Hold on to your cowboy hats, this isn’t your grandfather’s rodeo! The Clash of the Cowboys is returning to the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds on November 16 and promises more fun-filled excitement than ever before! Expect music, entertainment, pyrotechnics and spotlights – things you may not see at a more traditional rodeo.
“Although we love a traditional rodeo, there are certain events that are exciting to watch and keep the crowd on the edge of their seats,” says Chelsea Howell for Howell Rodeo Company. Based out of Oregon, the Howell Rodeo Company is a family-owned and operated business that produces some of the “most prestigious stock in the Northwest.” It’s a legacy they have been building for over 30 years, and they are bringing that prestige to The Clash of the Cowboys at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds!
So, What to Expect?
Expect to have an incredible family-friendly fun time! Have you ever seen Cowboys introduced with strobe lights and fog? The best of the best rough stock meets countryfied-rock show for an evening you will never forget. To keep the excitement going strong, The Clash of the Cowboys focuses on the top favorite events at every rodeo: Saddle Bronc Riding, Barrel Racing, Bareback Riding and Bull Riding. This means the action is non-stop from the singing of the National Anthem until the dust settles.
And speaking of the National Anthem, be sure you are not late to this year’s event – you do not want to miss it, promises Howell. “Just like last year, we will be bringing the heat for our famous opening ceremonies,” she shares. “We work hard to put on the best opening we possibly can and we’re always changing it up. I would also like to mention that we will have an outstanding National Anthem Singer, she will give you goosebumps.”
Get to The Clash of the Cowboys early to shop the vendors, carrying all kinds of cowboy accoutrements including belt buckles hats, sporting goods and more. There will be clothing and other rodeo-related swag as well! New this year, Akins Trailer Sales will be on-hand with a range of Logan horse trailers for the public to check out. “They will have consultants available on hand to talk about these versatile and well-built trailers,” Howell says. “If you’ve been thinking about buying a new trailer, they can answer all your questions.”
When it’s time for a snack, head to the vendors for burgers, hot dogs, chicken strips and more. A beer garden will also be open to those over 21-years-old.
After the rodeo, the party is just getting started for those 21-years-old and over. Connor Ackle and Kelsey Bales will be hitting the stage to entertain the after-party. “They are individual artists who are combining their forces to put on a fantastic show,” Howelle shares. “Connor Ackley is a true cowboy who enjoys Team Roping and has actually roped at Elma during the March rodeo and Kelsey is an up and coming female country singer who is so excited to make her first trip to Grays Harbor.” Listen to their music, dance and enjoy the company of fellow rodeo fans.
Heading to The Clash of the Cowboys
Parking is free at the event and the doors open at 5:00 p.m., with the show starting at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase online for $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Cash and card accepted. Children 5-years-old and under are free. You can also purchase your tickets in advanced at the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds, Montesano Farm & Home, or at Les Schwab locations in Elma, Centralia and Olympia. For more information visit the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds website or the Howell Rodeo Company Facebook page.