Local & Community
Desert Rodeo Rides Into Thermal: A Country Escape Without the Stagecoach Price Tag
Saddle Up for the Desert Rodeo: A Western Weekend in Thermal, CA
If Stagecoach tickets are a little too steep for your wallet this year but you're still craving that classic country energy, there's another way to get your fix—without breaking the bank. Welcome to the Desert Rodeo, a weekend full of cowboy charm, high-stakes rodeo action, and family-friendly fun, all happening in Thermal, California.
When & Where:
This Friday through Sunday, from 11 AM to 5 PM, the rodeo kicks into gear with events, entertainment, and plenty of western flair. The main rodeo show runs daily from 1 PM to 3:30 PM, giving you a front-row seat to all the bucking, barrel racing, and crowd-roaring thrills.
What to Expect:
Parking? Complimentary. Vibes? Immaculate. Whether you're a rodeo regular or a first-timer, you'll be swept up in the excitement, the cheering crowds, and the rich tradition of the sport. The Desert Rodeo has something for everyone:
A Kids' Corral with activities like a mechanical bull and family games
Shopping booths for western wear and local goods
Live music that’ll get your boots tapping
Authentic rodeo action from seasoned pros and rising stars
"I'm a California girl, so this is my jam right here—the rodeo. The cowboy hats, the boots, the music—everything," one local fan shared. “It’s a bit of a hike to get to Thermal, but totally worth it. This is the heart of western culture.”
More Than Just a Show:
At its core, rodeo is about family, community, and heritage. The organizers have poured heart and soul into creating an event that resonates with all generations, blending tradition with modern fun. And with festival season in full swing, the timing couldn’t be better. Already drawing curious crowds from nearby events, the Desert Rodeo is poised to become a staple in the spring calendar.
Plan Your Visit:
Throw on those boots, pack some sunscreen, and head out to Thermal this weekend. Whether you’re there for the thrill of the ride or just to soak in the atmosphere, the Desert Rodeo promises a memorable escape into the heart of the Wild West.
For more info and full event details, visit desertrodeo.com.
By: Thalia Hayden
April 24, 2025
Latest Instagram Posts
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. What’s your favorite NFL team?
A major cleanup is underway after powerful waves damaged 14 beachfront homes near Capistrano Beach in Orange County. Residents are concerned their homes could remain vulnerable without protective measures in place. Crews are clearing debris, while efforts to bring in protective boulders were delayed by high tide. #California #OrangeCounty #CapistranoBeach #CoastalWaves #Beachfront #WeatherNews
Two new Girl Scout cookies are coming in 2027 🍪 Meet Sparkables: a crunchy oatmeal cookie with chocolate chips and colorful sprinkles, developed with Partake in a facility designed to avoid the nine major food allergens. And for the pups: Patch Pals 🐾 Soft-baked, blueberry muffin-flavored dog cookies in four adorable designs. Both will be available online beginning in January. Which one are you most excited to try? #GirlScouts #GirlScoutCookies #NewCookies #DogTreats #FoodAllergyFriendly #CookieSeason
It’s more than just dancing — it’s fitness, confidence and community. A Coachella Valley dance studio is helping adults move their bodies, have fun and step into their power, one class at a time. And during Beyoncé’s birthday week, the energy was turned all the way up. “When in doubt, twerk it out.” See how VXN Worldwide Dance Company is getting the Valley moving — and building confidence along the way. Read more at NBCPalmSprings.com. #CoachellaValley #PalmSprings #Dance #Fitness #Community NBCPalmSprings
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. What are you going to be for Halloween? 🎃
Labor Day traffic is picking up in Palm Springs. If you’re heading out, our Maria Noble Valdez has what you can expect on the roads here. Be sure to stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs and nbcpalmsprings.com for more Labor Day coverage #LaborDay #LaborDayTraffic #PalmSprings #TrafficUpdate #i10
Who makes the NBC Top 3, winner will be announced Sunday night on NBC Palm Springs, with the player who makes the number one spot winning a $250 prize from @hondaofthedesert! Comment below if it will be 1) Cael Woody with the dot under pressure, 2) Tatum Webster with the pass breakup, 3) Ivan Garza with the rushing TD, 4) Sean Meza with the toe tap, or 5) Jesus. Valenzuela with the strong hands #fypage #fridaynightlights #top3 #hondaofthedesert
Me On A Plate is back! We head over to @tacquila_ps to talk to chef David Arreguin about his love of spice, being the seventh of nine children, and his drive to always follow his passion. Check it out now on our website nbcpalmsprings.com
Nearly a year after wildfires tore through Mountain Center, the scars are still visible along the Palms to Pines Highway. Now, fire crews are working to repair those burn areas and reduce the risk of flooding, erosion and mudslides when heavy rain arrives. The work includes fire-line suppression repairs, water bars and other measures designed to slow rainwater and keep burned soil from washing away. CAL FIRE Riverside County Battalion Chief Ryan Lubin says the steep terrain, dry brush and limited access continue to create challenges for mountain communities. With El Niño conditions expected to bring periods of heavy rain, officials say preparing now could help protect homes and communities from the aftermath of wildfire. The message from firefighters: preparation can save lives. Read the full story at NBCPalmSprings.com. #MountainCenter #Highway74 #PalmsToPines #CALFIRE #Wildfire WildfireRecovery FireSafety CoachellaValley SanJacintoMountains
Gas prices in Riverside County are climbing toward $6 a gallon — and that’s more than $1 higher than this time last year. A 15-gallon fill-up now costs about $86, leaving many drivers wondering how much longer they can absorb the rising cost. On this week’s Roggin Report, Fred Roggin and the panel debate how expensive gas is changing the way people travel, work and live — and why prices are so much higher here. Watch the full conversation at NBCPalmSprings.com. #RogginReport #FredRoggin #GasPrices #RiversideCounty #CoachellaValley