SunDome Showdown: PRCA's Premier Winter Rodeo Returns to Yakima

The heart of Washington state will once again thunder with the sound of hooves and roars of the crowd as the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association brings the SunDome Showdown to Yakima this February.

When winter grips the Pacific Northwest, most folks hunker down by the fireplace—but not rodeo fans. For them, February means it's time for the SunDome Showdown, one of the Columbia River Circuit's most anticipated early-season events. Mark your calendars for February 14-15, 2025, as the Yakima Valley SunDome transforms into an arena of western heritage and world-class competition.

A Valentine's Weekend of Rodeo Action

There's no better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with the perfect combination of adrenaline, western tradition, and top-tier PRCA competition. The SunDome Showdown has established itself as a cornerstone event in the Columbia River Circuit, drawing competitors eager to build momentum early in the 2025 season.

"The SunDome Showdown has become a staple in our winter schedule," says PRCA Commissioner Allen Montgomery. "It gives our contestants a chance to earn crucial points toward the Columbia River Circuit Finals and provides fans with an incredible indoor rodeo experience during a time when outdoor events simply aren't possible in the Northwest."

Aces Wild Pro Rodeo returns as the primary stock contractor, bringing their exceptional pen of bucking horses and bulls that have become fan favorites over the years. Supplemented by stock from Brad Goodrich and Big Bend Rodeo, competitors will face some of the best animal athletes in the business.

Defending Champions Look to Repeat

Last year's SunDome Showdown saw impressive performances across all events, with several competitors looking to defend their titles in 2025.

All-around cowboy Travis Eller walked away with $1,815 in earnings between tie-down roping and team roping in 2024. In the bareback riding, Ty Owens claimed the championship with an impressive 80.5-point ride on Aces Wild Pro Rodeo's Tiki Torch.

The steer wrestling saw Justin Kimsey stop the clock at 4.8 seconds to take home the buckle, while the team roping title went to Quincy Crum and Daniel Martin with a swift 5.0-second run.

Ryan Verling dominated the saddle bronc riding with an 81-point performance aboard Aces Wild Pro Rodeo's Leeroy, and Justin Farber claimed the tie-down roping championship with a time of 8.1 seconds.

On the women's side, Lacy Diefenbach navigated the cloverleaf pattern in 12.60 seconds to win the barrel racing. The bull riding championship went to Caleb McMillan, who posted an 80-point ride on Big Bend Rodeo's High Noon—the only competitor to make the 8-second whistle with a qualified score above 70 points.

Seven Events, Two Days, Endless Excitement

The SunDome Showdown features all seven traditional PRCA events, showcasing the full spectrum of rodeo skills:

Bareback Riding: Often described as "riding a hurricane," bareback riders grip a rigging with one hand while their free arm cannot touch the horse. Points are awarded for both the rider's technique and the horse's performance.

Steer Wrestling: Also known as "bulldogging," this event requires cowboys to leap from horseback onto a running steer, using strength and leverage to bring the animal to the ground. Speed is everything, with times often under five seconds.

Team Roping: The only true team event in rodeo pairs a header (who ropes the steer's horns) with a heeler (who ropes the hind legs). Precision and coordination between the ropers make this event a crowd favorite.

Saddle Bronc Riding: Considered rodeo's classic event, saddle bronc riding evolved directly from ranch work. Riders must maintain control with a specific spurring motion while holding a single rein attached to the horse's halter.

Tie-Down Roping: This event showcases skills essential to working cowboys. After roping a calf from horseback, the competitor dismounts, runs to the calf, and ties three legs together while the horse keeps the rope taut.

Barrel Racing: In this women's event, competitors race against the clock, guiding their horses through a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. Every hundredth of a second counts, with penalties assessed for knocked-over barrels.

Bull Riding: Known as "the most dangerous eight seconds in sports," bull riders attempt to stay aboard a spinning, bucking bull with only a flat braided rope for support. The event combines danger, courage, and controlled chaos.

Beyond the Competition: A Full Entertainment Experience

The SunDome Showdown isn't just about the competition—it's a complete western experience. The event kicks off each night with a spectacular Grand Entry featuring flag bearers, specialty acts, and an introduction of the competitors.

Throughout the performance, rodeo clowns and bullfighters will keep the crowd entertained while ensuring competitor safety. The event's announcer, Steve Kenyon, returns to guide spectators through the action with his signature blend of educational commentary and entertainment.

Between events, fans can enjoy western-themed music directed by Riley McMillan and marvel at specialty acts that showcase the diverse talents within the rodeo community.

Secure Your Seats: Ticket Information

Don't miss your chance to experience the excitement of the 2025 SunDome Showdown! Tickets go on sale December 14, 2024, right here on this page.

The Yakima Valley SunDome offers excellent viewing from every seat, but different seating options provide unique experiences:

VIP Premium Seating: $75 per person

• Prime location seats in the first 10 rows
• Exclusive access to the Buckaroo Lounge with complimentary appetizers
• Commemorative SunDome Showdown program
• Early entry one hour before general admission

Reserved Seating: $45 per person

• Guaranteed seat in sections 11-25
• Access to all concessions and vendor areas

General Admission: $30 adults, $20 children (ages 3-12)

• Seating in upper-level sections
• First-come, first-served basis

Family Pack: $95

• Includes 2 adult and 2 child general admission tickets
• 2 commemorative programs
• 4 concession vouchers ($5 value each)

Special Discounts:

• Military/First Responders: $5 off any ticket with valid ID
• Seniors (65+): $5 off any ticket
• Groups of 10+: 10% discount on total purchase

When tickets become available on December 14, you'll have multiple purchase options:

• Online through this website (preferred method)
• By phone at (509) 555-RODE
• In person at the Yakima Valley SunDome box office (Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm)

For the best selection, we recommend purchasing tickets early. The SunDome Showdown has sold out for the past three years, particularly for the Saturday night performance.

The Perfect Venue: Yakima Valley SunDome

The Yakima Valley SunDome provides an ideal setting for winter rodeo action. With a seating capacity of approximately 7,500, the venue offers excellent sightlines from every section. The climate-controlled environment ensures comfort regardless of the February weather outside.

Ample parking surrounds the venue ($10 per vehicle), with designated accessible parking areas for those with disabilities. The SunDome is fully ADA compliant, with accessible seating options available in all price categories.

Inside, concession stands offer traditional arena fare alongside local specialties. The vendor marketplace features western apparel, jewelry, artwork, and rodeo merchandise—perfect for Valentine's Day shopping between events.

Community Impact and Charitable Partnerships

The SunDome Showdown isn't just about entertainment—it's about strengthening the community. The event partners with the Yakima Valley Cowboys Association to support their scholarship fund for local students pursuing agricultural education.

Friday night's performance will feature the "Tough Enough to Wear Pink" initiative, raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research. Attendees are encouraged to wear pink, with $1 from each ticket sold that night donated to the Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital's breast cancer program.

The rodeo also provides a significant economic boost to the region during the typically slower winter tourism season. Local hotels, restaurants, and businesses all benefit from the influx of competitors and spectators.

Join the Tradition

As the PRCA continues to preserve western heritage while showcasing modern athletic excellence, events like the SunDome Showdown represent the perfect blend of tradition and competition. Whether you're a longtime rodeo enthusiast or experiencing your first bucking bronc, the SunDome Showdown offers something for everyone.

"What makes the SunDome Showdown special is the atmosphere," says event coordinator Michelle Ramirez. "There's an electricity in the air when you combine top PRCA talent, quality stock, and passionate Northwest rodeo fans under one roof."

Mark your calendars for February 14-15, 2025, and be ready when tickets go on sale December 14, 2024. The SunDome Showdown isn't just a rodeo—it's a celebration of western culture, athletic excellence, and community spirit that defines the PRCA experience.

For more information, visit aceswildprorodeo.com or follow the SunDome Showdown on social media for contestant announcements, behind-the-scenes content, and special promotions.

The SunDome Showdown is sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and is a qualifying event for the Columbia River Circuit Finals.