Great Basin Sun
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Wednesday, February 25, 2026
WINNEMUCCA RANCH HAND RODEO REMAINS A GREAT BASIN TRADITION
The 2026 Winnemucca Ranch Hand Rodeo Weekend is scheduled Feb. 25 through March 1 at the Winnemucca Events Complex
The Ranch Hand Rodeo Weekend in Winnemucca continues to be one of Nevada’s premier western events, drawing visitors and competitors from across the West to celebrate ranching heritage and cowboy culture. Now in its 37th year, the event is again expected to bring energy, competition and community pride to the region.
The 2026 Winnemucca Ranch Hand Rodeo Weekend is scheduled Feb. 25 through March 1 at the Winnemucca Events Complex, with events that spotlight ranching skills and teamwork.
What began decades ago as a friendly challenge among neighbors has grown into a major regional gathering that highlights real ranch work. Teams compete in classic events like steer stopping, wild mugging, trailer loading, team roping, branding and ranch doctoring. This year adds excitement with the Ranch Bronc, expanding the slate of competitive events.
The weekend kicks off with the Winnemucca Cow Dog Trials, where highly trained dogs and their handlers showcase their livestock herding skills. The schedule also includes the Ranch, Rope & Performance Horse Sale, bringing quality ranch and performance horses to auction on Feb. 28.
A highlight of the weekend is the Ranch Hand Invitational Women’s Ranch Rodeo, set for Feb. 27, featuring top women competitors in roping, branding, tie-down roping, trailer loading and combined doctoring events.
Other festivities include the Barrel Bash, a multi-day barrel racing competition held Feb. 27–March 1 alongside the rodeo’s main events.
The event celebrates working ranch culture, offering entertainment for families, ranchers and
visitors alike. Free admission is offered for some early events, with general rodeo admission available throughout the weekend.
For full details on the schedule and ticket information, visit ranchrodeonv.com.
Rodeo
