The Mountain Valley Stampede Rodeo, a premier Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event, returns to the Wasatch County Outdoor Arena this week as part of the annual Wasatch County Fair Days. The rodeo, which features top-tier stock from Powder River and competitors from across the nation, is scheduled to run from July 30 through August 1.
Rodeo Schedule and Entertainment
The rodeo festivities are scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM on Thursday, July 30, following a 7:15 PM pre-show and the singing of the National Anthem at 7:25 PM. Performances will continue through Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, concluding at 10:30 PM each night. According to Wasatch County Parks & Recreation, the event is designed as a family-friendly experience featuring specialty acts, fireworks, and a drone show.
Demolition Derby and Special Events
In addition to the professional rodeo, the fair celebration includes several other high-energy events. The Wasatch County Demolition Derby is a featured attraction, described by organizers as a popular three-night event where cars collide in a display of metal-scraping action. This event is expected to draw significant crowds, as it historically tends to sell out early. Scheduled events for the fair period also include the UHSRA State Finals and the Light Up the Sky Balloon Launch.
Family Activities and Concerts
Family-oriented programming is a central component of the Mountain Valley Stampede. Children can participate in specific activities such as the stick horse race or mutton busting, though the latter requires advance registration. The fair also offers a free concert on Thursday night following the rodeo's conclusion. To accommodate young attendees, children aged four and under can attend for free if they sit on a lap.
Venue and Event Timing
The event is held at the Wasatch County Outdoor Arena located at 415 S. Southfield Rd. in Heber City. Organizers have noted that while the rodeo dates are estimated to fall between July 23 and August 1, 2026, the specific rodeo sessions are set for the final three days of that window. The venue is a primary hub for the local community's summer celebrations, offering various amenities and high-profile livestock for the competitors.
Ticketing and Safety Warnings
Ticket availability for the rodeo and demolition derby typically begins in early June, with sales conducted through the official Wasatch County Parks & Recreation website. Officials have issued warnings to the public regarding ticket scams and third-party resellers, emphasizing that only tickets purchased directly through Wasatch County Parks & Rec will be accepted at the gate. For the demolition derby, interested participants can find schedules and sign-up information through dedicated event websites.
Regional Impact
The Mountain Valley Stampede Rodeo serves as a major regional attraction, bringing together cowboys and cowgirls from across the Intermountain West. By combining professional PRCA competition with community events like the demolition derby and balloon launches, the Wasatch County Fair Days continues to establish itself as a significant summer tradition for the Heber Valley.
