Casper Baca Bull Riding Extraordinaire
One of the largest open bull-riding competitions in the country — Thanksgiving weekend at McGee Park Coliseum
Every Thanksgiving weekend, the McGee Park Memorial Coliseum in Farmington, New Mexico transforms into one of the premier bull-riding venues in the American West. The Casper Baca Bull Riding Extraordinaire draws approximately 100 bull riders from across the country to compete in an open-format competition that has earned a reputation as one of the biggest and most exciting bull-riding events outside the professional circuit. For fans and families, it is an unforgettable evening of eight-second rides, world-class bucking bulls, and authentic western entertainment.
About the Event
Named in honor of Casper Baca, a respected figure in San Juan County's ranching and rodeo community, this annual competition has grown from a regional gathering into a nationally recognized bull-riding event. The open format means any qualified bull rider can enter — you will see seasoned professionals alongside up-and-coming riders looking to make a name for themselves. The result is a deep, competitive field that keeps the crowd on the edge of their seats from the first ride to the last.
The event is held inside the McGee Park Memorial Coliseum, which seats more than 5,000 spectators under a covered roof. That means the show goes on regardless of late-November weather — and at 5,395 feet elevation in Farmington, November nights can be cold. The enclosed arena keeps the crowd comfortable while creating an electric atmosphere as the sound of the crowd echoes off the coliseum walls.
What to Expect
The Casper Baca Bull Riding Extraordinaire is more than a bull-riding competition. Here is what a typical event weekend includes:
- Open Bull Riding: Approximately 100 riders compete over the course of the event. Riders are scored on the standard 100-point system (50 points for the rider, 50 for the bull), and the top performers advance to a championship round. Expect to see some of the rankest bucking bulls in the Southwest.
- Bucking Bull Competition: Stock contractors bring their best bulls to compete for top bucking bull honors. These 1,500-to-2,000-pound athletes are as much a part of the show as the riders, and the crowd favorites often get the loudest cheers.
- Mutton Busting: Kids get their turn in the arena on the backs of sheep. Mutton busting is always a crowd favorite and a great way for young fans to feel like part of the action. Participants are typically ages 4 through 7 and under 60 pounds.
- Professional Rodeo Clown: A professional barrel man and rodeo clown keeps the crowd entertained between rides with comedy acts while also serving the critical role of protecting fallen riders from the bulls.
- Concessions and Vendors: Food vendors serve classic rodeo fare including Indian tacos, fry bread, burgers, roasted corn, and hot drinks. Western merchandise vendors offer buckles, hats, and gear.
Tickets & Pricing
The Casper Baca Bull Riding Extraordinaire uses tiered ticket pricing. General admission is typically available for adults, with discounted rates for youth, seniors, and military. Premium reserved seating closer to the arena floor is available at a higher price point. Children under a certain age (usually 5 or 6) are often admitted free. Exact pricing is announced each fall — check local event listings or call the McGee Park office for current-year ticket prices. Tickets are usually available at the gate on the day of the event, but arriving early is recommended for the best seats.
Getting There & Practical Tips
Parking
McGee Park offers free parking in large dirt lots surrounding the coliseum. For Thanksgiving weekend, expect the lots to fill up, so arrive at least 45 minutes before showtime to get a close spot. Overflow parking is available in adjacent fields. If you are driving a truck with a trailer, there is ample room in the outer lots.
Arrival Time
Gates typically open 60 to 90 minutes before the first ride. Arriving early gives you time to find seating, grab food from the vendors, and soak in the pre-event atmosphere. The national anthem and opening ceremonies are worth seeing — they set the tone for the evening.
What to Bring
Bring a warm jacket or blanket — even though the coliseum is covered, it is not fully heated, and November evenings in Farmington drop into the 20s and 30s. Ear protection is a good idea for young children, as the crowd noise inside the coliseum can get loud. Cash is helpful for some food vendors, though many accept cards.
Food & Drinks
Multiple food vendors set up inside and outside the coliseum. Expect Indian tacos, Navajo fry bread, green chile burgers, funnel cakes, hot chocolate, and coffee. Prices are typical for event concessions. No outside alcohol is permitted, but non-alcoholic beverages are usually allowed.
Directions from Sundowner Park
McGee Park is approximately 4 miles east of Sundowner Mobile Home & RV Park. From the park at 219 Airport Dr, turn right onto Main Street (US-64) and head east. McGee Park is on the south side of US-64 — you will see the coliseum and arena fencing on your right. The drive takes about 8 to 10 minutes depending on traffic. The route is straightforward and works well for larger vehicles.
Why Stay at Sundowner Park
Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest event weekends in Farmington, and accommodations fill up fast. Sundowner Park offers 34 full-hookup RV sites with 30/50 AMP electric, water, sewer, and free WiFi — just 4 miles from the coliseum. At $270 per week, you can enjoy the entire holiday weekend without worrying about nightly hotel rates. After the event, head back to your site, plug in, and warm up in your own rig. The park's 24-hour gym, hot showers, and laundry facilities make it easy to recharge for the next day's activities.
Between bull riding sessions, explore Farmington's other attractions: the Four Corners region offers world-class sightseeing, and Thanksgiving weekend is a beautiful time to visit Aztec Ruins (15 miles), Bisti Wilderness (35 miles), or take a scenic drive along the San Juan River. Check out the other rodeo and western events happening in the area during your visit.