The roping and riding that make up the 2024 edition of the Dayton Labor Day Rodeo are underway. The small Webster County city will be packed with rodeo fans all weekend.

What began more than eight decades ago as the dream of three young cowboys – Allen Porter, Duane Vegors and Vern Danielson – has grown to a four-day event that draws contestants and spectators not only from all parts of Iowa, but also from throughout the nation.

This annual event attracts 10,000 to 12,000 rodeo fans, many of whom journey every year to Webster County for this nationally recognized event. For a few action-packed days, Dayton becomes one of the busiest spots in north central Iowa. It is the focus of attention for those who love the excitement and tradition of rodeo.

The rodeo features bareback riding, steer wrestling, bull riding, tie-down roping, saddle bronc riding, team roping, a wild horse race and barrel racing. It also offers an array of top-notch entertainers. Some of the competitors are talented and much-admired local residents. Others are contenders whose names are known wherever in America cowboys gather to test their prowess.

The Dayton Labor Day Rodeo is an event sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and has become a favorite of both fans and those who travel the rodeo circuit.

The whole Dayton community works hard to make this remarkable rodeo a success. The rodeo doesn’t have a paid staff. A dedicated bunch of volunteers makes it happen every year.

Do yourself a favor this weekend – check out the Dayton Labor Day Rodeo. This is truly a thrilling and action-packed event that shouldn’t be missed.