Courtesy of Salem Championship Stampede Rodeo
For the 55th time, the Salem Championship Stampede Rodeo, presented by Kroger and Ram Rodeo/Berglund Ram, makes its way to the Salem Civic Center Jan. 6-8. And much like previous appearances, this year’s rodeo will continue the legacy handed down over the years that includes providing a family experience that ages 2 to 82 can enjoy, while providing some unique specialty acts and professional cowboys and cowgirls chasing points for a world title.
“It’s always special coming to Salem and to think of all those who have been part of bringing the longest running family show to the Salem Civic Center,” Kevin DeBusk, spokesperson for the Salem Stampede Championship Rodeo, said.
Courtesy of Salem Championship Stampede Rodeo
He continued saying, “In 2022 we had huge crowds and even sold-out Saturday night and can’t wait to see what happens this year. And to do our best to assure our success continues we will do exactly what we’ve prided ourselves on for years which is bringing a unique specialty act and top-notch rodeo clown in addition to some of the best cowboys and cowgirls. And we definitely believe people will enjoy this year’s unique act.”
This year’s specialty act is five-time national all-around Charro and 17-time Texas Champion Francisco Flores of San Antonio, Texas. As part of Flores’s performance, spectators will see “some of his fancy roping skills horseback as well as from the ground with the assistance of his sons.”
“I’m grateful for this opportunity and very excited to share a little of my tradition and culture with the people Salem,” Flores said about his upcoming appearance
In addition to Flores, spectators will enjoy multi time, including2022, top five International Professional Rodeo Association, Clown of the Year Mike Wentworth and Boot Barn mutton busting, which will feature 10 kids each night that 4-6 and under 50 pounds. Registration will occur on the arena floor prior to each performance and be on a first come basis. Additionally, kids must be able to fit our vest and helmets.
Aside from the family entertainment aspect spectators will get to see high impact rodeo action, featuring professional cowboys and cowgirls from across the country, including many from Virginia.
Organizers are encouraging attendees to purchase their tickets in advance at the Salem Civic Center Box Office and online at ticketmaster.com. More information about the rodeo can be found on the rodeo’s Facebook page or at
Avoid the lines and get advance tickets at the Salem Civic Center Box Office as well as ticketmaster.com. And you can follow information about the rodeo on the Salem Civic Center’s website.
The rodeo’s schedule is as follows: 7:30 p.m. on Friday, 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.
-The Salem Times-Register