Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo: A Louisiana Tradition Rides Again

When the crisp January air settles over Lafayette, Louisiana, it brings with it one of the most anticipated events of the new year: the Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo. Set for January 9-12, 2025, at the historic Blackham Coliseum, this PRCA-sanctioned event promises four days of heart-pounding rodeo action, family-friendly entertainment, and a celebration of the rich western heritage that runs deep through Cajun Country.

Where Tradition Meets Competition

The Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo has established itself as a cornerstone event in the Louisiana Circuit, drawing top competitors from across the region who arrive ready to test their mettle against some of the finest stock in the country. With over $33,000 in prize money on the line, the stakes are high, and the competition fierce.

"This rodeo has become a must-attend stop for competitors looking to start their season strong," notes a PRCA representative. "The combination of great stock from Harper & Morgan Rodeo Co. and the enthusiastic Lafayette crowds creates an electric atmosphere that brings out the best in our athletes."

The 2025 edition marks another chapter in this storied event, which has become a cultural touchstone for the community—a place where generations of families gather to witness the timeless traditions of rodeo while creating new memories together.

The Main Events: A Showcase of Rodeo Excellence

Spectators can expect a full slate of PRCA-sanctioned events that showcase the diverse skills required in the rodeo arena:

Roughstock Events

Bareback Riding - Last year's champion Waylon Bourgeois scored an impressive 86.5 points on Brookman Rodeo's "Rockin' Out" to claim the title. This event requires riders to maintain control for eight seconds with only one hand gripping a rigging while the horse bucks, twists, and kicks beneath them. The combination of raw power and technical precision makes this one of the most physically demanding events in rodeo.

Saddle Bronc Riding - Often called rodeo's classic event, saddle bronc riding evolved directly from the task of breaking horses for ranch work. Last year's winner Treyson Antonick scored 79 points on Harper & Morgan Rodeo Co's "Gold Buckle Beer" to take home the buckle. The rhythmic spurring motion and controlled strength required make this event as much about style as stamina.

Bull Riding - The event that often brings crowds to their feet, bull riding features the ultimate showdown between man and beast. Jesse Petri's 88-point ride on "Diabolical" secured him the championship last year, but a new crop of determined bull riders will be looking to claim the title in 2025. With riders attempting to stay aboard a spinning, bucking bull for eight seconds with only a flat braided rope for support, this event delivers unmatched intensity.

Timed Events

Steer Wrestling - Also known as "bulldogging," this event showcases raw strength and precise timing as cowboys leap from horseback onto a running steer, using technique and leverage to bring the animal to the ground. Kent Jordan's combined time of 9.3 seconds on two head earned him the average win last year.

Team Roping - The only true team event in rodeo pairs a header and heeler working in perfect coordination to rope a steer's horns and hind legs. Cooper Cowan and Cade Cowan demonstrated championship-level teamwork last year with a winning average of 15.8 seconds on two head.

Tie-Down Roping - A test of speed, skill, and cowboy know-how, this event requires competitors to rope a calf, dismount, and tie three of the animal's legs together in the shortest time possible. Weldon Watson dominated this event last year with a two-head average of 16.5 seconds.

Barrel Racing - Showcasing the partnership between horse and rider, barrel racing features competitors navigating a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels at breakneck speeds. Abbie Crews' lightning-fast 14.50-second run topped the field last year, but the 2025 competition promises to be equally thrilling as riders push for even faster times.

Beyond the Arena: A Complete Fair Experience

While the rodeo action serves as the centerpiece of the event, the Mid Winter Fair offers something for everyone. The fairgrounds surrounding Blackham Coliseum transform into a hub of activity featuring:

Carnival Midway - Thrill-seekers can enjoy a variety of rides and games that light up the night with color and excitement.

Agricultural Exhibits - True to its roots as a celebration of rural life, the fair showcases the best of local agriculture with livestock exhibitions and educational displays that connect visitors to the region's farming heritage.

Vendor Marketplace - From western wear to handcrafted goods, the vendor area offers unique shopping opportunities for those looking to take home a piece of the experience.

Food Vendors - No fair experience would be complete without the aromas of classic fair food wafting through the air. From Louisiana specialties to traditional fair favorites, the culinary offerings satisfy every craving.

Live Entertainment - Throughout the event, various performances keep the energy high even outside the main arena, creating a festival atmosphere that extends beyond the rodeo competition.

The Competitors: Cowboys and Cowgirls to Watch

The 2025 Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo will welcome a mix of established champions and rising stars to Lafayette. While the final competitor list won't be set until closer to the event, fans can expect to see many familiar faces from last year's competition looking to defend their titles.

The all-around title will be hotly contested, with cowboys competing in multiple events to prove their versatility and comprehensive rodeo skills. Last year's all-around champion demonstrated mastery in both tie-down roping and team roping to claim the prestigious honor.

The Stock: Partners in the Performance

Any rodeo competitor will tell you that great animals make for great rides, and the Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo delivers some of the best stock in the business. Harper & Morgan Rodeo Co. returns as the primary stock contractor, bringing their impressive pen of roughstock and timed-event cattle.

Keep an eye out for standout animals like "Diabolical," the powerful bull that carried Jesse Petri to an 88-point ride last year, and "Rockin' Out," the bareback horse that helped Waylon Bourgeois secure his championship with an 86.5-point performance.

These carefully bred and conditioned animals are athletes in their own right, receiving top-notch care throughout the year and performing for just a few seconds during each rodeo. Their natural athleticism and spirit are essential components of the rodeo experience.

Securing Your Spot at the Action

With the Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo's growing popularity, securing tickets early is highly recommended. Tickets for the 2025 event are expected to go on sale in early November 2024, right here on this page.

Various ticket options will be available to accommodate different preferences and budgets:

• Single-day rodeo performance tickets
• Multi-day rodeo packages
• Fair-only admission options
• VIP experiences with premium seating and additional perks
• Family packages

Special discounts will be available for children, seniors, and military personnel, making this an affordable entertainment option for the entire family.

When tickets become available, purchasing online through this official page is the most convenient method and ensures you're getting authentic tickets at the correct price. Online ticket buyers will have the option for mobile delivery, allowing for contactless entry at the event.

Plan Your Visit

Location: Blackham Coliseum, Lafayette, LA

Dates: January 9-12, 2025

Parking: Ample parking will be available on-site at Blackham Coliseum. Arrive early for the best spots, especially for popular weekend performances.

Accessibility: The venue is equipped with accessible seating areas and facilities for guests with disabilities. These specialized seating areas can be requested when purchasing tickets.

What to Bring: While January in Louisiana can be mild, evening performances may get chilly. Layered clothing is recommended. Don't forget your camera to capture the memories, and consider bringing hearing protection, especially for younger attendees.

Security: For everyone's safety, all bags may be subject to inspection upon entry. The event maintains a family-friendly atmosphere with security personnel present throughout the venue.

Community Impact

Beyond providing world-class entertainment, the Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo serves as an important economic driver for Lafayette and the surrounding communities. The event brings visitors from across the region who patronize local hotels, restaurants, and businesses during their stay.

Additionally, the rodeo connects urban residents with the agricultural roots that remain vital to Louisiana's economy and cultural identity. For many young attendees, this may be their first exposure to livestock and the western way of life that continues to shape American culture.

The Spirit of Rodeo Lives in Lafayette

As the calendar turns to 2025, the Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo stands ready to deliver another unforgettable chapter in its storied history. From the heart-stopping moments when a rider nods their head and the chute gate swings open to the family memories created among the lights of the carnival midway, this event embodies the spirit of rodeo at its finest.

Whether you're a longtime rodeo enthusiast who can name every champion from years past or a first-time attendee curious about this uniquely American sport, the Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo welcomes you to experience the tradition, competition, and community that have made it a Louisiana favorite.

Mark your calendars for January 9-12, 2025, and prepare to witness the perfect blend of athletic excellence, western heritage, and family entertainment that only a PRCA-sanctioned rodeo can provide. The dust will fly, the crowd will roar, and the timeless drama of rodeo will once again unfold in the heart of Cajun Country.

Tickets for the 2025 Mid Winter Fair & Rodeo will be available for purchase right here on this page when they go on sale in November 2024.