1st State Stampede: Delaware's Premier Rodeo Experience Comes to Harrington
The thunder of hooves, the roar of the crowd, and the rich traditions of the American West are coming to the First State.
A New Tradition Begins
Mark your calendars, rodeo fans! The inaugural 1st State Stampede is set to buck into Harrington, Delaware on May 30, 2025, bringing world-class Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) action to the heart of the First State. This one-day spectacular at the renowned Quillen Arena promises to deliver all the grit, glory, and edge-of-your-seat excitement that makes rodeo one of America's most beloved sporting traditions.
As the sun sets over the Delaware State Fairgrounds on that final Friday in May, the arena will transform into a showcase of athletic excellence, featuring top competitors from across the nation vying for their share of an $8,000 purse. The 1st State Stampede isn't just a competition—it's the birth of a new Delaware tradition that celebrates our country's western heritage while bringing communities together for an unforgettable evening.
World-Class Competition Comes to Delaware
The 1st State Stampede will feature a full slate of PRCA-sanctioned events, bringing the very best in rodeo competition to Harrington. Fans will witness the raw power and precision that defines professional rodeo across seven thrilling events:
Bull Riding – Often called the "most dangerous eight seconds in sports," bull riding will have spectators holding their breath as cowboys attempt to stay mounted on nearly one ton of bucking, twisting bovine dynamite. When the gate swings open, there's no telling what might happen in this crowd-favorite event.
Barrel Racing – Watch in awe as skilled horsewomen and their equine partners navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels at breakneck speeds. In a competition where victory and defeat are measured in hundredths of a second, every turn must be perfect.
Steer Wrestling – Also known as "bulldogging," this event showcases incredible timing and strength as cowboys leap from horseback onto a running steer, using nothing but skill and determination to bring the animal to a halt.
Team Roping – The only true team event in rodeo, where precision and partnership are paramount. The header and heeler must work in perfect harmony to rope a steer's horns and hind legs in the shortest possible time.
Saddle Bronc Riding – Often called rodeo's classic event, saddle bronc riding evolved directly from the task of breaking wild horses for ranch work. Today's competitors combine strength, balance, and grace in what many consider the most technically challenging rodeo discipline.
Bareback Riding – Perhaps the most physically demanding event in rodeo, bareback riders must maintain control with just one hand gripping a rigging while their bodies are violently jerked in every direction atop a bucking horse.
Mutton Bustin' – The littlest cowboys and cowgirls get their chance to shine as they climb aboard sheep and hold on tight in this adorable crowd-pleaser designed especially for children.
Between the competitive events, spectators will be treated to the antics of professional rodeo clowns who bring both comic relief and an essential safety element to the arena. These talented entertainers serve as both performers and bullfighters, distracting angry bulls when riders dismount and keeping everyone safe while delivering family-friendly humor throughout the evening.
The Perfect Venue
The Delaware State Fairgrounds' Quillen Arena provides the ideal setting for the 1st State Stampede. This premier equestrian facility offers excellent sightlines from every seat, ensuring that fans won't miss a moment of the action. The covered arena means the event will proceed rain or shine, while the comfortable seating and modern amenities guarantee a pleasant experience for rodeo enthusiasts of all ages.
Located in the heart of Harrington, the venue is easily accessible from throughout Delaware and neighboring states. Ample parking will be available on the fairgrounds, with designated accessible parking spaces for those who need them. The arena's design ensures accessibility for all fans, with wheelchair seating options and accommodations for those with special needs.
More Than Just a Rodeo
While the competition in the arena forms the heart of the 1st State Stampede, the event offers far more than just rodeo action. Arrive early to experience the full flavor of this western celebration! Gates will open at 5:00 PM, giving attendees plenty of time to explore everything the event has to offer before the main competition begins at 7:00 PM.
The concourse surrounding the arena will feature a variety of food vendors serving up delicious offerings from classic fair favorites to regional specialties. Whether you're craving a juicy burger, fresh-cut fries, funnel cake, or something more adventurous, the diverse food options will satisfy every appetite.
Thirsty? Refreshment stands will offer everything from ice-cold sodas and lemonade to adult beverages for those 21 and over. The 1st State Stampede aims to create a complete entertainment experience where the food and drinks are as memorable as the competition itself.
Merchandise booths will give fans the opportunity to take home a piece of the inaugural event, with official 1st State Stampede gear including t-shirts, hats, programs, and more. Additionally, western wear vendors will offer authentic cowboy hats, boots, belts, and jewelry for those looking to embrace their inner cowboy or cowgirl.
Community Spirit
The 1st State Stampede isn't just bringing rodeo to Delaware—it's bringing communities together. This inaugural event has already garnered tremendous support from local businesses and organizations throughout the state who recognize the value of celebrating western heritage while creating new economic opportunities.
Local sponsors will have a significant presence at the event, showcasing the strong partnership between the rodeo and the Delaware business community. Their support helps make this world-class sporting event possible while strengthening community bonds.
The 1st State Stampede is also committed to giving back. Portions of the proceeds will benefit local charities, ensuring that the impact of this one-day event extends far beyond the arena walls. Additionally, the event will create opportunities for local volunteers to participate in bringing this exciting new tradition to life.
Secure Your Spot at the Inaugural Event
With the 1st State Stampede expected to draw rodeo fans from across Delaware and beyond, securing tickets early is highly recommended. Tickets will go on sale March 30, 2025—two months before the event—and will be available for purchase directly through this website.
Several ticket options will be available to accommodate different preferences and budgets:
- General Admission seating for adults
- Child Tickets for young rodeo fans
- Senior Tickets offering discounts for older attendees
- VIP Packages that include premium seating and exclusive perks
- Group Discounts for parties of 10 or more
Accessibility seating will also be available to ensure that all fans can enjoy the excitement of live rodeo action. The event organizers are committed to making the 1st State Stampede accessible to everyone.
Tickets will be available through multiple convenient delivery methods, including print-at-home options, mobile tickets delivered directly to your smartphone, and will-call pickup at the venue. A clear refund and exchange policy will be published when tickets go on sale.
A New Chapter in Delaware's Sporting Tradition
The 1st State Stampede represents an exciting new chapter in Delaware's sporting landscape. As the First State embraces the traditions of the American West, this PRCA-sanctioned event promises to deliver not just world-class competition, but also a celebration of values that resonate deeply with Delawareans: hard work, determination, community, and the pioneering spirit.
For competitors, the event offers a chance to earn crucial points toward PRCA circuit standings and potentially qualify for larger rodeo competitions. For fans, it's an opportunity to witness the skill, courage, and showmanship that have made rodeo a beloved American tradition for generations.
The 1st State Stampede isn't just a one-time event—it's the beginning of what organizers hope will become a cherished annual tradition in Delaware. By bringing together top athletes, enthusiastic fans, local businesses, and community organizations, this inaugural rodeo aims to plant roots that will grow deeper with each passing year.
When the chutes open on May 30, 2025, at Quillen Arena, Delaware will join the proud tradition of states that celebrate rodeo as both sport and cultural heritage. Don't miss your chance to say "I was there when it all began" at the inaugural 1st State Stampede!
The 1st State Stampede: Where Delaware meets the West. May 30, 2025, at Quillen Arena in Harrington. Tickets on sale March 30, 2025.