You're incredibly excited! Soon, you'll attend your first-ever rodeo. You've always been a fan of barrel racing and bull riding, and you're excited to see it all play out in person rather than from a TV screen.

But admittedly, since it's your first time at a rodeo, you're also a bit nervous. How do you prepare? Do you need to wear special clothing? What do you bring? Here are some tips for getting ready!

Dress the part

A big part of the rodeo experience is the Western fashion. You don't have to show up in a full cowboy getup, but a little Western flair can add to the fun.

Start with comfortable jeans. Pair them with a plaid shirt, a simple tee, or a stylish blouse. For footwear, you’ll want something that’s easy on the feet and closed-toe since you’ll be doing a lot of walking. And what about the accessories? Popular options include bandanas, belt buckles, and bolo ties. And of course, the classic cowboy hat! If you're buying your first cowboy hat for the event, some things you should look for in a high-quality hat are a proper fit and durable material.

Pack lightly

You'll want to have a few items on hand to stay comfortable throughout the day, the most important of which being a small bag to hold your phone, wallet, and keys. You may also want to pack a bottle of sunscreen in your bag if the arena is outdoors and the weather is sunny. You don't want to remember your first rodeo by the sunburn you got there! Some people also bring a portable phone charger with them so they don't miss a moment of the action.

Know the schedule

Rodeos feature a wide variety of events, from roping competitions to bronc riding. Most events post a schedule online beforehand. You can check this schedule to see which events you want to watch and plan your day accordingly. It helps you catch all the must-see moments without feeling rushed.

Bring cash

While many vendors at modern rodeos accept cards, some smaller stalls for food, drinks, or souvenirs might be cash-only. Consider bringing some cash with you—even if it's just a small amount—to be safe. This prevents any disappointment when you spot the perfect souvenir or need a quick snack.

Arrive early

Getting to the venue ahead of time gives you a chance to find parking, locate your seats, and get a feel for the layout. You can also explore the grounds, grab some food, and soak in the atmosphere before the main events begin. An early arrival helps you settle in and enjoy the full experience without any stress.

Have fun!

If you're a first-time rodeo-goer, here's how to prepare! Really, all you need to do is dress comfortably, arrive with a plan, and most importantly, have fun! We hope you enjoy your first rodeo experience!