California Rodeo Salinas postponed until October due to Shelter in Place

SALINAS, Calif. (KION) The California Rodeo Salinas announced that it will be postponing this year's event until October.

The rodeo is now scheduled for Oct. 8 to 11, and the Professional Bull Riding will happen on Oct. 7.

Organizers said that they need to order supplies, maintain the grounds and other tasks before the event that was originally scheduled for July 16 to 19, but because of a Shelter in Place order that extends at least into early May, organizers said they will not have time to prepare. They said May is one of the busiest months for volunteers.

Rodeo organizers said the event brings about $11 million into the economy in one week. That amount also includes donations to local non-profits that work during the events.

“Our hope is that regulations and guidelines related to the virus will be less restrictive in October than July, but hosting the event is still subject to pending health guidelines,” said Salinas Sports Complex General Manager Jim Slaten.

More information about tickets will be available once the COVID-19 Response Committee solidifies a plan.

When asked about the annual kickoff concert featuring Toby Keith, organizers said they were still working with the promoter on concert options.