The Pioneer City Rodeo was first held forty-two years ago on a baseball field in Leaverton Park. The old wooden seats purchased then held only about 3,000 spectators and the ball field lights provided illumination for the night performances. Prize money that first year was $1,500.00. After two successful years, the Pioneer City Arena was constructed. The newly developed Super Sports Lighter Floodlights were installed and to this day no better lighting has been found. The purse that year was doubled to $3,000.

Since that time, several improvements have been made to the Pioneer City Arena. Additional ground was purchased increasing the parking area. The old wooden seats have been replaced with aluminum seating providing room for more than 6,500 fans. The campground area has been added for the convenience of the fans and a few years ago, showers and new restroom facilities were added. The Palestine Chamber of Commerce, the Pioneer City Rodeo Committee, and the people of Palestine are dedicated to making our Rodeo and Labor Day Festival the best to be found. Towards that goal, we are always happy to hear the ideas and suggestions of our visitors.

In addition to the physical improvements mentioned above, the Rodeo Committee has also increased the prize money guaranteed to our cowboys and cowgirls over the years. This purse will be $14,000.00 plus added entry money. Since we are a PRCA sanctioned rodeo only professionals are allowed to compete. These professional contestants are further encouraged to compete by the offering of seven special awards to the winners of each event and the best all around cowboy.

Most of all though, the cowboys and cowgirls come to the Pioneer City Arena because they like the arena itself. Many of them will tell you it's the best.  We agree!

The Pioneer City Rodeo was chosen as the
Best Small Outdoor Rodeo
in 1993 & 1994

and as
Great Lakes Circuit Rodeo if the Year
in 1994 & 1999