Get ready for action packed, edge-of-your-seat bull riding and barrel racing at the Virginia Beach oceanfront!
Compiled By Chris Murphy
If you find yourself walking along the Virginia Beach boardwalk on the weekend of April 24–26, 2026, don’t be surprised if you hear the sound of a country announcer and the smell of livestock mixing with the salt air. No, you haven’t taken a wrong turn toward the Blue Ridge Mountains—the Bulls and Barrels Beach Rodeo is back in town.
Part of the city’s massive Stars, Stripes, and Spurs event, this rodeo transforms the sandy shoreline at 3rd Street into a professional-grade arena. Whether you’re a die-hard rodeo fan or just a tourist looking for something “different,” here is why the 2026 Beach Rodeo is a must-see.
Pro-Level Action on the Atlantic
This isn’t just for show. The event is sanctioned by the Southern Extreme Bull Riding Association (SEBRA), meaning these cowboys and cowgirls are competing for serious points and a $12,000 purse.
The main draw remains the Extreme Bull Riding, where riders attempt to stay mounted for eight seconds on some of the most powerful bulls in the circuit. If that isn’t fast enough for you, the Barrel Racing competition showcases incredible speed and technical skill as horses navigate tight turns on a surface as unpredictable as shifting sand.
New for 2026: The “Stars, Stripes and Spurs” Experience
For 2026, the rodeo has expanded into a three-day celebration. While the main performances take place on Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26 at 3:00 PM, the surrounding boardwalk will feature live country music, local vendors, and military appreciation displays throughout the weekend.
Family Fun: Mutton Busting and Mini-Bulls
The rodeo is a hit for families. Kids can witness the IMBA Mini Bull Riding (future pros in the making) and the crowd-favorite Mutton Busting, where local youngsters try their hand at “sheep riding.” For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the Boardwalk Petting Farm and 4-H exhibits offer a chance to get up close with animals right on the concrete.
Know Before You Go
- Location: On the beach at 3rd Street.
- Dates: April 24–26, 2026. (Main Rodeo performances Saturday & Sunday at 3 PM).
- Tickets: General Admission starts around $51, with VIP packages available for $79+. VIP includes boardwalk seating, meet-and-greets with rodeo clowns, and commemorative 2026 merchandise.
- Pro-Tip: The box office opens two hours before the show, and bleachers fill up fast. Get there early to snag a spot with a view of both the arena and the ocean!
Who knew the “Wild West” could be found at the East Coast’s most famous beach? Dust off your boots (or flip-flops) and get ready for a wild ride!
Click here to read more about Bull and Barrels Beach Rodeo.
