Historic Event Celebrates a Century-and-a-Quarter of Western Tradition
The War Bonnet Round Up, Idaho’s oldest continuously held rodeo, celebrated its 115th anniversary at Sandy Downs in Idaho Falls, drawing crowds to one of the region’s most storied livestock competitions. The 2024 edition showcased the rodeo’s enduring appeal while introducing new elements honoring the area’s tribal heritage.
Multi-generational families and rodeo enthusiasts from across the region converged on Sandy Downs for the event, which kicked off with the Toyota Wild West Family Fest, a family-friendly opening activity designed to draw attendees before the official rodeo competition began. A media event preceded opening night festivities, giving organizers an opportunity to highlight the rodeo’s significance and introduce changes made to enhance the celebration.
New Partnership Strengthens Community Ties
A notable addition to the 2024 rodeo was the incorporation of Shoshone Bannock Tribes heritage into the event’s programming. Shelby Woolstenhulme, who serves on the War Bonnet Round Up board of directors and manages tribal relations, spearheaded the effort to deepen the rodeo’s connection to the tribes. The collaboration resulted in a new opening act featuring tribal participation on Opening Night Thursday.
Woolstenhulme emphasized the importance of the partnership, saying “It means everything to have their stamp of approval. We would not have this rodeo if it was not for [the] Shoshone Bannock Tribes.” The partnership reflects a broader effort to recognize and celebrate the cultural heritage of the region’s indigenous communities while maintaining the rodeo’s traditional appeal.
The addition of tribal elements to the opening ceremonies represents a meaningful step toward ensuring the rodeo reflects the full history and character of the greater Idaho Falls area. Rather than treating cultural recognition as an afterthought, organizers made it a central part of the event’s opening, signaling the tribes’ integral role in the community’s identity.
Leadership and Talent Draw Regional Crowds
The rodeo’s success depends on its leadership team and the quality of competition it attracts. PJ Holm serves as executive director of the War Bonnet Round Up and also directs the Idaho Falls Department of Parks and Recreation, positioning the event as a cornerstone of the city’s cultural calendar. Kade Rogge fills the role of rodeo announcer, lending his expertise to the event’s live coverage.
Edie Barnes serves as the War Bonnet Round Up princess, representing the event throughout the year. In reflecting on the rodeo’s enduring significance, Barnes noted, “The War Bonnet is so special because it’s Idaho’s oldest rodeo.” Her role exemplifies how the event cultivates ambassadors who carry its legacy forward within their communities.
The rodeo’s ability to attract talent from across the region underscores its reputation as a premier livestock competition. Competitors and families view the War Bonnet Round Up as a marquee event on the regional rodeo circuit, ensuring a high caliber of performance and sustained audience interest.
What Comes Next
With 115 years of history behind it, the War Bonnet Round Up remains positioned to continue serving as a cultural anchor for Southeast Idaho. The integration of tribal heritage into the rodeo’s programming signals the organizers’ commitment to evolving the event while preserving its core identity. Future editions will likely build on the foundation established in 2024, deepening community partnerships and expanding the event’s appeal to new generations of rodeo enthusiasts.
For more information on community events in Southeast Idaho, visit the Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation website or explore other local celebrations shaping the region’s cultural landscape.