Dayton Days Rodeo and Parade set for Memorial Day Weekend

By Loyal and Charlotte Baker

DAYTON–Shine up those cowboy boots and plan to head 'em up and move 'em out to the Columbia County Fairgrounds here next weekend because the 2021 edition of the Dayton Days-Columbia County Fair Association Jackpot Rodeo is set for two performances Friday and Saturday, May 28 and 29.

And the Dayton Days Parade, brought to you by the Dayton Chamber of Commerce, will sparkle down Dayton's Main Street beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 29.

Rodeo fans who have suffered deprivation due to the coronavirus in 2020 will have two opportunities to see hard-charging rodeo action as Dayton Days and the Columbia County Fair Association have opted to put on two nights of rodeo. Local cowboys Greg Fullerton and Tony Currin will be on the ground directing the action.

Not only that, rodeo competitors have been champing at the bit to rodeo, and a full card of contestants should mean excitement and plenty of action both nights. Stock contractor Bar X Ranches has 24 bull riders-and a waiting list-for that exciting event, plus there will be saddle bronc riding, team roping, barrel racing, steer riding, chute doggin', breakaway roping and junior barrel racing. "It's looking like a good rodeo," according to Tucker Cool of Bar X Ranches.

Under county COVID-19 guidelines, attendance in the grandstands will be limited due to physical distancing requirements. Tickets are available by purchase online only, through EventBrite.com. Search for Dayton Days Rodeo or move the map to include the Columbia County area and click on "Search this area." Select the night you want to attend, and click on tickets. Adults are $12, and youth 8 to 14, and seniors, are $10, payable by credit card through the website. There is no charge for children seven and under.

Tickets not sold online will be available on a first come, first served basis at the gate.

Rodeo performances begin each night at 7 p.m. A slack rodeo will get underway about 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Local service clubs and vendors will be on hand for food and shopping, and if you want to give bull riding a shot, a mechanical bull will give you that chance, with a soft landing guaranteed. The Dayton Kiwanis Club and Dayton Lions Club will have their booths open, and My Dad's Place will be offering its line of fine food.