The California Rodeo Salinas is back in town this week, loaded with traditions and new additions.

This year’s rodeo marks the 115th anniversary of the event — it’s been held every year since 1911, with the exception of 2020. The rodeo is considered one of the top 15 professional rodeos in the United States and the largest in California. This year’s rodeo will feature trick riders, mutton busting, barrel racing and more traditional events.

The rodeo is a nonprofit organization and funds from its yearly events and fundraising efforts are distributed to local nonprofits and western lifestyle and industry organizations. Last year, nearly $800,000 was donated to local groups. The rodeo also offers annual scholarships to local students involved in its volunteer programs — in 2025, $30,000 was distributed between six students.

The yearly carnival opened July 11 and will run through July 20, the last day of the rodeo. The Big Week Bull Riding events are Wednesday from 7 p.m.-9 p.m.

The event features top bull riders testing their skills in an area close to the main grandstand. The bull riding event will also be part of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Xtreme Bulls Tour this year. The end of the event will be marked with fireworks. Tickets for the Xtreme Bulls event are still available, ranging from $46-$76.

This year, the rodeo announced a new off-site parking and shuttle program to help with challenges in parking due to ongoing growing attendance.

Starting Wednesday with the Big Week bull riding, guests can park free at 1440 Constitution Blvd. and hop on a shuttle to the Salinas Sports Complex. The ride from the free parking to the complex is 15 minutes, and the shuttle runs every 15 minutes.

On Wednesday-Friday, the shuttle will run from 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

“This new program is about improving the guest experience and managing growth responsibly,” said Mandy Linquist, marketing manager for the California Rodeo Salinas in a news release. “We’re excited to offer this free and convenient option for our fans.”

On-site parking at the sports complex will still be available on a first-come, first-served basis with an increased fee of $30 per vehicle.

The theme of Thursday night’s performance is “Bucking Cancer,” meant to spread awareness for all types of cancer. Friday will be Ag appreciation night, Saturday is “Salute to Military Day” and Sunday will be “Crown Royal Day of Champions.” Tickets range from $26-$45.

Tickets can be purchased in-person at the ticket office or online. For more information, visit https://www.carodeo.com/p/tickets.