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 Since
1921, when the Cattlemen's Association put on its first Fortuna Rodeo,
one has been held every year since then except during World War II. The
participants come from all over the West. This two-day rodeo, held on
the third weekend in July, is the oldest rodeo in Northern California
and has the largest payoff per event in the state with a $2,500 top
prize for the all-around champion. A prize handmade saddle is given to
the top local cowboy. Due to its size, a Junior Rodeo is held
separately, attracting over a hundred young entrants.
The size of the audience has also grown and ten thousand people
descend on Fortuna for the week-long event. This event includes
street games, sports and contests, breakfasts and barbecues, a Chili Cookoff, a
carnival, dances and shows, including a long parade through
downtown Fortuna on Saturday. The parade includes the Kidnapped
Tourists (photo album) - a lucky couple who have been treated royally for
several days with stays at the finest lodgings and food from the
finest restaurants.
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of food, the Kiwanis breakfast and the Rodeo Deep Pit Barbecue are legendary. No
one goes away hungry. The deep pit barbecue is delicious, thanks to an
all-night effort by the tired crew. |
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