Desert Rodeo Debuts This Weekend in Thermal with Western Fun for the Whole Family

Saddle up, Coachella Valley — the very first Desert Rodeo has officially kicked off at the International Horse Park in Thermal!

NBC Palm Springs' Chloe Carlson was on-site Friday afternoon, getting the full lowdown on the hoedown. From breakaway roping and steer wrestling to mechanical bull rides and Western shopping, Desert Rodeo promises a full weekend of family-friendly fun and authentic rodeo action.

Cassie DiLaura , co-founder of Desert Rodeo, described the experience as "out of body," seeing the two years of planning finally come to life. “I’m just so grateful for the community for welcoming us,” she said. "There’s truly something for everyone here."

The event, which runs Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., includes:

• Pro rodeo action starting at 1 p.m. each day

• Retail Ranch and Outlaw Oasis shopping areas

• Food and drinks featuring everything from Smash Burgers to Poke Bowls, with a special barbecue setup and a giant smoker

• Mechanical bull rides at the Rivian Mechanical Bull station

• Western photo ops featuring giant cutouts of George Strait

• Free iced tea samples from Real Iced Tea, with country star Morgan Wallen's team involved

Cotigo 1530 Tequila, associated with George Strait, is the event’s official tequila sponsor, adding a little extra country spirit to the festivities.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online at desertrodeo.com. Organizers recommend buying online to save time.

So grab your cowboy boots, channel your inner cowpoke, and enjoy a true taste of the West right here in the desert!

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