CHEYENNE, Wyo. — Sunup to sunset, the 2024 edition of Cheyenne Frontier Days showcased entertainment, history and community spirit. Known as the “Daddy of ‘em All,” the event boasts a 128-year legacy rooted in rodeo traditions, according to a press release by CFD.
This year, the theme “Year of the Cowgirl” highlighted women’s contributions both inside and outside the arena.
On June 28, CFD dedicated a bronze statue named “How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls,” crafted by Wyoming sculptor D. Michael Thomas. The statue stands proudly next to the Chris LeDoux statue. Champions in Women’s Ranch Bronc Riding, Breakaway Roping and Barrel Racing received miniature versions of the bronze.
The event’s rich history, dating back to 1897, would be impossible without the dedication of over 3,000 volunteers. More than 1,500 rodeo contestants competed for a share of the $1.2 million purse. Chet Weitz, a 23-year-old tie-down roper from London, Texas, set an arena record at 9.1 seconds during the qualifying rounds July 13–17, according to the release.
The Quarter Finals began on July 19, leading to the Semi Finals on July 26–27 and culminating in Championship Sunday. The all-around championship saw a fierce competition between 18-year-old rookie Wesley Schalla and Coleman Proctor, twice his age. Schalla competed in bareback and bull riding, while Proctor, from Pryor, Oklahoma, participated in steer roping and team roping. Proctor secured the All-Around Champion title for the second time, having also won in 2022.
Throughout nine rodeo performances, 115,494 fans attended, slightly down from 116,960 last year. The Quarter Finals, Semi Finals and Finals were broadcast live on The Cowboy Channel, with qualifying rounds available on The Cowboy Channel+ app. The final Saturday featured a sold-out performance celebrating National Day of the Cowboy.
Beyond the rodeo, on-site attractions included the Indian Village, concerts, trade shows and a carnival. The popular Behind the Chutes Tours drew nearly 4,000 attendees for a close look at the rodeo arena and livestock.
CFD officials emphasized suicide prevention through the Pick-Up Man Initiative, symbolized by yellow feathers on cowboy hats, encouraging people to support those in need. Military Monday honored all branches of the military, offering free admission to active personnel and veterans. Special ceremonies featured the Leapfrogs Navy Parachute Team and a parade of military vehicles.
Frontier Nights saw 119,793 attendees, down from 134,134 last year. The Professional Bull Riders-Last Man Standing event was a highlight. In total, 263,640 people attended the various events, including 28,353 gate admission tickets, according to the release.
Approximately 6,500 head of livestock participated in the rodeo, parades and bull riding. On-site veterinarians inspected animals multiple times daily, treating 12 and unfortunately losing two. This year, the event introduced a new 150-acre “Horse Haven” off-site pasture for bucking horses.
Downtown Cheyenne hosted four parades and three pancake breakfasts, with 19,076 people enjoying the free meals. The Native American Indian Village attracted approximately 35,948 visitors with storytelling, hoop dancing and flute playing.
“We had an amazing year in 2024,” said John Contos, CFD general chairman. “The Year of the Cowgirl gave us extra inspiration. We are grateful to everyone involved and are ready to start planning for 2025.”
