It is the May long weekend and that means the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair in Surrey! If you’ve enjoyed the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE), you will want to make it to Surrey. It truly is unique and country fun within a rural setting in the heart of Cloverdale. So many activities, exhibits and festivities to choose from for your $10 admission fee. The fair appeals to all ages and families. Teenagers outnumber everyone, but they are there to have fun. Plenty of authentic cowboys and cowgirls for us urban types. Sights, sounds and tastes make it a constant barrage of your senses. Wow, huge fun!
The number one attraction is the professional rodeo event staged each day in the Stetson Bowl onsite. In addition, there are the midway rides, giant food area, barbecue competitions and various exhibits. Plus, much more to choose from such as a World Freestyle Round-Up Skateboard Championship, Classic Car Show, Kidz Zone, Go-Kart Cone Zone, Aboriginal Gathering Place, Live Band Stage and Lumberjack Show.
Between the Stetson Bowl and the Midway area, indulge yourself in a huge variety of food that tastes great. You can choose from the following in the giant food area: funnel cakes, mini-donuts, kettle corn, chicken curly fries, donairs, corn dogs, deep-fried pies, turkey legs, poutine, mexican, noodle bars, Triple-O White Spot, phat dogs, pizza, fresh squeezed lemonade and various food trucks.
Deep Fried Peach Pie
While you’re at the midway Amusement rides, lots of games and of course more fair food such as Hawaiian Shaved Ice, Cotton Candy, Slushes and Popcorn. Many teenagers wearing the plaid shirts popular at country fairs and rodeos. You have the carnies inviting you to play their games, teenagers and children laughing and the smells of the popular midway food stalls.
For those of you who might need some cash, they even have a mobile ATM trailer! There are a couple of spiritual readers located around the site. If you forgot your plaid shirt and jean cutoffs, you can locate new rodeo clothing pretty easily towards the food area. Get to the Competition Barbecue area to sample the ribs, pulled pork and beef brisket. These are southern style Memphis barbecue goodies at their best! Three professional barbecue pit teams provide superior barbecue tastes that are unmatched in the Lower Mainland. There is even an all-female pit team led by Jessica Kyllo from North Vancouver. The three teams are involved in the Rib Fest judged by you, the customer.
Of course, the number one attraction is the rodeo. Many Vancouverites have not experienced a rodeo and this is the place to gain appreciation for these skilled and brave cowboy and cowgirl athletes. This Invitational Rodeo attracts top competitors from around North America. Featuring Bareback Riding, Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc and Ladies Barrel Racing. As well, Tomas Garcilazo is incredible with his rope tricks while riding his horse. Catch each of the events. The announcer is world famous and keeps the action moving even between events and competitors. For the kids, they will love watching the mutton bustin’ competition by little kids riding sheep.
Your last stop may be the onsite Longhorn Saloon. Leave some time to wait in line. This is the most popular establishment at the event. Admission is included with your general admission ticket. Beer on tap, cider and coolers can be found.
You are out in Cloverdale and despite the threat of rain, you can really enjoy the country air and fair grounds – it’s good to get away from the city sometimes. You can reach it by car from Highway 1 and Highway 99, but check Google Maps for the best directions. Tickets can be purchased online or at the fairgrounds. Last day is Monday. Check their website for a calendar and schedule of events. Your grounds admission is $10, but kids 12 and under get in free. Rodeo tickets cost $20, but kids 12 and under get in free. You can purchase Ride ALL day Wristbands for $40.
Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair
Address: 6050 176th Street, Surrey, V3S 4E7
Phone Number: 604-576-9461
Website: www.cloverdalerodeo.com
Twitter: @cloverdalerodeo
Connect with Randy on Twitter @airschis.
Vancity Buzz is proud to be the official blog partner of the 2013 Cloverdale Rodeo.
Follow Channels and Categories