The grand tradition of the rodeo has seen some ups and downs in the long history of Llano, Texas. But in 2019 that Texas tradition is alive and well in this not-so-sleepy little town. The 84th Llano Open Pro Rodeo is set for June 7th and 8th, and it’s certain to be a wild ride! Llano is a Hill Country community that thrives on heritage and charm. We’ve brought you many stories about Llano, and by now, we hope the pattern is clear—this is a community that appreciates and celebrates its rich history and heritage.
Looking back, the first rodeo in Llano County took place in 1919 in what was once the “old picnic grounds” of the community and is now a thriving pecan orchard. The yearly tradition had a good run until floods and war brought an end to what had become a profitable pastime for the town. 1942 began a rodeo drought in Llano lasting several years as the community faced many struggles that allowed less time and money for entertainment. Fortunately, the post-war era ushered in a new vigor for life and celebration as the economy begin to recover, and 1946 was the start of a bright future for Llano. That year also gave birth to the newly reinvented Llano rodeo, this time with a homecoming celebration to boot.
Photo: Briley Mitchell/DustDevilDiver Photography
Things were taken up a notch in 2011 when the event was moved to the John L. Kuykendall Arena—a new indoor arena that pleased the audiences in an enclosed, more climate-controlled environment. The rodeo is still held there and promises space for larger and larger crowds each year.
Don’t miss out on the 2019 Llano Open Pro Rodeo & Parade. This year’s event takes place on June 7 and 8 at the John L. Kuykendall Arena. It will be the community’s 84th Llano Open Pro Rodeo! Gates open at 5:00 p.m. that Friday night with performances on both Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Mutton bustin’ will open the rodeo each night, a fan favorite that’s always a thrill ride for the little cowboys and cowgirls. Saturday also brings several exciting events including the rodeo parade that morning at 10:30 a.m., followed by barbeque courtesy of the Boy Scouts on the courthouse square. Be sure you stick around for the evening events. After the rodeo, The Ramblin’ Rose will host a dance Saturday night so bring your dancing shoes, or at least your people-watching glasses! It’s sure to be a good time!
Photo: http://www.llanochamber.org/
June 7th and 8th this year are a weekend sure to please, so don’t miss out! Llano is a community that invites guests with open arms so make your way down! Tickets are available from the Llano Chamber of Commerce. You can reach the Chamber of Commerce for more information at 325-247-5354, or find their website at www.llanochamber.org.
