For the first time in the 86 years that the Tohono O’odham Nation has held its annual rodeo and fair, admission will be free to the public.
Not only can we see top talent in today’s all-Indian rodeo compete in the Eugene P. Tashquinth Sr. Livestock Complex arena from Friday, Jan. 31-Sunday, Feb. 2, but we can also hop on the carnival rides, courtesy the nation’s Legislative Council and Tohono O’odham Nation Charman Verlon Jose.
“The rodeo and fair is an important tradition that brings us together to celebrate our culture, our history, and who we are,” Jose said in a written statement. “This action helps make the Nation’s largest community gathering more accessible for all O’odham and guests.”
The Tohono O’odham Nation Rodeo and Fair — O’odham Wapkial Ha-Taṣ is Southern Arizona’s longest-running all-Indian rodeo. Rodeo competition in the Silas Hendricks Memorial Arena will feature competitions for pros, juniors and women, as well as a wild horse race and O’odham Wapkial team roping events.
There’s also live music, a Waila contest, youth 3-on-3 basketball and a men’s basketball tournament, exhibitions and food booths, a Toka tournament and Ha’A race and food vendors.
The Eugene P. Tashquinth Sr. Livestock Complex is located three miles west of Sells on Highway 86. Beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, the rodeo parade will make its way along Main Street in Sells in honor of the nation’s first responders, educators, medical workers and tribal leaders.
Parking at the rodeo complex also will be free, courtesy of several sponsors, including Desert Diamond Casino, which has five locations, including its newest Desert Diamond White Tanks in Phoenix’s West Valley, off the Loop 303 and Northern Parkway.
For schedules and more information, visit www.tonation-nsn.gov/ton- annual-rodeo or follow along at facebook.com/TONrodeofair.
