BURWELL, Neb. (KOLN) – Nebraska’s Big Rodeo is returning to Burwell July 22-25, bringing four days of PRCA competition, celebrity appearances, and community events to town.
The rodeo dates to 1921, when a group of local founders — including an ancestor of current board president Jess Helgoth — established the event.
“The rodeo here in Burwell started in 1921,” Helgoth said. “It’s been happening in Burwell, Nebraska ever since then.”
This year’s schedule opens Wednesday, July 22, with the first-ever Larry the Cable Guy Get Her Done PRCA Extreme Bulls, featuring rank 45 bull riders from among the top 100 in the PRCA division. Wednesday night’s program also includes the Dinner Bell Derby, Wild Horse Race, Chuck Wagon Races, a clown performance, and a BMX motorcycle show following the bull riding.
We’re told Larry the Cable Guy will be on-site Wednesday night.
Thursday through Saturday, the event continues with regular PRCA rodeo competition, along with the same added events. Bands will perform in the beer garden Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. BMX motorcycle riders will also perform each night following the rodeo.
The fairgrounds feature a new grandstand facility, replacing the original structure that was lost to storms. The original entry arch remains standing on the grounds.
The week also includes the Garfield County Fair, with livestock shows throughout. A parade is scheduled for Saturday morning. Nebraska volleyball Olympian Jordan Larson will serve as grand marshal and is expected to be present Friday and Saturday nights.
Helgoth said the annual event draws approximately 18,000 visitors to Burwell each year.
“It just means a lot to Burwell, and it means a lot to the surrounding area as well,” Helgoth said.
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