Defeat the Beast Rodeo

Experience the heart-pounding competition and electrifying energy of Little Rock's most anticipated rodeo event.

The 4th annual Defeat the Beast Rodeo returns to Barton Coliseum this March, bringing together the nation's top African American cowboys and cowgirls for two unforgettable nights of competition and entertainment.

Proudly hosted and created by local Arkansans, this African American invitational rodeo celebrates Black heritage and community while inspiring the next generation to explore careers in agriculture and the rodeo industry. Whether you're a die-hard rodeo fan or experiencing your first taste of the Wild West, the world-class competitors and electric crowd will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Event Details

The 2026 Defeat the Beast Rodeo in Little Rock is on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Barton Coliseum. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m. nightly.

Get Your Tickets

Purchase your tickets online or pick them up in person at Ugly Mike's and Uncle T's Food Mart. With the energy this event brings year after year, you won't want to miss your chance to be part of the action!

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for an evening packed with classic rodeo thrills, unexpected surprises, and non-stop entertainment that'll keep you on the edge of your seat.

Rodeo Events

Throughout the years Defeat the Beast Rodeo has featured these events:

  • Mutton Busting - Young children ride a sheep for as long as possible without being thrown off.
  • Bull Riding - Riders attempt to stay on a bucking bull for as long as possible.
  • Calf Roping - Timed event where a rider lassos a calf, then dismounts and ties three of its legs.
  • Barrel Racing - High-speed rodeo event where the horse and rider race around barrels in the shortest time.
  • Ladies Roping - Cowgirl ropes a calf from horseback with a breakaway rope. The timer stops when the calf breaks the rope.
  • Team Roping - Two riders work together to rope a steer: one catches the head, the other the hind legs.
  • Pony Express - Relay race where teams circle barrels and pass a baton, with the first team to deposit their baton in the barrel winning.

Entertainment

DJ Deja Blu keeps the party going with great music that'll have the whole arena moving.

Ready to saddle up for Defeat the Beast? Explore our hotels and start planning your rodeo getaway. With doors opening at 6 p.m. each evening, you'll have the entire day to enjoy Little Rock's dining scene, museums, and unique attractions before the evening's excitement begins.

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