The Poly Royal Rodeo will return to the Alex G. Spanos Stadium at Cal Poly in April 2026, marking its 84th annual event. The rodeo is scheduled for April 9-11 and will nearly double its audience capacity compared to recent years, allowing more spectators to attend one of the university’s longest-running traditions.
The event was previously held at Spanos Stadium from 2017 through 2019, attracting large crowds and supporting the Cal Poly Rodeo Program. After a two-year break due to COVID-19, the rodeo resumed in 2022 at the Manfred and Jean Sander Arena while Spanos Stadium underwent upgrades. With renovations now complete, organizers expect an expanded experience for both participants and attendees.
“For the past several years, we’ve been working toward returning to the larger stadium,” said Cal Poly Rodeo coach Ben Londo. “Making this move back will not only enhance the experience for spectators but also give more supporters and fans the chance to watch our students perform. These outstanding athletes embody teamwork and responsibility, and this opportunity to present their hard work on a bigger stage is truly well deserved.”
The rodeo coincides with Cal Poly’s annual Open House weekend and aligns with celebrations of the university’s 125th anniversary as well as that of its College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. The event is expected to attract college rodeo athletes from across the West Coast who will compete in events such as barrel racing, team roping, breakaway roping, tie-down roping, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, bull riding, and steer wrestling. Concerts are also planned after each performance; performers will be announced later.
Organizers stated that sponsorships, donors, and ticket sales will cover costs associated with holding the rodeo at Spanos Stadium. Last year’s rodeo drew about 3,000 attendees each night at full capacity over three nights. The stadium can seat over 11,000 guests per evening.
Tickets for the event go on sale February 11, 2026 at https://ticketscalpoly.evenue.net. Proceeds will benefit the Cal Poly Rodeo Program.
