By AMBER PATINO
One of Holmes County’s most anticipated annual traditions will return next month as the 82nd Annual Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo takes place October 1-3 at Memorial Field in Bonifay.
Established in 1944, the rodeo continues to draw competitors and spectators from across the region while serving as a showcase of the area’s heritage and community spirit. During the three-day event, gates will open daily at 5 p.m., activities will begin at 5 p.m., and rodeo action will start at 7:30 p.m. Attendees can expect traditional rodeo competitions including bull riding, tie-down roping, team roping, and bronc riding, along with crowd favorites such as mutton bustin’ and the calf scramble. Vendors will also be on hand throughout the event offering a variety of food, merchandise, and other wares for visitors to enjoy.
The celebration begins before rodeo week with a combined luncheon hosted by the Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo and the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, September 24. The luncheon will be held at noon at Midtown Plaza, located at 401 McLaughlin Avenue in Bonifay, kicking off the annual festivities.
The annual 5K Bull Run will follow on Saturday, September 26 at Middlebrooks Park. The race is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m., with a Fun Run beginning at 9 a.m. Registration for the 5K is $25 in advance and $30 on race day, while the Fun Run costs $20 in advance and $25 on race day.
As rodeo week arrives, one of the event’s most recognizable traditions will once again take over downtown Bonifay. The Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo Parade is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Friday, October 2, and Saturday, October 3. The annual parade attracts thousands of spectators who line the streets to watch floats, marching bands, motorcycles, ATVs, wagon trains and hundreds of horses.
Another longstanding rodeo tradition returns on Saturday morning, October 3, when Bonifay Fire Rescue hosts its annual Pancake and Sausage Breakfast. The breakfast will be held at Station 1 South, located at 809 S. Waukesha St., from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. with tickets available for $10.
Tickets for the 82nd Annual Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo may be purchased at the gate or in advance through the official Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo website. Additional information about rodeo events and activities is available through the organization’s website and Facebook page.
GARETT VALCOURT 
Staff Report 