2026 Gallup Rodeos

Above, bull riding during the 2025 Gallup Lions Club Rodeo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Here's the rodeos that will take place at Red Rock Park near Gallup, New Mexico this year:

76th Annual Gallup Lions Club Rodeo & BBQ

Dates: June 18–20, 2026 

Highlights: Youth rodeo (June 18), Open show rodeos (June 19–20), and a downtown BBQ celebration

11th Annual Best of the Best Timed Event Rodeo

Dates: June 23–27, 2026 

Highlights: High-stakes team roping, $3,000 added per event, and exclusive prizes for winners

WildThing Championship Bullriding

Dates: Typically hosted in July (Mid-summer)

Highlights: One of the premier bull-riding events in the Southwest, featuring elite riders and the Wooly Riders youth division

Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial

Dates: August 1–9, 2026

Highlights: Daily rodeo events begin August 6 

Gallup Lions Club Rodeo June 18 - 20

Above, a past Gallup Lions Club Rodeo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This month marks the beginning of rodeo season in the Gallup, New Mexico area.

The first rodeo of the season is the Gallup Lions Club Rodeo that will be held this year at Red Rock Park Rodeo Arena.

The rodeo dates are June 18 through June 20.

It is a great rodeo and I haven't missed it since I moved to New Mexico.

For more information, go here. 

11 Of The Best Affordable Towns To Retire In New Mexico

Above, the Balloon Rally at Red Rock Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

My decision to move to the Gallup, New Mexico area was made after I drove through it in late 2016. I came back a year later and met with a realtor. 

I bought the third home he took me to. I have not regretted the move. The property is 18 miles east of downtown Gallup. Besides the beauty of the area, the food is great!

World Atlas has posted an article on 11 of the most affordable towns to retire in New Mexico. Gallup is one of them.  

They begin with:

The arid, high-desert paradise of New Mexico isn't called the Land of Enchantment for nothing. This peaceful southwest state offers scenic views, rich cultural experiences, and incredible food. Every October, it also hosts the International Balloon Fiesta, which attracts nearly 1 million visitors from around the world every year.

New Mexico is certainly an underrated state, especially when it comes to affordability. According to Zillow, the state's average home value is $307,000, making it one of the most affordable states.

The state is also beautiful. Northern New Mexico has green, mountainous terrain that receives heavy snowfall each winter. The southern part of the state, though, is a vast desert, and sees summer temperatures climb into the triple digits. No matter the climate retirees choose, with top towns like Farmington, Gallup, Silver City, and Las Vegas, New Mexico offers many affordable towns worth considering for retirement.

To read more, go here. 

Successful Winter RV Camping Trips

Above, following a snowstorm at Red Rock Park's campground. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Besides living m my RV while waiting for the movers to bring my belongings to the new (to me) home in New Mexico, I did one other stint of winter camping.

That was in 2018 at Red Rock Park's campground during the annual balloon festival held in December. It snowed overnight while I was there, but with full hook-ups, I was snug as a bug in the RV. Needless to say, the hot-air balloons didn't launch.

RV Travel posted an article on having a successful winter camping trip.

They begin it with:

Successful winter camping? Yes! It’s easy to enjoy the solitude and beauty of winter camping—you just have to know how to do it safely.

The end of the season when it’s time to pack up the RV, winterize it, and put it in storage has always been a rather sad time. That is, until I was able to convince my husband that we could still RV—we just needed to do a little more prep and do without some of the fancy luxuries that an RV provides.

Let me tell you one thing about winter camping: There is no campground crowding! While the majority of private campgrounds close down in the winter, a lot of state and regional parks keep campgrounds open. They even plow a few select sites and have power on.

To read more, go here. 

Easy Winter RV Camping Tips

Above, winter camping at Red Rock Park Campground in 2018. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the years, there's one thing that I have rarely done with my RV: winter camping.

When I first moved to New Mexico, I lived in my motorhome that was parked in my driveway for about 11 days while waiting for the movers to bring my belongings. During this, it occasionally snowed.

The next time I did so was when I camped at Red Rock Park Campground near Gallup for the annual hot-air balloon festival. Well, due to snow overnight, the balloon launch was cancelled, but at least I was warm inside my RV.

RV Travel has posted an article of tips for easy winter camping.

To read what they are, go here.

Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial

Above, a tee pee set up near the exhibit hall's entrance. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yesterday morning, I attended the 2025 Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial at Red Rock Park.

First, I went to the rodeo arena to watch women's barrel racing and, later, the calf take-down event. It was sunny and hot, so I limited myself to about an hour and a half out in the sun. 

Above, yours truly at the rodeo arena. 

Afterwards, I went inside the events center to view the art show. I was surprised that it was limited to just one large room (ballroom-sized) with no exhibits in smaller rooms. There was also very few rug displays that were a highlight in past years. It was mainly paintings, pottery, kachina dolls and jewelry.

The artwork ranged from kids art to adults. One painting was with a Godzilla theme called "Cheiizilla". In Navajo language, here is what cheii means:

In the Navajo (Diné) language, "Cheii" (pronounced "ch-ee-ee") translates to "grandfather" or "maternal grandfather". It specifically refers to the mother's father, according to Navajo tradition. The term is also used to refer to the horned toad, which is considered a spiritual grandfather figure in Navajo culture. 

A photo of the painting is below. 

Outside, there were some vendors, mainly food and drinks. There were very few vendors selling Native American goods. That was a disappointment. 

Anyway, it was good to get out and wander the Ceremonial. It goes on to August 10.

Some photos:

 

Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Starts Today

Above, at the 2018 Ceremonial. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One of the annual events taking place in the Gallup, New Mexico area is the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial. I have attended every one (except during the pandemic) since I moved to New Mexico seven years ago. This year's Ceremonial starts today.

Above, pottery, rugs and artwork on display. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

What is the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial?

According to New Mexico Magazine:

Gallup gleams during its annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial, which has been happening for more than 100 years with Indigenous attendees from around the country. This year, it takes place August 1–10, featuring processions, powwows, parades, rodeo events, the Ceremonial Queen Pageant, arts and crafts, performances, and traditional dances that showcase the breadth and beauty of Indigenous culture in America. Most of the offerings take place at the under the rusty sandstone cliffs of Red Rock Park just outside of town, but some are in Gallup too. Find a complete schedule on the event’s website.

Above, from the 2019 Ceremonial rodeo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Generally, I attend the Ceremonial's rodeo and take in the art shows and check out what the vendors of various tribes have to offer. It is very enjoyable. 

Above, artist Richard Yazzie (a Jamestown resident) poses with his artwork. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For more information, go here. 

2025 Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Schedule

Happy Independence Day!

 

Bull Rider Wade Tuni Is The Biggest Winner At Gallup Rodeo

Above, Wade Tuni's winning ride. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

At last Saturday night's Gallup Lions Club Rodeo, I lucked out and photographed the winning ride of bull rider Wade Tuni.

Above, another shot of Wade Tuni's winning ride. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Navajo Times reported that Tuni took home prize money totalling $4,440.

They reported:

CHURCH ROCK, N.M.

The annual Gallup Lions Club Rodeo never disappoints as cowboys and cowgirls compete for a shipload of cash.

The biggest winner to emerge from the 75th edition was Wade Tuni as he collected a whopping $4,440, which included ground money.

Of the 36 entries, Tuni was the only one to cover his bull as he rode 100X for 82 points in Saturday night’s performance.

“I was the first one out and it was a pretty nice one,” Tuni said of his draw. “He was a pretty good bull to start off with. I just came out with a bang, so it came out pretty good.”

To read more, go here. 

2025 Gallup Lions Club Rodeo

Rodeo season has opened in Gallup, New Mexico. I attended the rodeo last evening at Red Rock Park Rodeo Arena. It is the 75th year Diamond Jubilee rodeo.

As I've mentioned several times, this is my favorite time of the year in New Mexico. The rodeo last night also included a dance and fireworks. I didn't stay for them. But I did enjoy several events that took place.

The rodeo started at 7:00 last night. 

Rodeo season here continues next weekend when the Best of the Best Rodeo featuring contestants from junior high and high schools takes place at the same venue.

Naturally, I took many pictures. 

Here's some of them:

Rodeo Season Starts Today

Rodeo season is kicking off with this weekend's Lions Club Rodeo at Red Rock Park. 

Next weekend, the Best of the Best Rodeo, also at Red Rock Park, will be taking place.

From Rodeoticket:

Join us in Gallup, New Mexico at Red Rock Park from Wednesday, June 21, through Saturday, June 24, 2023, as America’s top junior high and high school rodeo athletes compete for big cash payouts and prizes. The Best of the Best Timed Event Rodeo offers eight timed events, including barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping, tie-down roping, team roping, and steer wrestling. In addition, there will be a special parent-contestant team roping and ribbon roping competition.

The contestants are from junior high and high schools. Don't let that dissuade you from attending. They put on a great show!

This is the time of the year that I really enjoy living in New Mexico.

For more information, go here. 

Gallup Lions Club Rodeo 2025

Rodeo season is almost upon us in the Gallup, New Mexico area.

The first rodeo will be the Gallup Lions Club Rodeo at Red Rock Park Rodeo Arena on June 12, 13 and 14. 

There will also be a downtown celebration on Saturday, June 7 featuring a parade, bar-b-que, battle of the bands and rodeo legends autograph signings.

Here's the official poster:

For more information, go here.

2025 Gallup Rodeos

Rodeo season is almost upon us in the Gallup, New Mexico area. This is my favorite times of the year in New Mexico.

So far, these are the rodeos scheduled:

The Gallup Lions Club Youth and Open Show Rodeo, a historic event with rough stock and timed events, is scheduled for June 12-14, 2025, and the Best of the Best Rodeo, featuring junior and high school athletes, will be held from June 21-24, 2025. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Gallup Lions Club Youth and Open Show Rodeo:

• Dates: June 12-14, 2025
• Features: Rough stock and timed events, wooly and steer riding
• Stock Contractor: Casper Baca Rodeo Company
• Youth Rodeo Start Time: 5:00 PM on Thursday, June 12th
• Open Show Rodeo Start Time: 7:00 PM on Friday, June 13th
• Morning Slack: 9:00 AM on Saturday, June 14th
• Saturday Open Show Rodeo Start Time: 7:00 PM 

Best of the Best Rodeo:

• Dates: June 21-24, 2025 
• Location: Red Rock Park in Gallup, New Mexico 
• Participants: America's top junior high and high school rodeo athletes 
• Events: Eight timed events, including barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping, tie-down roping, team roping, and steer wrestling 
• Special Competitions: Parent-contestant team roping and ribbon roping 




• Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial August 1 - 10, 2025 (rodeo schedule not available)







• 

43rd RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY

Above, the 2019 Red Rock Balloon Rally. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Red Rock Balloon Rally is just two weeks away at Red Rock Park near Gallup.

I've attended twice. The first time was six years ago, but an overnight snowstorm prevented the ascension of the balloons. I camped next to the ascension area. The next year, the balloons had their ascensions. It was nice and sunny out, but the outside temperature was in the 20s. I was warmly dressed, but the cold air played havoc on my digital camera.

Above, the ascension area in 2019. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

From the official website:

 December 6th-8th, 2024

Get ready for the 43rd Annual Red Rock Balloon Rally, happening December 6-8, 2024! What started as a passionate initiative by four enthusiasts to showcase the thrilling flying conditions amid the stunning red rock formations east of Gallup, New Mexico, has now evolved into one of the nation’s largest balloon events. Join us and experience the awe-inspiring sight of over 150 balloons taking to the skies!

The Red Rock Balloon Rally Association, established in 1981, has been a pillar of support for the Gallup community. Through collaborations with numerous non-profit organizations, the Association has contributed tens of thousands of dollars to fundraising efforts. Operated entirely by a dedicated volunteer committee without any paid staff, the Association’s commitment to community service is truly remarkable.

Interested in being on a crew? Sign up here!

ADMISSION IS FREE TO ALL EVENTS!

(with only a small $10.00 parking fee at events at Red Rock Park)

To read more, go here. 

Happy Veterans Day

Today is Veterans Day in which we remember and thank them for their service.

RVs and Hot-Air Balloon Festivals

Above, the Red Rock Balloon Rally near Gallup, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who like to travel in their RVs and experience different events, RV Life has posted an article on hot-air balloon festivals that people can attend with their recreational vehicles.

In New Mexico, the two most prominent ones are the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival and the Red Rock Balloon Rally (near Gallup). I have attended the Red Rock Balloon Rally twice as it is only ten miles away (as the crow flies) from home. The ascension area is right next to a campground with hook-ups.

There are others that merit a visit and RV Life has listed the 10 most amazing ones.

They begin with:

At this point, our family has visited a lot of places and attended a lot of events. One of our favorite things we’ve ever visited as full-time RVers? The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta! This event is absolutely magical and we will never forget the feeling of waking up to hot-air balloons flying directly overhead during this most amazing of hot-air balloon festivals.

We loved this experience so much that I have started making a list of balloon festivals to attend around the country. Here are my top picks as of right now. They are listed in chronological order through the next calendar year, so plan your ultimate balloon festival trip with RV Trip Wizard today! 

To read more, go here. 

Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Rodeo

Above, a contestant in the women's breakaway event. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Last night, Mitch Geriminsky and I attended the Gallup Inter-Tribal Ceremonial Rodeo at Red Rock Park near Gallup.

It looked as though it would rain, but it didn't. This was probably why there was a sparse crowd.

Above, Mitch and I at the rodeo.

The rodeo started a little late as they organizers were waiting for color guards with the flags. They never showed up. But they did play the national anthem.  

Those who did attend seemed to have a good time.

Why Rodeos Are Still Popular

Above, bull-riding at the 2021 Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

With many sports going "woke", such as football, baseball and others, there is one sport that prides itself as being patriotic without any hesitation: rodeos.

According to an article in Sentient Media, while circuses and marine parks are declining, rodeos are more popular than ever.  

They begin with:

Today, rodeos big and small draw crowds across North America. Spectators looking to indulge in cowboy culture gather to watch man versus beast in a display of traditional ranching skills and techniques. Whether it’s a small town gathering, a massive event for millions or a traveling show not unlike the circus or professional wrestling, rodeos have evolved over time into a popular spectacle.

But the trend is not without controversy.

As a matter of fact, the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial opens this week and it includes a rodeo. A friend and I are attending the rodeo this coming Saturday evening. 

To read more, go here.

2024 Gallup Lions Club Rodeo

Last evening, I attended the Gallup Lions Club Rodeo at Red Rock Park near Gallup.

It was well attended and the weather was perfect.

Naturally, I took plenty of photos. It was interesting to see young children also bull riding. Well, with smaller bulls.

Here's some of them: