Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair Review + Photos

There was a little bit of rock’n roll and a whole lot of country during the May long weekend at the Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair (May 15-18).

The happy marriage between the country fair and this world class rodeo event (the second biggest in Canada) fuses together live entertainment and spectacular rodeo performances.

Your $12.00 entrance ticket gets you into the fair (12 and under free). Here is what you can find whilst strolling across the massive ground:

hunky lumberjacks. Stop for a moment. They might bedazzle you during their fast’n furious West Coast Lumberjack Show.
mighty pig races
skateboarders from around the world battling it out in the World Free Style Skateboard Championship round-up.
the Agri-Zone with live stock on display ranging from alpacas to rabbits.
the West Fine Art Show.
many treasures on sale at the Western Trade Market.
car enthusiast’s manoeuvering their remote control cars through a challenging obstacle course.
the Kids Zone. A whole section is devoted with rides for the little ones. Single tickets for rides from $1.25, a book of 20 for $23.00. If sitting on a merry ground isn’t your child’s cup of tea (or better, lemonade) they can go for pony rides instead. Or better go karting?

Hang out at the Long Horn Saloon, the Outdoor Beer Gardens or Rodeo Beer Garden (19+). Each location offers live music throughout the day.

Live music isn’t limited to these locations only. You can find some of BC’s finest performers (including Karen Lee BC Country Music’s Female Vocalist of the Year) showcasing their talents on various outdoor stages throughout the day.

A good’ol country fair wouldn’t be complete without a few bites to eat. Everything the heart desires can be found on one of the food trucks, tents or gazebos. From award winning ribs to mac’n cheese, from espresso to lemonade. Frozen yoghurt or donuts, just make your way inside the giant food court and you will find it all.

And yes, there are enough washrooms, portable WC’s and even portable hand washing stations available.

Ah, the rodeo! If you’ve never attended a live show you need to come along. A separate entrance fee of $20.00 gives you access to the rodeo ground. Twice a day (2.30pm and 7.30pm) the best of the best are battling it out in front of the crowd.

For two hours long these brave men and women will keep you at the edge of your seat. Which cowboy will stay in the saddle for 8 long seconds? Who is going to win the barrel race?

All in all, the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair is an amazing day out for everyone. ‘Cause, who doesn’t want a bit of country in their life?