Oregon’s Pendleton Round Up

Every summer, Oregon fully embraces the spirit of the wild west by celebrating the art of the rodeo. The Pendleton Round Up

Sure, just about every state has their version of a rodeo, but in Oregon, the Pendleton Round Up rodeo is kind of a big deal. Attracting over 50,000 spectators from all over the globe (more than double the population of Pendleton!), it is a week-long celebration, with a couple of town parades (don’t miss the Westward Ho! Parade) and dozens of different events throughout the week. Held the second week September, the Pendleton Round Up has been entertaining rodeo lovers from all walks of life since 1910.

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla have a significant presence in the rodeo’s festivities, and their flag is flown during the beginning ceremonies (along with the U.S., Oregon and Canadian flags). Pendleton Woolen Mills (a company I used to work for) always comes out with a new Pendleton Round Up wool blanket, which quickly become collector’s items.

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Let ‘er Buck!

There’s even a signature whiskey to commemorate the Pendleton Round Up. Aptly called ‘Let ‘er Buck’, it’s a smooth Canadian whisky distilled in Hood River, OR. Find out more here. http://pendletonwhisky.com/

Where to Stay

Well…since the population of Pendleton more than doubles during Pendleton Round Up, it goes without saying that the earlier you book, the better! Here is a great place to start:

AirBnb

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