Mutton Bustin’, Bulls and a Fiesta del Charro
The rodeo returns to Virginia City this Aug. 18 and 19 with an all-new lineup including a mutton bustin’ tournament, classic bullfighting and a Fiesta Del Charro, a full-day celebration of Mexican heritage. The Virginia City Rodeo and Fiesta Del Charro presented by Dolan Auto Group is produced by the Flying U Rodeo and the legendary Cotton Rosser, known for the Reno Rodeo and other large-scale national events.
A cattle drive down C Street, the town’s main drag, takes place Saturday, Aug. 18 leading the stars of the show to the Virginia City Arena & Fairgrounds.
Following the cattle drive, the event start is cued by a parachute jumper and the first day of a kid’s mutton bustin’ tournament beings. The top performers from Saturday have a chance to claim a golden belt buckle during Sunday’s inaugural Virginia City Mutton’ Bustin’ Tournament of Champions. All regional winners and participants are encouraged to enter.
“Each year we look to add new elements to our events and this is one example of that,” Deny Dotson, Virginia City Tourism Director, said. “There are no other mutton bustin’ style tournaments in our area so this is another unique addition to our lineup. Another new component and one we are very excited to introduce to the region, is our Fiesta Del Charro, a full Mexican-style rodeo in the heart of the Comstock.”
Other highlights on Saturday include extreme team bullfighting, bronc riding and even a children’s coin dig.
On Sunday, it’s fiesta time. The inaugural Fiesta Del Charro rodeo includes Latin traditions such as a Charro vs bucking horse competition, Charro Trick Roping and an escarmusa, a Mexican drill team.
“Hispanic culture is prominent in our area and we wanted to highlight that this year by bringing that culture to Virginia City and celebrate as one familia,” Dotson added.
Tickets are available now. General admission is $15 each for Saturday and Sunday. Seating is on a first come, first served basis so be sure to arrive early. Purchase tickets online. For more information on Virginia City visit VisitVirginiaCityNV.com or call the Virginia City Tourism Commission at 775-847-7500.
