Russian River Rodeo Association

Russian River Rodeo Association: 59 Years of Western Heritage, Community, and Rodeo Tradition 

Check them out at: www.russianriverrodeo.com

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Mission Statement: Russian River Rodeo Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the western heritage and small-town way of life of the Russian River community. For nearly six decades, the organization has brought people together through rodeo, youth events, barrel races, and community-focused activities. Based in Duncans Mills, Sonoma County, California, the Russian River Rodeo Association is supported by a dedicated group of volunteers who work hard to continue the tradition of rodeo while creating a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere for visitors and participants. 

The History of Russian River Rodeo Association

The Russian River Rodeo Association is celebrating its 59th annual rodeo this year, continuing a tradition that has been a part of the Russian River community for generations. For over 59 years, the association has produced rodeos along the beautiful Russian River in Sonoma County. What began as a rodeo tradition has grown into an important part of the local community, bringing together thousands of visitors during rodeo weekend while helping preserve the character and heritage of the area. 

The annual rodeo is typically held on the third weekend in June. Although Duncans Mills has a population of just 85 residents, the community swells to thousands of people during rodeo weekend. Beyond the main rodeo, the association continues to provide opportunities for youth riders, competitors, and families throughout the year. Russian River Rodeo offers a variety of events throughout the summer, including monthly Play Days focused on youth riders and local barrel races. One of the association's largest events is “Racing 4 Rhonda,” a weekend barrel race filled with fun activities for participants and families. The event also serves an important purpose within the community by raising funds for the Rhonda Parmeter-Miles Annual Scholarship, which supports local high-school graduates pursuing trade school or college. Through these events, the Russian River Rodeo Association continues to create opportunities for riders while giving back to the local community. 

As the Russian River Rodeo Association looks toward the future, the organization is hard at work improving its rodeo grounds in preparation for its 60th Annual Rodeo in 2027. The association is also placing a greater focus on preserving the historical value of the rodeo within the local community. With so many people holding fond memories of past rodeos and events, the organization is building an archive that will allow those memories and pieces of local history to be shared with the public. With a strong volunteer base, a deep connection to its western roots, and a commitment to future generations, the Russian River Rodeo Association continues working to preserve the traditions that have made its rodeo a special part of the Russian River community for nearly six decades.