Emerald Coast Rodeo

Dust off your cowboy or cowgirl boots and get ready for two nights of high-energy rodeo action as the Emerald Coast Rodeo rides into Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) Niceville Campus on Nov. 7 and 8, 2025. The Emerald Coast Rodeo is proudly presented in partnership with 3R Rodeo Company and Professional Cowboys Association (PCA).

 

Just like college life, rodeo is all about grit, determination, and embracing the ride of a lifetime. Get ready to kick up some dirt at this heart-pounding event packed with bucking bulls, fast horses, and nonstop excitement—an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages!

 

“The Emerald Coast Rodeo will bring our community together while showcasing the energy, excellence and spirit of Northwest Florida State College,” said President Mel Ponder, Northwest Florida State College. “Whether you're a lifelong rodeo fan or experiencing it for the first time, it will be a night to remember—filled with excitement, tradition, and a strong sense of community.”

 

Rodeo events challenge contestants' strength, skill, and courage, typically falling into two categories: timed events and rough stock events.

 

Timed events include:

• Calf Roping (Tie-Down Roping): Competitors rope a calf, dismount, and tie three of its legs together as quickly as possible.

• Team Roping: Two riders work together; one ropes the calf’s head, and the other ropes its legs.

• Steer Wrestling: Also known as bulldogging, the rider jumps off their horse onto a steer and wrestles it to the ground.

• Barrel Racing: Predominantly a women’s event, it involves racing around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels the fastest.

• Breakaway Roping: Similar to calf roping, but the rope is tied lightly to the saddle horn and breaks away when the calf is roped.

 

Rough stock events include:

• Bull Riding: Riders try to stay on a bucking bull for eight seconds using only one hand on a rope tied around the bull.

• Saddle Bronc Riding: Riders use a specialized saddle and attempt to stay on a bucking horse for eight seconds.

• Bareback Bronc Riding: Similar to saddle bronc, but riders use a rigging similar to a suitcase handle instead of a saddle.

 

The entertainment doesn’t stop with the main events. Rumor has it that Mutton Bustin’ is making a comeback too! This fan-favorite event gives young riders a fun, safe, and exciting rodeo experience as they hold on tight for the ride of their lives.

 

Don’t miss out! Purchase tickets online now at emeraldcoastrodeo.com or at the gate. 

 

For event details, and updates, visit and follow: Emerald Coast Rodeo.

 

For sponsorship opportunities and media credentials email: rodeo@nwfsc.edu.