Eastern Oregon Livestock Show: Where Tradition Meets Competition in Union, Oregon
When the summer sun begins to warm the rolling hills of Eastern Oregon, the small town of Union transforms into a bustling hub of western heritage and rodeo excitement. The Eastern Oregon Livestock Show (EOLS), a cornerstone event sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), returns to the historic EOLS grounds on June 6-8, 2025, continuing a cherished tradition that has drawn competitors and spectators from across the Northwest for generations.
A Legacy of Western Excellence
The Eastern Oregon Livestock Show stands as one of the region's most enduring celebrations of ranching culture and rodeo sport. Nestled in the picturesque Grande Ronde Valley, this event has become more than just a competition—it's a homecoming for many, a family tradition passed down through generations, and a showcase of the skills that built the American West.
"What makes the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show special is how it honors our western heritage while providing world-class rodeo action," says the event's coordinator. "When cowboys and cowgirls enter the EOLS arena, they're becoming part of a storied tradition that connects today's competitors with those who rode here decades ago."
The 2025 edition promises to deliver approximately $45,000 in prize money across its PRCA-sanctioned events, drawing top talent from the Columbia River Circuit and beyond. As a qualifying event for the circuit finals, competitors will bring their A-game to this early summer showdown.
Where Champions Are Made
The heart of any PRCA rodeo is its competitive events, and the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show delivers with a full slate of action across three adrenaline-packed days. Spectators can expect edge-of-your-seat thrills in all seven standard events:
Roughstock Events:
- Bareback Riding: Witness the ultimate test of balance and strength as riders grip a simple handhold while their broncs twist, turn, and launch skyward.
- Saddle Bronc Riding: Often called rodeo's classic event, this display of technical horsemanship combines control and wildness in perfect measure.
- Bull Riding: The event that brings crowds to their feet—1,800 pounds of raw power beneath a cowboy determined to make the 8-second whistle.
Timed Events:
- Tie-Down Roping: A showcase of precision and teamwork between horse and rider as they chase down, rope, and tie a calf in mere seconds.
- Steer Wrestling: The "big man's event" where cowboys leap from horseback to wrestling a steer to the ground—a true display of timing and courage.
- Team Roping: The only true team event in rodeo, where header and heeler must work in perfect coordination to rope a steer's horns and heels.
- Barrel Racing: Women's rodeo at its finest, as talented cowgirls and their quarter horses navigate the cloverleaf pattern with blazing speed and precision.
Beyond the PRCA competition, the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show stays true to its agricultural roots with comprehensive livestock exhibitions featuring the region's finest cattle, horses, sheep, and swine. These shows highlight the ranching foundation that supports rodeo culture and provides a valuable educational component for visitors of all ages.
More Than Just Rodeo
While the arena action forms the centerpiece of the weekend, the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show delivers a complete festival atmosphere that extends beyond the grandstands. The traditional parade through downtown Union kicks off the festivities, with decorated floats, equestrian units, and community groups celebrating western heritage.
Throughout the grounds, visitors can explore vendor booths featuring western wear, handcrafted items, and regional specialties. The carnival provides entertainment for younger guests, while evening concerts keep the energy high after the day's competition concludes.
"What many first-time visitors don't realize is that the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show is really a complete community celebration," explains a longtime volunteer. "You might come for the rodeo, but you'll stay for everything else happening around the grounds. It's three days where Union really shows its heart."
Securing Your Spot at the Action
For rodeo fans planning their summer calendar, the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show should be circled in red. Tickets for this popular event will go on sale April 6, 2025—exactly two months before opening day—and will be available for purchase directly through this website when sales launch.
Ticket Options:
The EOLS offers flexible ticketing to accommodate different budgets and schedules:
Single Performance Tickets: Choose your preferred day to experience the full rodeo performance.
- Adult: $20
- Senior (65+): $15
- Children (6-12): $10
- Children under 6: Free with paid adult admission
Weekend Passes: The best value for experiencing all three days of competition.
- Adult: $50
- Senior: $40
- Children: $25
VIP Packages: Limited availability premium experience including:
- Prime reserved seating
- Exclusive hospitality area access
- Commemorative program
- Behind-the-scenes tour
- VIP parking
- Price: $120 per person
Seating Options:
The historic EOLS arena offers two primary seating categories:
Reserved Seating: Secure your specific seat location in the covered grandstand sections. These numbered seats provide optimal viewing and protection from sun or occasional showers. Reserved seats typically sell out weeks before the event.
General Admission: Perfect for flexible schedules and budget-conscious fans. These sections offer good views of the action at a lower price point, but seating is first-come, first-served.
"We always recommend purchasing tickets early, especially for Saturday night's performance, which traditionally sells out," advises the ticket manager. "The online purchase option through our website is the most convenient way to secure your seats when sales open on April 6."
For those preferring traditional purchase methods, tickets will also be available by phone at (541) 562-5129 or in person at select local retailers throughout Union County starting April 6. Additionally, the EOLS ticket office will open on-site beginning June 1, 2025, for in-person sales, will-call pickup, and to address any ticketing questions.
All performances are held rain or shine, with the covered grandstands providing protection from the elements. The EOLS maintains a no-refund policy, but tickets may be exchanged for a different performance if available, subject to a small service fee.
The Competitors: Rodeo's Finest
The Eastern Oregon Livestock Show has long been a favorite stop for competitors on the Columbia River Circuit. Its early June timing provides a perfect opportunity for cowboys and cowgirls to earn crucial points toward circuit standings and the National Finals Rodeo qualification.
Past champions have included some of rodeo's most recognized names, and the 2025 edition promises to continue that tradition of excellence. While the final competitor list won't be confirmed until closer to the event, fans can expect to see a mix of established stars and rising talents testing their skills in Union's historic arena.
"This rodeo has always attracted quality competitors because of its reputation for good stock and fair competition," notes a PRCA official. "The Columbia River Circuit has some of the toughest talent in rodeo, and they show up ready to compete at Eastern Oregon."
The livestock athletes deserve equal billing with their human counterparts. The EOLS partners with premier stock contractors who provide championship-caliber bucking horses and bulls that challenge even the most seasoned competitors. These carefully bred and trained animals are athletes in their own right, selected for their ability to test a rider's skill while providing the spectacular action fans expect.
Community Impact and Involvement
Perhaps what truly distinguishes the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show is its deep integration with the community it serves. For over a century, this event has been more than entertainment—it's been a vehicle for community development, agricultural education, and youth opportunity.
The show's scholarship program supports local students pursuing higher education, particularly those interested in agriculture, animal science, and related fields. Throughout the year, EOLS committees work with 4-H and FFA programs to foster the next generation of agricultural leaders.
During the event itself, numerous local organizations benefit from volunteer opportunities and fundraising activities. From the Lions Club breakfast to the FFA concession stand, community groups find ways to support their causes while contributing to the show's success.
Local businesses throughout Union County see significant economic impact during the three-day event, with hotels, restaurants, and shops welcoming visitors from across the region. This economic boost represents an important annual injection into the local economy.
"When you purchase a ticket to the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show, you're not just buying admission to a great rodeo," explains a board member. "You're investing in the community and helping preserve a tradition that defines this region."
Planning Your Visit
For those traveling to Union for the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show, planning ahead ensures the best experience. The small town's accommodations fill quickly, so early reservations at local hotels or the designated RV camping areas are strongly recommended.
The EOLS grounds are located at 760 East Delta Street in Union, with ample parking available on-site for a nominal fee. Many visitors choose to make a weekend of it, exploring the natural beauty of Northeast Oregon before or after attending the rodeo performances.
Morning performances typically begin at 11:00 AM, while evening events start at 7:00 PM. A detailed schedule of specific competitions will be posted closer to the event date.
Join the Tradition
As the calendar turns toward June 2025, the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show stands ready to write another chapter in its storied history. From the thundering hooves of the grand entry to the final bull ride on Sunday afternoon, this PRCA-sanctioned event delivers authentic western action in a setting rich with tradition.
Mark your calendar for April 6, when tickets become available right here on this website. Whether you're a longtime fan or experiencing your first rodeo, the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show promises memories that will last long after the final chute opens.
In the words of a longtime announcer: "There's nothing quite like rodeo in Union—where the competition is fierce, the welcome is warm, and western heritage comes alive for three unforgettable days."
The Eastern Oregon Livestock Show runs June 6-8, 2025, at the EOLS grounds in Union, Oregon. PRCA-sanctioned with $45,000 in prize money. Tickets available April 6, 2025.