Local & Community

Desert Rodeo Returns to Thermal This Weekend

While country music fans pack the Empire Polo Grounds for Stagecoach, rodeo lovers have their own destination this weekend. Desert Rodeo returns to the Desert International Horse Park in Thermal for its second consecutive year, running Friday through Sunday.

The event is sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and produced by Flying U Rodeo Company, a family operation with 60 years of experience. 

Over three days, competitors will take on eight events, including bull riding, barrel racing, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, team roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, and tie-down roping.

Friday's gates open at 11 a.m., with competition running from 1 to 3:30 p.m. The grounds stay open until around 6 p.m. The event continues through Sunday.

Tickets are still available at DesertRodeo.com

By: NBC Palm Springs

April 24, 2026

NBC Palm SpringsDesert RodeoRodeoEmpire Polo GroundsFlying U Rodeo CompanyDesert International Horse Park
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Desert Rodeo Returns to Thermal This Weekend