Crooked River Roundup Celebrates 81 Years of Tradition with Red, White & Rodeo
- Megan Nicole Larson
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
This year marks the 81st Crooked River Roundup from June 25–27, 2026 in Prineville, Oregon. In honor of the United States celebrating it's 250th birthday, the theme this year with be Red, White, & Rodeo. As part of this theme, 250 American flags will placed throughout the grounds in honor of the country's birthday and the generations of farmers, ranchers, military, and all the hardworking and self-sacrificing citizens that have built this great nation.
Reigning rodeo queen Aubrey DeRoest of Powell Butte will be leading this year's PRCA rodeo and events. The Oregon native has spent her past year representing the Crooked River Roundup throughout the region, serving as an ambassador for the sport of rodeo and the values and traditions it represents. Through appearances, visiting other rodeos, and attending Western lifestyle events, she has shared her passion for the foundation of the Western lifestyle from agriculture, horsemanship, and Western heritage.
Hank Simmons, a very respected member of the community, will be this year's Grand Marshal after spending the last several years serving as director before becoming president of the Crooked River Roundup. Hank has actively contributed to the agricultural community and preserving the traditions that have shaped rural Oregon. Colleagues, friends, and rodeo volunteers often speak highly about his integrity, work ethic, and willingness to mentor others. The title of Grand Marshal is an honor to bestow on someone that has made such a lasting impact on generations of ranchers, rodeo athletes, and community members throughout Central Oregon. His selection by the rodeo committee reflects a lifetime of dedication to the Crooked River Roundup.
Prior to the start of the rodeo is the annual Cattle Drive through downtown Prineville giving rodeo fans a peak into the past and agricultural heritage. Following the cattle drive spectators and rodeo fans are encouraged to come downtown for the Stampede Street Party for an evening filled with food, music, and local vendors to kick off the rodeo weekend.
There will also be three nights packed PRCA rodeo action along with a Young Guns Showcase which highlighting the next generation of rodeo athletes . Thursday night, The Crooked River Roundup is proud to support the Golden Circle of Champions in honor of pediatric cancer patients and their families. This program provides support, encouragement and cowboy camaraderie to the bravest young champions. “Working hard to fight Pediatric Cancer, one Champion at a time.”
Adding to the excitement, nationally recognized Western artist Olivia Harms and the Road Runners will perform during Roundup Week, bringing their authentic honkytonk sound to Prineville.
For 81 years, the Crooked River Roundup has remained committed to preserving the Western way of life while creating memories that last a lifetime. This year's Red, White & Rodeo celebration serves as a reminder that rodeo is more than a sport. It is a living tradition that connects communities, honors heritage, and brings people together.
This will also be the 60th year of pari-mutuel horse racing in Prineville. Since 1966, horse racing has been an important part of the Roundup tradition.
About the Crooked River Roundup
The Crooked River Roundup is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Western heritage through rodeo, horse racing, youth programs, scholarships, and community events. Held annually in Prineville, Oregon, the Crooked River Roundup is recognized as one of the state's premier rodeo traditions and serves as a celebration of the people, values, and lifestyle that define rural Oregon.
