Westerner Park Announces the Return of Professional Rodeo to Red Deer

November 28, 2025

Westerner Park is proud to announce the return of professional rodeo to Red Deer with the launch of the Red Deer Pro Rodeo, taking place May 21 to 23, 2026, at the Marchant Crane Centrium. This new event marks an important milestone for the region and brings rodeo energy back to a community that has long celebrated its western heritage and its connection to the sport.

As one of the first professional rodeos on the 2026 circuit, the Red Deer Pro Rodeo is positioned to draw top rodeo athletes and strong fan support early in the season. The event builds on Central Alberta’s deep roots in western culture and its reputation as a proud and knowledgeable rodeo community.

Westerner Park CEO Shelly Flint says the decision to bring rodeo back was shaped directly by community feedback. “Over the last few years, we have listened closely to our community, our partners, and our guests,” says Flint. “And what we heard was clear. Central Alberta is ready for something bold, electric, and uniquely ours. There has been a space in the spirit of the region waiting for the kind of energy and excitement that only rodeo brings. Today, we are proud to respond to that passion by bringing a professional rodeo back to Red Deer, built with our community and for our community.

The Red Deer Pro Rodeo has been designed to honour the traditions of rodeo while creating an event that reflects Central Alberta’s identity. Rodeo Committee Lead Scott Wyzykoski says the committee’s focus has been on building an event that feels authentic and true to the region. “This is not about reinventing the sport, it is about bringing it home,” he says. “Red Deer has always been a rodeo city. The fans get loud, they show up, and they know the sport. The athletes feel that. We are bringing back a pro rodeo that fits this community, honours its roots, and has the staying power to grow year after year.”

Canadian Professional Rodeo Association CEO Denny Phipps expressed strong support for the event.
“We are so excited to have a rodeo in Red Deer early in our season. This event will be one that helps contestants get a jump start on the year, and with the deep rodeo history in Central Alberta, we look forward to seeing large crowds as we roll into the summer.”

Westerner Park also acknowledges the meaningful contributions of Principal Donors John and Heather Donald, whose generosity has supported the launch of the Red Deer Pro Rodeo and reflects their continued commitment to strengthening Central Alberta’s event landscape.

The Red Deer Pro Rodeo is also made possible through the support of early partners and founding sponsors who stepped forward to help bring this event to life.

Founding Sponsors:

• Kipp Scott GMC Buick
• Marshall Construction
• DaveX Construction
• Bettensons Sand and Gravel Co. Ltd
• Devereaux Properties / Century 21
• Tourism Red Deer
• Howell’s Excavating Ltd.
• Loewen Legacy Homes
• Q2 Artificial Lift Services
• Timber Wolf Truss
• Wolf Creek Building Supplies
• Empringham Disposal
• Fortis Alberta

• Speedpro Signs
• Tar-ific Construction Ltd.
• Cobijar Consulting Co. Ltd.
• Central Alberta Co-op
• Four Star Drywall
• True-line Homes
• Summit Strategies
• Bo’s Bar & Grill
• Triple A Electric Ltd.

Ian Allan, General Manager, Business and Event Services, Westerner Park, says the support from the community has been clear from the start. “From day one, people have shared how much they wanted to see a major rodeo return to Red Deer. This event is being built for the athletes, for the fans, and for the region. Red Deer understands rodeo, and the energy here is something special. That support is what will make this event stand out.”

To keep the excitement going throughout the weekend, Westerner Park will host a nightly Music Cabaret in the adjacent pavilion following each rodeo performance. The cabarets are designed to extend the visitor experience, encourage overnight stays, and create a festival atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of Central Alberta.

The Red Deer Pro Rodeo will run May 21 to 23, 2026, at the Marchant Crane Centrium. Full event schedules and additional details will be released early in 2026. Tickets will be available through TicketsAlberta.com.

Check out www.reddeerprorodeo.ca