Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo returns to Northern California July 11-12

The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo is bringing its 42nd Anniversary Legacy Tour back to Castro Valley on July 11-12 with championship rodeo events, family activities and a youth leadership workshop. The Bay Area stop also leads into a Southern California weekend as the tour highlights Black Western heritage and community outreach.

Why it matters: - The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo is the nation’s longest-running African American touring rodeo association. - The Bay Area stop extends a 42-year legacy built around preserving Black cowboy and cowgirl history through live competition, education and cultural programming. - The return to Northern California keeps a long-running Bay Area tradition alive for families, youth groups and community organizations.

What happened: - The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo will return to Northern California on Saturday, July 11, and Sunday, July 12, 2026. - Both performances begin at 2:30 p.m. at Rowell Ranch Rodeo Park in Castro Valley. - The tour is part of the organization’s 42nd Anniversary Legacy Tour. - Oakland has been one of the cornerstones of the Legacy Tour.

The details: - The rodeo features championship events including bull riding, ranch bronc riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, barrel racing and breakaway roping. - The event also includes Ladies Steer Undecorating, a signature BPIR competition. - Youth rodeo competitions will spotlight the next generation of cowboys and cowgirls. - Guests will also find food vendors, shopping, educational exhibits and family activities. - The event will include opportunities to learn about African Americans’ role in shaping the history of the American West. - Advance tickets are on sale now. - Ticket prices are $30 for children, $50 for adult general admission, $55 for reserved seating and $65 for box seats. - Groups of 20 or more can get discounted rates. - Authorized Bay Area ticket outlets include Marcus Books in Oakland, Rowell Saddlery in Castro Valley, Mississippi Catfish in El Sobrante and Relieve Cryotherapy in Antioch. - More information is available on the company’s website.

Between the lines: - The rodeo is framed as both entertainment and historical preservation, with Black Western heritage central to the event’s identity. - BPIR Foundation programming is part of the broader effort to use the rodeo platform for youth development and community outreach. - On Saturday, the Foundation will host a youth leadership workshop for more than 150 young adults with Anti-Violence Venture. - The workshop will focus on bullying prevention, emotional intelligence, leadership development and career opportunities in agriculture. - The roster of activities suggests BPIR is targeting audiences beyond rodeo fans, including families, schools and civic groups.

What's next: - After the Northern California stop, the Legacy Tour heads to the Los Angeles Soul Country Rodeo Experience. - That weekend event will be held at the Industry Hills Expo Center in the City of Industry. - BPIR will continue promoting tickets, sponsorships, vendor opportunities and group sales through Sheri Vason, Coordinator and Assistant Producer. - BPIR positions the tour as an annual national platform for championship rodeo and Black Western heritage.