Shawn Patrick’s top 10 things to do at the Greeley Stampede
Jun 27, 2025, 4:24 PM | Updated: Jun 30, 2025, 11:36 am
A short drive north from Denver will have you in Greeley, my hometown and the home of the Greeley Stampede, one of the biggest rodeo and western celebrations in America. It’s where I fell in love with country music and rodeos, and still my favorite summer event to attend. So, if you’re making the trip for the first time or you’ve been hundreds of times like me, I have a few suggestions for things you need to see…
10. Western Art Show
I have to be honest, I am not much of an art guy, but this isn’t the kind of stuff that’s in a museum. This art depicts western lifestyle and all that the Greeley Stampede is about, which makes it a little easier to understand for a guy like me. The annual Stampede Western Invitational Art Exhibit & Sale features Western paintings, sculptures and artwork from across the country and is open throughout the event.
9. Kids Korral
It’s usually frowned upon for a grown man to play in the kids area, but my kiddos love all the free activities like a sandbox play area, petting zoo, pedal tractors, face painting, balloon artists, stick horse rodeo and more.
8. Touch-A-Truck
Having two young boys, getting them up close and personal with big trucks always gets me dad brownie points! Touch-a-Truck is at 3 p.m. on July 4 and is a free attraction for park guests (included with park admission) to visit and tour each “truck.” This attraction will be located on 14th Avenue. Multiple large-scale trucks will be featured and available for guests to explore first-hand with support from company workers.
7. Hot Rods and Horsepower Car Show
The sixth annual Stampede Hot Rods & Horsepower car show will feature more than 70 classic cars and custom hot rods. The cars will be on display around the south side of the park from 11 a.m. (park open) until 3:00 p.m. and is a free attraction for park guests (included with park admission).
6. Carnival Americana
The first thing you’ll see when you drive up to the Greeley Stampede is a giant arena and a bunch of rides. Those rides make up the Carnival Americana and provide hours of thrills. The Greeley Stampede’s carnival features a large selection of rides for all age groups, plus midway games and food stands, with all the classic carnivals foods. The carnival is open every day of the Stampede. You can get individual ride tickets or a daily unlimited ride wristband at the carnival box office.
5. Civitas Park Stage
Formally known as the “Free Entertainment Stage,” The Greeley Stampede has additional concerts that will take place throughout the event and are included with park admission. Among the performers are Rodney Atkins, Lit, Casey Donahew, Keith Nieto, Cain, Braxton Keith and Conjunto Relincho. This list is just a portion of the many performers. See the full list.
4. Food
Nothing says a summer festival like all the great food options. From traditional carnival fare like corndogs and funnel cakes to local eateries offering their best dishes, and everything in-between. The Greeley Stampede has a ton of food options and something to please everyone’s palate.
3. Demolition Derby
What’s cooler than watching cars ram into each other? I say not much! More than 100 drivers will compete in the multi-heat Demolition Derby that’s been a fan favorite during the Stampede for the last decade. The derby takes place Sunday, July 6, at 4 p.m.
2. Concerts
Some of the biggest names in country music and beyond make the trek to Greeley every summer to perform at the Stampede. The 2025 concert lineup at the Greeley Stampede will feature Parker McCollum, Scotty McCreery, Justin Moore, Warren Zieders, Ludacris and more. Tickets for all concerts are now on sale.
1. PRCA Pro Rodeos
The event the Greeley Stampede was built on…rodeo! The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Rodeo Series runs through Wednesday, July 2. Each PRCA Rodeo Performance includes Bareback, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, Saddle Bronc, Tie Down Roping, Mutton Bustin, Barrel Racing and Bull Riding.
Also, don’t miss the Independence Day Parade, the Fireworks, American Bull Fighting and many more great events and attractions at the 103rd Greeley Stampede. Get all the info and tickets here.
