Looking for a great low-key summer vacation with something for everyone? Look no further than Laramie Jubilee Days! Laramie Jubilee Days is one part Wild West, one part wholesome family fun, one part great music and nightlife, and 100% a perfect summer vacation destination! The 79th annual 2019 Laramie Jubilee Days promise to continue the traditional recipe for a good time!
History of Laramie Jubilee Days
Laramie Jubilee Days was first held in 1940 to commemorate the anniversary of Wyoming Statehood on July 10th, 1890. The specific events of the celebration have grown and changed over the years. Nevertheless, the spirit remains the same. This year’s celebration will be held Saturday, July 6th through Sunday, July 14th.
Wild West Excitement at Laramie Jubilee Days
Laramie is indeed the quintessential western town. Settled in the mid-1800s, Laramie was established along the Overland Trail Stageline. It was located at the western end of the Union Pacific portion of the Transcontinental Railroad. The economic activities in the area included the fur-trade, the railroad, and, of course, ranching. What better way to celebrate Laramie’s cowboy heritage than by taking in the Laramie Jubilee Days variety of rodeo events?
PRCA Rodeo Events
There are several rodeo events. However, the main rodeo events are the Mr. T Xtreme Bull Riding and the PRCA Rodeo itself. The Mr. T Xtreme Bull Riding promises heart-stopping entertainment. You will be electrified as you watch these brave cowboys from all over the country try their luck on the biggest, orneriest bulls you’ve ever seen!
The PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) Rodeo is also not to be missed! Professional rodeo cowboys (and cowgirls) from all over the country will compete in exciting events. The rodeo performances include bull riding, steer wrestling, team roping, and barrel racing, among others. Sip an ice-cold brew or sample the fare from one of the many food vendors, as you enjoy the show.
Other Rodeo Events
Can’t get enough rodeo excitement? There are plenty of other wild west festivities leading up to the primary rodeo events. Horse lovers of all ages will enjoy the Kid's Horse Show. The Ranch Rodeo provides real cowhands a chance to demonstrate their skills as they compete in a variety of events that mimic real ranch activities. Additionally, amateur bull riders from kids to young adults can test their mettle in the Junior and Miniature Bull Riding competitions. Little kids can participate in Mutton Busting—a crowd favorite and the only rodeo event that can be described as “adorable.”
For more information on all rodeo events and to purchase tickets, visit the official Laramie Jubilee Days Rodeo website.
Family-Friendly Fun
Of course, families and kids love the rodeo, but there is so much more to enjoy! Laramie Jubilee Days is rife with good, old-fashioned fun for the whole family. Indeed, the majority of Laramie Jubilee Days are designed to include kids, as well as adults. Furthermore, many of the events are free or inexpensive.
Laramie Jubilee Days Carnival
Be sure to visit the Laramie Jubilee Days Carnival. It includes all sorts of classic carnival rides, games, and food. After all, nothing says summer quite like corndogs, cotton candy, and tilt-a-whirls! It is no surprise that this event is always a favorite for kids of all ages. Armbands can be purchased on site.
Laramie Jubilee Days Parade
Don’t miss the Laramie Jubilee Days Parade on Saturday morning! Families love watching the fantastic floats, marching bands, and Jubilee Days royalty. The parade winds through Laramie’s historic downtown and down part of Grand Avenue.
Notably, this year’s theme is “150 Years of Wyoming Women’s Suffrage." In 1869, Wyoming became the first state to allow women unconditional access to the ballot. Whereas the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution would not be ratified for another 50 years. In fact, Louisa Ann Swain became the first woman in the world to vote under unconditional voting laws in Laramie in 1870.
Laramie Jubilee Days Art Fest,
Various artists, vendors, and authors will be displaying their work on the Ivinson Mansion grounds at the Laramie Plains Museum. Don’t miss this special cultural event, and the opportunity to tour the historic Ivinson Mansion for only $2.
The Ivinson Mansion is an integral piece of Laramie history. Edward and Jane Ivinson settled in Laramie in 1868. Extremely wealthy and well-respected, the Ivinsons donated much of their time and fortune to improving Laramie. They were involved in many significant philanthropic projects in town. For instance, the first school, the first hospital, and St. Matthew’s Cathedral.
The guided tours are very informative and offer a chance to explore this beautifully preserved historic mansion. Moreover, don't miss the Women’s Suffrage Exhibit in keeping with this year's parade theme.
Downtown Daytime Live Music and Other Events
Thursday afternoon through Saturday night, downtown Laramie comes alive. There will be live music, food vendors, contests, and more. You can watch live performers and enjoy great music. Or, you could do some shopping. There are a variety of unique stores downtown. Stroll through an antique store, check out unique art at one of the galleries, or stop into the western store. At any rate, new cowboy boots are a must.
Make sure to check out the Jalapeno Eating Contest—it’s too hot to miss. Other events include the Betty Kiser Memorial Chili Cookoff, the Laramie Jubilee Days Pancake Breakfast, and the Albany County Cattlewomen BBQ. There is also a dramatic gunfight reenactment on the streets of downtown Laramie.
In addition to the Jubilee Days events, Laramie has two wonderful farmer’s markets. The Thursday Local Market and the Downtown Laramie Farmer’s Market feature incredible artisans, food vendors, and delicious fresh produce. For more information on these and other events, please visit our website.
Entertainment for Adults
Not into Jubilee Days for the family time? No worries! Downtown Laramie also offers plenty to entertain adults, sans kids.
60th Anniversary Reunion of Laramie TV Show
This is a special event for anyone who remembers the classic western TV show, Laramie. Actors Robert Fuller, Bobby Crawford, and Dennis Holmes will be in Laramie July 12th through the 14th for a series of events commemorating the hit series of the ’50s and ’60s. For details see visitlaramie.org.
Downtown Evening Live Music
When the sun goes down (Thursday through Saturday), downtown Laramie kicks up its boots to great music. Each evening there is a line-up of talented Have dinner at one of the downtown area's several fine restaurants. Afterward, dance to country swing. Or, just watch and enjoy an adult beverage. If you’re wondering where to find the best drinks in town, be sure to read On the Trail: Mike and Ike’s Excellent Beer Adventure.
Downtown Laramie Brew Fest
Undoubtedly one of the most popular Jubilee Days events is Brew Fest. Brew Fest brings together the best of incredible beer, mouth-watering food, and epic music. Spend Saturday afternoon lounging on the lush grass of the historic Depot Park sipping ice cold beer, indulging in great food, and listening to live music. What could be better? Tickets can be purchased in advance here.
To be sure, there is something for anyone and everyone at Laramie Jubilee Days. Come for the week and enjoy a unique and memorable western experience in a true frontier town. Laramie Jubilee Days brings all the best of the old west to the present. Don’t miss this exceptional experience in an unforgettable western town.
For more information on Laramie or planning your trip during Jubilee Days, please visit our website.
Note: Leah Veinbergs is an independent writer and the author of the blog Two Little Time. She is contracted by Visit Laramie. Views and opinions expressed here are her own and do not reflect those of the Albany County Tourism Board.
