There is always something to do and see in the city of Williams Lake. With its diverse history and heritage immersed in cowboy culture, Williams Lake is the destination for countless tourists, cowboys and cowgirls every year for their annual rodeo events. The Indoor Rodeo and the Williams Lake Stampede are just two of the many events that the city hosts each year to celebrate its ranching history and culture. Don’t miss out on the fun and excitement of a Williams Lake festival or event.
Williams Lake Stampede
In 1919, Williams Lake’s first railroad, the Great Eastern Railway, was laid to connect it to the rest of British Columbia. The railway’s development caused a rapid increase in growth and prosperity in William’s Lake, and created a central hub for cattle trading in the region. To celebrate the laying of the railroad and the fortune that followed, Williams Lake residents at the time hosted a cowboy sporting event and impromptu picnic at Williams Creek. This cowboy event eventually grew into what is today known as the Williams Lake Stampede, and is celebrated annually with the best Canadian and US cowboys and riders competing.
The Williams Lake Stampede is a true staple of what Williams Lake is all about. Held each year on the first long weekend in July, this three day event attracts professional and amateur competitors along with countless spectators from all of the country and even internationally. As one of the premiere events in the rodeo circuit, you can experience the Real West and true cowboy culture at this world famous event.
You can enjoy five different rodeo performances during the Williams Lake Stampede. The Stampede also hosts other premiere rodeo events, including Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc, Tie Down Roping, Bareback Riding, Barrel Racing, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping and the community favourite Mountain Race. Visitors and competitors also have the option of lodging on the Stampede Campgounds during their stay in their own personalized tent. Live musically performances are also showcased to make your rodeo experience that much more memorable.
The Indoor Rodeo
The annual Indoor Rodeo remains one of Williams Lake’s true forms of family entertainment. Held every year in April, the Indoor Rodeo found it start at the ranching level when the ranch hands would compete against one another and show off their skills in riding, horse breaking, cattle roping and more. The rodeo eventually evolved into the major event that it is today, with its 25th anniversary held in 2016. A major part of the community and surrounding areas, this three day event is the BC Rodeo Association’s second largest rodeo.
Held at Williams Lake’s Cariboo Memorial Arena, the Indoor Rodeo is particularly special for cowboys and cowgirls in training. Visitors and competitors can many time-honored rodeo events such as Bareback Riding and Calf Roping. Clowns and other activities are available for children to enjoy. Visitors can also enjoy a hearty pancake breakfast, live music and dancing as well as competitors competing vigorously for top cash prizes.
Contact Williams Lake Real Estate Agents!
If you’re interested in the city of Williams Lake and all that it has to offer, contact Geordie and Cindy Moore for more information about the city and how you can find excellent Williams Lake real estate.