101 Wild West Rodeo History

101 Wild West Rodeo – Ponca City, Oklahoma

Since its founding in 1959, the 101 Wild West Rodeo has stood as a proud symbol of Ponca City’s deep-rooted Western heritage, community spirit, and enduring traditions. Inspired by the historic 101 Ranch and its world-famous Wild West Show, the rodeo carries forward a legacy of cowboy culture that spans generations.

Held annually at 23 Darr Park Drive, the rodeo has been the heartbeat of local summer celebrations for over 66 years. What began as a local tradition has grown into one of the most respected and eagerly awaited rodeo events in the region. As a PRCA-sanctioned event, the 101 Wild West Rodeo draws top-tier competitors from across the country to showcase their talents in events like bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and team roping.

Over the decades, the rodeo grounds have undergone significant upgrades while preserving the authentic charm of the original event. Major improvements include a brand-new arena, modern bucking chutes, upgraded “chute heaven” seating, and the replacement of the original 1959 wooden bleachers with new aluminum seating for a safer, more comfortable spectator experience. The arena lighting has also evolved, replacing halogen lights with state-of-the-art LED sports lighting to enhance night-time visibility and presentation.

In addition, the rodeo grounds now feature:

• Premium VIP seating on the north end of the arena

• A new covered contestant hospitality building

• Heated and cooled ticket booths on both sides of the facility

• A secure 8-foot chain link perimeter fence

• A popular concert series after the rodeo each night, adding even more entertainment to the experience

Beyond the upgrades, what makes the 101 Wild West Rodeo truly special is the generational dedication behind it. Countless cowboys, cowgirls, and community members have volunteered their time, energy, and passion over the years. Many families have served on the rodeo board for generations, making it more than an event—it’s a family tradition and a community legacy.

Today, the 101 Wild West Rodeo continues to attract fans and contestants from around the world, celebrating the past while embracing the future. It remains a testament to Ponca City’s pride, perseverance, and enduring love for the cowboy way of life.