GLADEWATER, Texas — Saddle up, East Texas and break out the cowboy boots because the Gladewater Round-up Rodeo is officially back.
The 87th version of the event is officially underway and CBS19 is a proud sponsor. The rodeo may be known for riding and good times, but it's also expected to rope in big bucks.
Lois Reed, executive director of the Gladewater Chamber of Commerce, said the rodeo is one of the town’s largest draws for visitors.
While the rodeo is known for bringing in big names and sell out crowds, it's also known for wrangling in dollars to the Antique Capital of East Texas.
“The Gladewater rodeo is a tradition but it's also a legend,” Reed said.
She is expecting many out-of-towners to watch the contestants battle it out.
“It is a PRCA rodeo so all of the best cowboys and cowgirls want to come to Gladewater, do their best, so that they can earn those points to help them get to the rodeo finals,” Reed said.
That means more people will be in the area eating at Gladewater restaurants, shopping at local stores and spending money.
"Anytime you can encourage people to come to the Antique Capital of East Texas and shop it definitely a winner for Gladewater,” Reed said.
Michele Stone, owner of Wild's Creek and Company in the heart of downtown Gladewater, said her business has been around for four years and always notices an uptick in sales.
“Anything that can bring foot traffic is going to bring people to spend money,” Stone said.
While business has been steady for Wild's Creek and Company, all this fun on the dirt means a big financial boost for the city.
Stone said she and other business owners alike are eager for the influx of foot traffic.
“Right now, I would just jump up and down because traffic is slow right now. Business has been a little bit slow. It's just the economy,” Stone said.
According to Rodeo Director Harold Wells, every ticket purchased means something bigger.
“This year, we have eight scholarship recipients for $1,000 each. That's the reason they started the rodeo back in 1938 is to provide extra money. It won't get you through college, but it sure is a good boost,” Wells said.
Wells said this 87-year-old family favorite is more than just about competition, it's about family traditions.
“If you come, we'll put on a good show,” Wells said. “You bring your family, bring a few dollars, and we'll have good food. We'll have good entertainment and you'll really enjoy it.”
The gates open nightly at 6 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office on the rodeo grounds. Plans for next year's rodeo are already in the works.