The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, held each summer at the Industry Hills Expo Center in City of Industry, California, is far more than a thrilling western spectacle—it's a vibrant celebration of Black cowboy heritage and culture. Named after legendary Black cowboy Bill Pickett (credited with inventing bulldogging), this “Greatest Show on Dirt” has been touring nationally since 1984 and brings the historic contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls into the spotlight. CLICK HERE TO VISIT THEIR SITE!
A Cultural Heritage Rodeo The BPIR isn't your typical rodeo. It's a rich blend of bareback riding, bronc and bull riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, breakaway and barrel racing, featuring top Black athletes from across America . However, its most powerful moments often come before the action begins—opening ceremonies honor the legacy of Black ranching pioneers by carrying both the American flag and the African-American flag into the arena, followed by performances of the Black national anthem and “America the Beautiful” through a unique cultural lens
The above design "COWBOY SWAG" T-Shirts are available. (Click Photo to purchase.)
Why It Matters in City of Industry, CA The show returns to the SoCal stage—Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon in mid‑July—drawing packed, enthusiastic audiences year after year. In 2024 both nights sold out, underscoring local love for its mix of family-friendly excitement, community pride, and Western education . Families and school groups attend in droves. The Foundation emphasizes affordability and group-friendly pricing to educate children and adults alike about Black Western heritage culture.
Highlights from the Arena Heart-pounding rodeo competitions: from bronc and bull riding to calf roping, breakaway, and barrel racing for both kids and adults . Intergenerational talent: see young riders—sometimes just 12 years old—competing alongside seasoned contenders, showcasing the next generation of cowboy culture. Historical tribute includes: spotlight on trailblazers like Stephanie Haynes, stagecoach icons, and other heroes whose stories decorated the BPIR Traveling Museum.
Attending This Year Dates & Venue , Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM Sunday July 20, 2025 at 3:30 PM at the Industry Hills Expo Center, 16200 Temple Ave, City of Industry, CA Ticket Info Adults: $45 advance Kids: $30 advance Premium Arena Seats: $75 (limited availability) Group rates available for parties of 20+, and most shows sell out fast. Admission Rules Expect typical venue restrictions: no large food containers or drinks, no professional cameras without clearance, no alcohol or weapons, and no umbrellas.
The above design "BLACK SADDLE" is available on T-Shirts (Click Photo to purchase)
Leaving With More Than Memories Yes, the rodeo thrills—but the real magic lies in its cultural resonance. Every thunderous gallop and triumphant rider is a testament to overlooked contributions: Black cowboys were estimated to be about 25% of the historic cattle-driving workforce—yet their stories have been erased until events like BPIR brought them back to life.
Do you enjoy Rodeo Culture? Here some RELATED PRODUCTS you may like. (Links Provided by Amazon Associates.) As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
A VISIT TO THE BILL PICKETT INVITATIONAL RODEO - CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA
by D. MARQUIS
Jul 6
Photos by D. Marquis
The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, held each summer at the Industry Hills Expo Center in City of Industry, California, is far more than a thrilling western spectacle—it's a vibrant celebration of Black cowboy heritage and culture. Named after legendary Black cowboy Bill Pickett (credited with inventing bulldogging), this “Greatest Show on Dirt” has been touring nationally since 1984 and brings the historic contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls into the spotlight. CLICK HERE TO VISIT THEIR SITE!
A Cultural Heritage Rodeo The BPIR isn't your typical rodeo. It's a rich blend of bareback riding, bronc and bull riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, breakaway and barrel racing, featuring top Black athletes from across America . However, its most powerful moments often come before the action begins—opening ceremonies honor the legacy of Black ranching pioneers by carrying both the American flag and the African-American flag into the arena, followed by performances of the Black national anthem and “America the Beautiful” through a unique cultural lens
The above design "COWBOY SWAG" T-Shirts are available. (Click Photo to purchase.)
GET IT GIRL #1
by itsallarts
Why It Matters in City of Industry, CA The show returns to the SoCal stage—Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon in mid‑July—drawing packed, enthusiastic audiences year after year. In 2024 both nights sold out, underscoring local love for its mix of family-friendly excitement, community pride, and Western education . Families and school groups attend in droves. The Foundation emphasizes affordability and group-friendly pricing to educate children and adults alike about Black Western heritage culture.
VISIT THEIR SITE FOR TICKET INFO AND PRICING.
Highlights from the Arena Heart-pounding rodeo competitions: from bronc and bull riding to calf roping, breakaway, and barrel racing for both kids and adults . Intergenerational talent: see young riders—sometimes just 12 years old—competing alongside seasoned contenders, showcasing the next generation of cowboy culture. Historical tribute includes: spotlight on trailblazers like Stephanie Haynes, stagecoach icons, and other heroes whose stories decorated the BPIR Traveling Museum.
Attending This Year Dates & Venue , Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM Sunday July 20, 2025 at 3:30 PM at the Industry Hills Expo Center, 16200 Temple Ave, City of Industry, CA Ticket Info Adults: $45 advance Kids: $30 advance Premium Arena Seats: $75 (limited availability) Group rates available for parties of 20+, and most shows sell out fast. Admission Rules Expect typical venue restrictions: no large food containers or drinks, no professional cameras without clearance, no alcohol or weapons, and no umbrellas.
VISIT THEIR SITE
The above design "BLACK SADDLE" is available on T-Shirts (Click Photo to purchase)
Leaving With More Than Memories Yes, the rodeo thrills—but the real magic lies in its cultural resonance. Every thunderous gallop and triumphant rider is a testament to overlooked contributions: Black cowboys were estimated to be about 25% of the historic cattle-driving workforce—yet their stories have been erased until events like BPIR brought them back to life.
Do you enjoy Rodeo Culture? Here some RELATED PRODUCTS you may like.
(Links Provided by Amazon Associates.) As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
BEAUTIFUL HORSE #1
by itsallarts