Folsom Pro Rodeo volunteers celebrated in Handley’s tradition

With just days until the grandstands fill and fireworks light up the Folsom sky, the community spirit that defines one of the city’s cherished traditions is already in high gear. This week, that energy came to life at Handley’s Work and Western Wear, where the family-run store once again hosted a lively appreciation event for the volunteers of the Folsom Pro Rodeo, now preparing to celebrate its 64th year.

Held at the store’s longtime location on East Bidwell Street, the evening brought together dozens of rodeo volunteers, community members, and local families for a celebration steeped in tradition and Western flair. Organized in partnership with Tonno’s Bar and Grill, the event served as the official volunteer T-shirt pickup but offered far more—including a barbecue dinner, a hosted bar provided by Tonno’s, and live music by Bobby Dickson. Attendees also took advantage of rodeo-week discounts on boots, hats, belts, patriotic gear, and, of course, official Folsom Pro Rodeo apparel, exclusively available at Handley’s.

Kids tried their hand at roping games and families posed for photos among displays of Western gear, adding to the festive mood as the community prepared to once again embrace the spirit of rodeo season in Folsom.

Handley’s Western Wear has been a part of the Folsom Pro Rodeo since day one. In fact, the iconic store opened in the same year the rodeo first raised dust in 1961. The business was founded by Chet and Donella Handley, who envisioned a small-town mercantile for “the working man.” Chet, a World War II veteran, and Donella, a local bookkeeper, worked side by side to establish a retail destination that would become a staple in the community.

Decades later, the store remains family-operated, now run by granddaughters Julie Spitler and Grace Rittenhouse, who proudly carry on the Handley tradition with the same hands-on customer service and local pride that shaped the original shop.

Back in the early years, Handley’s was best known for selling rugged workwear. Over time, it evolved into one of the region’s most respected sources for high-quality Western apparel. Whether it’s boots and belts or Wranglers and cowboy hats, the store outfits rodeo contestants, spectators, and patriotic parade-goers alike—year-round, and especially in the days leading up to the Fourth of July.

“We have always been a sponsor and continue our grandparents’ tradition of supporting the rodeo,” says Julie Spitler. “Rodeo is our favorite time of the year. We love getting the community rodeo-ready with boots, hats, belts, buckles and Wranglers. It’s so much fun watching the whole community come together and celebrate America for the 4th of July. We’ve been doing this for 64 years now, and it’s still our favorite time of the year.”

Step inside the store today and you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and a layout that has barely changed in decades—rows of jeans and boots stacked high, and walls adorned with memorabilia celebrating the Western lifestyle. Even sales receipts are still handwritten at the counter, just like they were in the early days.

“We’ve stayed in business for 64 years because of this great community and support,” says Spitler. “The Folsom Rodeo is one of the fun events that brings so many amazing people and families into our store around rodeo time. Truly the Folsom Rodeo brings the whole town and the surrounding towns together.”

Rodeo Season Kicks Off Next Week

With the Handley’s celebration now in the books, the countdown is officially on for the 2025 Folsom Pro Rodeo, which runs Thursday, July 3 through Saturday, July 5 at Dan Russell Arena.

Now in its 64th year, the Folsom Pro Rodeo is expected to deliver all the high-octane action and patriotic pageantry fans have come to love—professional rodeo events, freestyle motocross, nightly fireworks, and fan favorites like Mutton Bustin’ and the Silver Dollar Dig.

Each night begins at 6 p.m. with gates opening and pre-show entertainment. The main rodeo action kicks off at 7:30 p.m., followed by a high-flying aerial fireworks finale to cap off the evening. While tickets for July 3 are sold out, seats are still available for July 4 and 5, and can be purchased online at www.folsomprorodeo.com.

This weekend also includes the Historic Folsom Hometown Parade, beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 29, with floats, marching bands, classic cars, and this year’s Grand Marshal Charlie Grows, a beloved community figure who began his firefighting career at just 16 and whose roots in Folsom go back generations.

For locals and visitors alike, the Folsom Pro Rodeo is more than just a show—it’s a time-honored tradition that unites the community in celebration of heritage, patriotism, and good old-fashioned fun. And thanks to businesses like Handley’s, that tradition stays rooted right where it began—here in Folsom.

To learn more about Handley’s Work and Western Wear, visit www.handleysworkandwesternwear.com or stop by their store at 314 East Bidwell Street, open seven days a week.

For more information about the rodeo and a full schedule of events, visit www.folsomprorodeo.com.

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