ABBYVILLE, Kan. – For a weekend every May, Abbyville transforms into the host for one of the premier small rodeos in the country. The 60th Abbyville Frontier Days and PRCA Rodeo take place this Friday and Saturday, May 19th and 20th.
“It’s a family-oriented rodeo,” said hometown bullfighter Jacob Welker. “You can just enjoy it, it’s a fun weekend to bring the family out.”
Gates open for Friday Night’s family night at 6 p.m. with mutton bustin’ for the first 30 kids. Saturday highlights include the parade at 10:30 a.m., the ranch rodeo, and a barbecue meal at 5:30 p.m., followed by the rodeo finals. Come back on Sunday from the Cowboy Church Service at 10:30 a.m.
“The fact that I get to come to Abbyville after hearing so much about it for so long is a very big privilege for me,” said Miss Rodeo America Kennadee Riggs. “It might be a small town that puts it on, but they sure do a good job.”
The Abbyville Rodeo is a must-attend event for competing cowboys and cowgirls from all over. In 2022, the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association recognized Abbyville as the PRCA Small Rodeo of the Year.
Joining Welker in the arena to entertain the crowd will be veteran bullfighter Wade Kunze and barrel man Matt Tar.
Unique to the Abbyville Rodeo is its world-famous homemade pie. Something Welker says is a must-have. “You can’t forget the homemade pie,” he said. “That’s the best part of the weekend, we’re the pie capital of the world.”
Tickets for each night’s rodeo action are $10, with kids 12 and under admitted free. The cost for the barbecue meal is $8 per person. Purchase your tickets in advance at select locations or at the gate.
“One thing we like to say in the rodeo world is that we sell you the whole seat, but you’ll only use the edge of it,” Riggs said. “One of the best parts of rodeo is that it’s so captivating. No matter what age you are, it’s fun to watch.”
For more information, follow Abbyville Frontier Days and PRCA Rodeo on Facebook or visit https://abbyvillerodeo.weebly.com/.
