Kodiak Rodeo and State Fair
During the 1967-1968 winter, the Kodiak Jaycees began discussing ideas for a new club project. Two members proposed a Rodeo. Most members thought it was a great idea and a fine opportunity for the community youth. The first rodeo was held on the site of the old experimental dairy farm at Kalsin Bay. The remains of an old corral and a few pens have been there since 1941 on the site, but little else. After some hard work and all the money budgeted spent, the Jaycees were ready to put on their first rodeo. The local Ranchers furnished the Rodeo stock, and a massive BBQ was planned for over 500 expected spectators and contestants. The Kodiak Rodeo and State Fair indeed have changed since the first rodeo in 1968 but continue to grow and feature more fun attractions.
Kodiak Rodeo and Fairgrounds is a nonprofit organization committed to providing means for establishing a Kodiak State Fair, displaying local livestock, continuing the Kodiak Jaycee Rodeo, and providing public entertainment. The Kodiak and State Farm is held on Labor Day Weekend and promises fun, excitement, joy, and even hilarity from the rodeo clowns. This event is one of the highlights from Kodiak, Alaska, and indeed an event you won’t want to miss.
The rodeo features all traditional events, from bull riding to calf roping. It also features a horse show so you can enjoy riders displaying their techniques and a cow milking contest where competitors have to chase down and milk their cows. People who are used to rodeos can enjoy Jodiak’s new take on some events, like dirt bike barrel racing.
You can watch future rodeo stars in one of their first competitions at this event as the little ones participate in age-group events like barrel racing on ponies or mutton busting. You can enjoy some trick roping and laugh along the barrel clown’s funny shows between main events.
Sure, you’ll find this event a great state fair, with all its contests (including a delicious baking contest) and family fun games. But the rodeo is the highlight of this event; it gives a taste of Alaska-style and Wild West bull riding and horse show.