It’s as American as apple pie, and it’s probably the most widely observed of our local traditions.

The Ute Mountain Roundup Rodeo is a summer highlight for Cortez, and for good reason. The skills displayed at rodeos are those that have allowed ranchers to feed us all with cattle raised on sparse western grass. Sure, they’re idealized, but rodeo is the Olympic competition of the West. It’s a celebration of hard work and hardship, and of cowboy cooperation.

It’s wholesome family fun with something for everyone. Besides the rodeo itself, there are two parades through downtown Cortez. There’s a carnival. There are concessions. Downtown merchants are offering special sales. That adds up to a lot of reasons to come to town and spend some quality time with neighbors and friends.