Bring the whole family out for Tucson’s 87th Annual La Fiesta de los Vaqueros from Feb. 18-26. The celebration of cowboys includes seven professional rodeo events: bareback riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, team roping, women’s barrel racing and bull riding. More than 650 contestants will be competing for more than $420,000 in prizes.

Kids can enjoy Dodge Mutton Bustin’, Justin Junior Rodeo and the REACh Program. At 12:30 p.m. Dodge Mutton Bustin’ gives kids ages 4-6 the opportunity to ride the bucking sheep while wearing protective vests and helmets. Perhaps your child will find his or her inner cowboy or cowgirl. Boys and girls ages 5-12 can rope, ride steer and barrel race in the Justin Junior Rodeo everyday at 1 p.m. while others will be getting an education at the REACh program. 

The REACh (Rodeo Education and Children) program offers kids a fun way to celebrate the history of the rodeo and the American West. Each program, which includes demonstrations with actual rodeo equipment, lasts 45 minutes and is offered on Monday, Feb. 20 and Tuesday, Feb. 21.

Join the more than 200,000 people enjoying The Tucson Rodeo Parade, The World’s Longest Non-Motorized Parade, at 9 a.m. on Feb. 23. Watch as western-themed floats, horse-drawn coaches, Mexican folk dancers, marching bands and outfitted riders strut their stuff down the streets of Tucson. 

Proceeds from the Tucson Rodeo benefit the University of Arizona scholarship fund, the Lion’s Club, Rotary Clubs and 4-H Groups. www.tucsonrodeo.com.