Few sights stir the patriotic spirit quite like the red, white, and blue-clad riders of the Painted Ladies Rodeo Performers, a team whose dazzling precision and equestrian pageantry have become synonymous with the Folsom Pro Rodeo for decades. As the city gears up for the 64th annual event, which kicks off Thursday, the beloved Painted Ladies are set to once again gallop into the spotlight, showcasing their blend of athleticism, showmanship and Americana.
Known for their glittering uniforms and thrilling choreographed rides, the Painted Ladies are more than just a fan favorite—they are a core part of the Folsom Pro Rodeo’s identity. Whether it’s opening the show with a patriotic flourish or thrilling the crowd with high-speed drill routines, the team’s performances have become a staple of the annual celebration.
Founded by Jennifer Macias-Sweeney, who still leads the group today, the Painted Ladies Rodeo Performers (PLRP) have been captivating audiences for more nearly 30 years. The group is made up of dedicated equestriennes who volunteer their time year-round to practice, perform, and inspire. They ride not just for the love of the sport, but for the shared goal of honoring the rodeo’s western roots and uplifting communities across the state.
While they are a regular feature in the Folsom Pro Rodeo and local parades, their influence stretches far beyond the city limits. From halftime shows at Sacramento River Cats games to the glitz of the Hollywood Christmas Parade and multiple appearances in the Tournament of Roses Parade, the Painted Ladies bring the spirit of Folsom to audiences across the country.
Set to an energetic soundtrack of contemporary hits and nostalgic anthems, their high-speed maneuvers and synchronized formations are more than entertainment—they are a celebration of precision, discipline and team spirit. Audiences don’t just watch the Painted Ladies—they feel the energy in every beat of the music and thunder of hooves.
Their performances will once again be a highlight of this year’s Folsom Pro Rodeo, which runs July 3 through July 5 at the Dan Russell Rodeo Arena. The event returns with all the excitement and tradition that has made it one of California’s premier summer rodeos.
Declared “Western Rodeo Days” by Mayor Sarah Aquino during last week’s Folsom City Council meeting, the Folsom Pro Rodeo carries with it more than just entertainment—it’s a community celebration steeped in legacy.
“For more than six decades, the Folsom Pro Rodeo has brought families and neighbors together to celebrate our community and our heritage,” said Mayor Aquino. “It’s not just about rodeo—it’s about honoring the history of the family-run cattle ranches that built Folsom, and the volunteers and organizations who continue to make it such a special experience each year.”
The rodeo features nightly PRCA-sanctioned events, including bull riding, team roping, barrel racing, breakaway roping, and more. Between events, the arena comes alive with high-flying stunts from the Flying Cowboys, thrilling bull jumping exhibitions, and crowd-pleasers like mutton bustin’ for the kids.
A post-show fireworks display caps off each night in spectacular fashion—an annual tradition that echoes the rodeo’s deep ties to Independence Day festivities.
Beyond the arena, the rodeo grounds are a festival of food, music, and local flavor. Guests can shop vendor booths, enjoy food trucks, and unwind at the Saloon Under the Stars, a popular rodeo-week gathering space featuring country music and community mixers.
“The Saloon Under the Stars is a spacious venue with room for chatting and dancing as the live music heats up,” said Choose Folsom CEO Joe Gagliardi. “Whether you’re attending the kickoff party or connecting with local entrepreneurs, the rodeo is a fun backdrop for both serious—and not-so-serious—conversations.”
Gagliardi emphasized that the rodeo is about more than just entertainment—it’s an economic and cultural driver for the region.
“The Folsom Pro Rodeo is a community event, first and foremost,” he said. “Its storied history goes back over 60 years, bringing patriotic family fun to Greater Sacramento.”
To make the event more accessible, Choose Folsom has partnered with SacRT to provide free light rail rides to Historic Folsom Station for rodeo-goers with valid admission tickets. A free trolley shuttle will run from the station directly to the rodeo grounds.
Those looking to make a weekend out of it can take advantage of the Rodeo Hotel Package, which includes complimentary rodeo tickets and paddleboard passes for guests booking a two-night stay at participating hotels between July 3–5.
“Western heritage is in Folsom’s DNA,” said Gagliardi. “We’re proud of our roots, but we’re also a city that innovates—and the rodeo reflects that. From the high-flying motocross antics of the Flying Cowboys to the skilled horses of the Painted Ladies, the Folsom Pro Rodeo features inspiring acts that may even spark a little creativity of your own.”
Tickets for Thursday’s opening night are officially sold out. Tickets remain available for Friday, July 4 and Saturday, July 5. Options include general admission, family packs, VIP hospitality, and premium seating. For full ticketing information, visit www.folsomprorodeo.com.
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