Ride ‘em cowboy

Midwest Rodeo is coming to Fairgrounds June 11-12

There will be steer wrestling, calf roping, relay races and bull riding, along with many other traditional rodeo events June 11 and 12 at the Wayne County Fairgrounds.

The Midwest Invitational Rodeo - the top showcase of the Black cowboy/cowgirl story - will return for one weekend only and guests can experience the authentic African-American Rodeo and join in celebration of Juneteenth. Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans will participate as the Grand Marshall. 

With more than 50 years of rodeo production experience, Midwest Invitational Rodeo is a competitive traveling rodeo that showcases the top rodeo talents in the nation. 

The family-friendly event will feature activities for all ages. 

Prior to the rodeo which starts promptly at 7 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday, doors will open to the public at 3 p.m. for a festival atmosphere of food trucks, music and product and service vendors.

 The American Red Cross, Michigan State 4-H program, Wayne County Parks and many other special vendors and guests will be in attendance June 11 and June 12. 

Grounded by generations of history, the showcase celebrates African-American cowboys' meaningful contributions to the sport. 

Following the Civil War, working as a cowboy was one of the few jobs available for men of color in search of economic opportunity amidst newfound freedom. 

That said, those who did pursue this path often faced discrimination in many American towns despite their skillset being deemed equal to their white counterparts.

“The county welcomes this partnership to bring such an incredibly energetic and vibrant event back to Metro Detroit,” Evans said. “As we commemorate so many pieces of our history, from the Tulsa Massacre to Juneteenth, it's important that everyone take the time to learn the facets of our history that are usually ignored or glossed over in the textbooks and pop culture. Learning those lessons will ensure we not only avoid repeating similar mistakes, but also is a key guiding principle if we are to build a fairer, more equitable future for everyone.” 

Tickets purchased in advance are priced at $20 and $25 if purchased the day of the show. 

Children 3 and younger are admitted at no cost with an adult. 

There is a $5 parking fee.

Wayne County Fairgrounds is located at 10871 Quirk Road in Belleville. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.midwest-invitational.com or contact Midwest.Invitat ional.Rodeo@gmail.com via email.