If you didn’t get enough rodeo this summer, there’s one more chance to dust off the boots, pull out the cowboy hat and head for the arena as Folsom gets ready for a fall edition of rodeo action — this time with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office riding into town.
The third annual Sacramento County Sheriff’s Rodeo returns Saturday, Oct. 3, to the Dan Russell Rodeo Arena in Folsom, bringing bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, roping, mutton busting and plenty of western entertainment back to an arena that knows a thing or two about rodeo. Gates open at 4 p.m., with the rodeo getting underway at 6 p.m.
For Folsom residents, it amounts to something of an encore to the city’s traditional summer rodeo season. The community celebrated the 65th anniversary of the Folsom Pro Rodeo in July, complete with three nights of competition and entertainment, and the city’s western heritage was on full display throughout the summer.
Now, as October arrives and the summer heat begins giving way to fall evenings, the cowboy hats are coming back out for another night under the arena lights.
This time, the badges are joining the boots.
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Rodeo was launched in 2024 and has quickly grown into an annual event built around two things that organizers say have long shared common ground — western tradition and public service. Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper described that connection when the event debuted, noting that both rodeo and law enforcement have histories rooted in courage, dedication, resilience and teamwork.
What started as a new event just two years ago is now returning for its third edition, with a full slate of competition planned for the Folsom arena.
The 2026 lineup includes the grand entry, Sheriff’s Stampede, Pro-Am Team Roping, mutton busting, breakaway roping, barrel racing, the Hide Race, bull riding, saddle bronc and ranch bronc competition, along with rodeo entertainment and live music.
That means spectators can expect plenty of the familiar sights and sounds that make a night at the rodeo what it is — horses charging through the arena, ropes flying, barrels being turned at speed and riders attempting to hang on when the chute gate swings open.
Bull riding will once again provide some of the biggest thrills of the evening, while saddle and ranch bronc events bring another traditional piece of rodeo competition to the program. Barrel racers will race against the clock, ropers will put precision and teamwork to the test, and some of the youngest competitors will get their own turn in the spotlight during mutton busting.
There is also a distinctly Sheriff’s Office twist to the evening, including the Sheriff’s Stampede and Hide Race, adding some law enforcement personality to a program otherwise filled with familiar rodeo favorites.
While the action inside the arena provides the entertainment, the purpose behind the event extends well beyond the chutes.
The rodeo benefits the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Foundation, which supports the Sheriff’s Office through funding for equipment and training as well as assistance for employees and their families. The foundation also supports efforts aimed at preventing youth drug use and gang involvement and works with donors, community leaders and nonprofit organizations on philanthropic projects throughout Sacramento County.
That charitable mission has been part of the rodeo since its beginning. When Cooper welcomed spectators to the inaugural event in 2024, he described the rodeo as an opportunity not only to showcase athleticism and western tradition, but to bring law enforcement and the community together in a different setting.
Folsom provides a fitting backdrop for that effort.
Long before subdivisions, shopping centers and technology companies became part of the local landscape, ranching and agriculture were woven into the region’s identity. That history remains visible each summer when rodeo returns to town, and it was especially prominent this year as Folsom celebrated both its 80th anniversary as an incorporated city and the 65th anniversary of the Folsom Pro Rodeo.
The return of the Sheriff’s Rodeo in October gives western fans an unexpected bonus round.
Organizers are encouraging spectators to arrive early, particularly those purchasing general admission tickets. General admission seating is festival-style bleacher seating and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. General admission tickets are $40, while reserved seating is $55.
A family pack is also available for $130 and includes four general admission tickets. Organizers say only 100 family packs are available.
There is something new for adults this year as well. The rodeo has introduced a Party Zone for guests 21 and older. Tickets are $75 and include access to a designated seating area with arena views, one complimentary drink and one shot, along with dedicated cocktail service in the section.
Children older than 1 require a ticket, and strollers are not permitted inside the arena because of fire regulations and limited seating space. Accessible seating is available, with organizers recommending reserved seats in the upper rows for guests who need to minimize stairs. Wheelchair seating can also be arranged through rodeo organizers.
Spectators should also take note of the event’s clear-bag policy before heading to the arena. Permitted bags include clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches, small clear drawstring bags and small clutch or wristlet bags no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. Backpacks, coolers, camera bags, fanny packs and oversized non-clear bags are prohibited.
Guests may bring a factory-sealed bottle of water, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and a blanket to sit on. Outside food and beverages, ice chests, stadium chairs, pets, professional cameras and video equipment are prohibited. Parking will be available for $20, payable by cash or credit on site.
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Rodeo takes place Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Dan Russell Rodeo Arena, 200 Stafford St. in Folsom. Gates open at 4 p.m. and competition begins at 6 p.m.
Tickets remain available through the official Sacramento County Sheriff’s Rodeo website. Sacramento County Sheriff’s Rodeo tickets
For those who thought Folsom’s rodeo season ended when the final fireworks faded over the arena in July, Saturday night offers another opportunity to cowboy up. This time there may be a little more fall in the air, but once the chutes open and the arena lights come on, the sights, sounds and traditions of rodeo will be right back where Folsom fans know them best.
Copyright © 2026, Folsom Times, a digital product of All Town Media LLC. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the publisher.
