Palm Springs, CA

The Palm Springs Hot Rodeo is set to return in 2025 for a highly anticipated weekend of rodeo events, parties, and LGBTQ+ community celebration. After a one-year hiatus, the event will commemorate a historic milestone—the 50th anniversary of the Gay Rodeo Association. This year’s festivities promise to be bigger and better than ever, showcasing both the strength of tradition and the vibrancy of modern LGBTQ+ culture.

The 2025 Palm Springs Hot Rodeo will feature a groundbreaking all-women-led rodeo, marking a major step in diversifying the rodeo experience. This first-of-its-kind event highlights the power and talent of women in a traditionally male-dominated sport, providing a platform for diverse voices within the community. The weekend will kick off with “Cowgirl’s Night,” a new addition to the event lineup that is sure to set the tone for an energetic weekend.

Local dance troupe, The Barebacks, will also be partnering with the event for the return of the popular dance contest, where participants will compete for a coveted rodeo buckle. The dance contest is one of several exciting activities designed to celebrate the community spirit that defines the Palm Springs Hot Rodeo.

Pictured: First rodeo flyer’s for Gay Rodeo

Eri Nox, the Chapter President of the Palm Springs Rodeo, shared insight into the significance of this year’s event. “This year marks a pivotal moment for our rodeo as we celebrate 50 years of Gay Rodeo in the face of numerous challenges—especially in terms of fundraising since the pandemic,” said Nox. “We’ve had to get creative and adapt, but we’re more committed than ever to creating an event that’s inclusive, exciting, and relevant to a new generation of rodeo fans.”

Nox emphasized the importance of animal safety at the event, ensuring that all competitors, both human and animal, are treated with respect. “We welcome everyone—whether you’re a seasoned rodeo competitor, a longtime supporter, or new to the world of rodeo—to join us in this historic celebration,” Nox added.

The weekend will be filled with exciting events, including traditional IGRA-sanctioned rodeo competitions, such as bull riding, barrel racing, and for the first time, Ranch Saddle Bronc Riding. Competitors from across the country will showcase their skills in front of a passionate audience, creating an atmosphere of fierce competition and camaraderie.

For those looking to make the most of the experience, the host hotel for the weekend is Motel 6 Downtown Palm Springs, offering discounted rates for attendees. Rooms can be reserved by calling the hotel directly or booking online with a special group code.

The full schedule of events includes a dance contest, pool parties, welcome parties, rodeo competitions at Dysart Equestrian Park in Banning, CA, and a starry evening at Oscar’s. The weekend will conclude with an awards ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the competitors and the success of the event.

The 2025 Palm Springs Hot Rodeo promises to be a weekend of celebration, inclusivity, and unbridled fun. Whether you are a rodeo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the event is set to offer something for everyone and will be a significant moment in the history of the LGBTQ+ rodeo community.

Horse Check-in and Stall Fees

• Thursday, May 1, 2025 | Noon – 9:00 pm
• Friday, May 2, 2025 | 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

Contestant Registration will be held at the The Tool Shed (600 E Sunny Dunes Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92264)

• Friday, May 2, 2025  – 5PM – 7PM

For more information on the event, click here.