From the arena to the afterparty, this year’s rodeo brought together generations to honor the history and celebrate the future of Black cowboy and equestrian culture in Michigan.
With record attendance, historic firsts, and statewide impact, this year’s event laid the groundwork for something even bigger in 2026.
The Michigan Heritage Rodeo, taking place on November 20-22, 2026 at the Farm Bureau Pavilion in Lansing, Michigan celebrating the rich rodeo traditions of our community while providing a fun, educational, cultural, and family-friendly experience.
where to stay
Whether you’re booking a cozy hotel room or rolling in with your rig, we’ve locked in special rates and options to make your Michigan Heritage Rodeo stay comfortable and convenient. From our local hotel partners with complimentary breakfast to campsites at the MSU Livestock Pavilion with full amenities, plus stall rentals for your four-legged partners, check out all the lodging and camping options below and secure your spot before the deadlines!
Produced by the Best
Thyrl Latting, often considered Chicago’s original black cowboy, was the first to introduce Chicago’s inner-city kids to horsemanship. In the early 1950s, Latting competed in rodeos across the country and developed a reputation as a star horseman. He launched the Thyrl Latting Rodeo Spectacular, a black cowboy-centred rodeo, at Chicago’s International Amphitheater in 1964.
– BBC World News (bbc.com)
“The black cowboys of Chicago’s South Side”, September, 20, 2021
Sign-Up To Compete
Think you’ve got what it takes to ride with the best?
Now’s your chance to prove it. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or ready to make your debut, we’re calling all cowboys and cowgirls to compete for cash, glory, and a whole lotta bragging rights.
Join the MHR TEam
Want to be part of the action behind the scenes?
The Michigan Heritage Rodeo is now accepting volunteer sign-ups. Whether you’re helping with setup, greeting guests, or keeping things running smoothly during the event, your support helps bring this incredible community celebration to life.
Sign up today and be a part of the team that makes it all happen!
(Must be 18+ to Volunteer)
Limited edition apparel, drinkware, and heritage pieces made to celebrate the culture.
tHANK YOU LANSING!
Photos and videos coming soon! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates.
Proceeds of the event will provide underrepresented and historically marginalized youth greater exposure to equine opportunities through equestrian education, including horsemanship training and introduction to riding; exposure and support of equine academic pursuits and career training; and leadership development.
FCLTC was established in 2015 to provide a positive, safe, and structured equestrian environment for 7th graders to young adults interested in gaining equestrian knowledge. Through participation in positive youth programs, youth may reap a variety of positive developmental outcomes ranging from physical health, psychosocial development, academic achievement, mastery of skills, and reduction of risk-taking behavior. FCLTC takes this belief in youth development programming and adds another advantage, horses.
The Dream Warriors Project was developed by Transformational Victories, Inc. to assist young people in developing the character traits and leadership skills necessary to reach their full potential, create a blueprint to achieve their dreams, and make the best choices when faced with adversity and life’s overwhelming challenges. It stresses the importance of integrity, dedication and the pursuit of excellence in every endeavor.
get the recap
Want to revisit the full experience of the 2025 Michigan Heritage Rodeo? Flip through our beautifully designed official event program featuring community spotlights, historical features, sponsor shoutouts, and the full rodeo overview for the history we made together in Lansing.
📚 Click the button below to open the digital flipbook and explore the legacy.
Our Supporters
Be Part of 2026
Tickets for the 2026 Michigan Heritage Rodeo are available now. Want to be a part of it? Whether you’re a vendor, performer, sponsor, or first-time rider, we want to hear from you.
