Wolf Point “Wild Horse” Stampede

Wolf Point’s famous “Wild Horse” Stampede, referred to also as the “granddaddy” of Montana rodeo has been held the second weekend in July since 1915, making it Montana’s oldest rodeo. Professional rodeo cowboys say it’s the best, and consistently, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association ranks it number one in cowboy winnings, rodeo stock, hospitality and organization. It’s the Montana rodeo other seeks to emulate.

The Wild Horse Stampede offers a glimpse of unadulterated eastern Montana life. There’s no glitz. Just honest-to-goodness fun based upon decades- old traditions: Rodeos—Noon Parades—Street Dances—Carnival—School and Family Reunions.

At Wolf Point’s Marvin Brookman Stadium (named for the late Marvin Brookman, who for many years was a local. legendary rodeo stockman), you’ll see world-class steer roping and bronc riding alongside raucous wild horse race reminiscent of the Stampede’s origins. As fearless local individuals saddle and ride wild broncs, one senses the excitement that was present that hot July afternoon in 1915 when restless cowhands rode wild broncs down Main Street, seeking a midsummer reprieve. Night rodeos end as a huge, orange prairie moon hangs in the dusty purple sky above the Missouri River cottonwoods.

You’ll enjoy Wolf Point in its finest hour as you feast on Catholic burgers (another Stampede ritual served by the local Catholic parish and a few Lutherans), watch the parades, kick up your heels at the street dance, and ”Yee-Haw!” at the cowboy’s choice of Montana rodeos.