There’s something timeless about the smell of hay and dust in the summer air, the distant bellow of cattle, and the steady rhythm of boots on dirt. Next week will mark the beginning of Chaffee County Fair week, and the whole community seems to swell with excitement and pride as the fairgrounds come alive with tradition, grit, and heart.

Every year, the fair offers a little bit of everything—from open class judging of florals and produce to swine shows, mechanical bull rides, and the electrifying CPRA Rodeo. But this year, something feels different. Watching the rodeo from the stands, I will see it all through new eyes, because of who I get to share it with.

Rodeo Nights & Childhood Dreams

Growing up, I spent time in Gunnison visiting my grandparents, where long summer days were filled with the freedom only a place like “Camp Bachmann” could offer. I rode horses through their property, played cowgirl in tall grasses, and dreamed of someday chasing rodeo dreams. I thought maybe—maybe-I’d ride barrels under bright arena lights one day.

But life had other plans. Somewhere along the way, I developed a horse allergy. A cruel twist for a little girl who wanted nothing more than to gallop freely under Colorado skies. Though my days in the saddle faded, my love for the rodeo never did. And now, every year when the Chaffee County Fair returns, I feel that childhood flicker again.

A Week of Western Wonder

This year’s fair schedule is packed with small-town charm and showstopping events. It kicks off on Friday, July 25, 2025 and runs all week long, commencing on Sunday, August 3, 2025, with a 10:00am Cowboy Church service. 

More Than Just a Show

This year, as I plan to watch the cowboys ride and the dust kick up under a brilliant Chaffee County sunset, I believe I will feel something deeper. Maybe it's the nostalgia—those golden days in Gunnison. Or maybe it is just sitting beside someone who helps me appreciate the rhythm and reverence of this place even more.

There’s something special about small-town rodeos: the pride of 4-H kids, the reverence for the animals, the community that gathers year after year. It's not just about bulls and broncs—it’s about connection, memory, and holding space for all the versions of yourself who once dreamed of being here.

So here’s to dust in your boots, cowgirl dreams, and seeing old things in a new way.

And if you need a new outfit for the rodeo check out the Rodeo Collection at The View Cafe and Gifts!

See you in the stands, 

Sammi