink rules?
- Guests without a wristband won’t be served.
- Two-drink limit per transaction at concession stands.
- We can refuse or stop service to anyone who appears intoxicated.
- Providing alcohol to a minor can mean ejection, and possibly arrest.
Can I take my drink to the parking lot?
No. Alcohol can’t be consumed in the parking lot, and all drinks must be finished and disposed of before you leave Tucson Rodeo property.
Bags & Security
What bags are allowed?
- Clear plastic or vinyl bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- Clear one-gallon zip-top freezer bags
- Small clutch purses, about 5″ x 7″ or smaller (subject to search)
- Diaper bags (subject to inspection)
What about medically necessary items?
Exceptions are made after proper inspection, including medical tanks, diabetes kits, allergy pens, and other necessary equipment.
The fastest way through the gate?
Leave the big bag at home. All four public entrances have security staff to keep things moving, but a small bag gets you in the fastest.
Animals
Can I bring my dog?
We ask that you leave your own four-legged friends at home. Non-rodeo animals aren’t permitted, with the exception of qualifying service animals.
Are emotional support animals allowed?
Emotional support, comfort, and companion animals that don’t meet the legal definition of a service animal aren’t permitted.
Prohibited Items
What can't I bring in?
Weapons or dangerous objects of any kind
Drones, laser pointers, and laser pens
Air horns, cowbells, horns, and other noisemakers
Balloons
Umbrellas
Tripods, monopods, and single-purpose video cameras
Anything Tucson Rodeo management deems dangerous or disruptive
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
No. Outside food and beverages (including alcohol), coolers, thermoses, ice chests, and glass bottles or cans stay home. Medically necessary food and beverages are allowed after inspection.
Can I bring a seat cushion?
Yes, if it’s approved. Cushions can’t be wider than 18 inches and can’t have pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers.
Photos & Video
Can I take pictures and video?
Absolutely. Just be respectful: don’t block another fan’s view, and don’t sit in a seat you haven’t purchased.
Can I use my photos commercially?
Photos and videos are for private, personal, non-commercial use only. Commercial photography or distribution, fundraising use, and issue-advocacy use require prior written permission from the Tucson Rodeo and/or the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, as applicable.
Do camera bags count as bags?
Yes. Camera bags follow the same bag policy as everything else, so check the list above.
