Redefining an original kind of country at the Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair
Over 133 years, the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair has grown into one of Western Canada’s most popular events by uniquely blending rodeo traditions with a range of attractions. Sean Libin photo
Every May Long Weekend, the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair draws attendees from all around the globe to Cloverdale, B.C.
Over 133 years, the community’s cherished Country Fair has grown into one of Western Canada’s most popular events by uniquely blending rodeo traditions with a range of attractions that reflect the community’s identity. With many major Canadian events scaling back or closing altogether, what is the secret to the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair’s momentum?
Volunteer run & community focused
It starts with heart. The Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair is a volunteer-led event with over 300 volunteers. The dedicated team puts on an event that attracts over 70,000 attendees each year, making it one of the largest events in Western Canada. Together, the volunteers’ efforts generate funds that support a wide range of community programs and improvements.
An evolving professional rodeo
The Rodeo Performances are the crown jewels of the weekend’s action-packed schedule. Each year there are five pro rodeo performances, during which 96 of the world’s best cowboys and cowgirls compete for over $300,000 in prize money. Rooted in tradition, the rodeo has evolved over the years to present rodeo events that align with the community’s ever-changing identity.
Classic fair with a twist
At the Cloverdale Country Fair, timeless attractions create shared experiences that span generations. For just $12 (kids 12 and younger are free), fairgoers can explore the range of Country Fair attractions. Free entertainment includes an Indigenous Village, world-championship freestyle skateboarding, professional wrestling, lumberjack shows, extreme dog shows and a Buckaroo Barn filled with family-friendly activities. Thrill-seekers can also purchase admission to over 35 exhilarating rides and games provided by West Coast Amusements.
Fair fare from around the world
With more than 50 food choices, attendees can savour country fair favourites alongside diverse global flavours prepared by passionate members of the local restaurant community. The complete lineup of food trucks and concession stands, plus details about the Roundup Cookhouse by JRG and the ever-popular Rib Fest, are posted on the event’s Food at the Country Fair page.
Fans are never far from a unique music experience on one of the the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair’s six stages. Photo courtesy Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair
Music showcases
Renowned as a venue for both up-and-coming and iconic Canadian performers, fans are never far from a unique music experience on one of the event’s six stages. Venues range from the Lordco Outdoor Stage and the Longhorn Saloon, where headliners step into the spotlight, to the intimate Hops & Vines acoustic stage and the Indigenous Village stage.
The full list of artists and venues is available on the Country Fair’s artist lineup page.
The only way to truly understand the uniqueness of the event is to get your tickets and experience an original kind of country at the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair this May Long Weekend!