Fun sport or other events in AZ, NV, CA in May

Question

Hello,

Will be visiting from May 9th to 26th arriving in Las Vegas and moving around to visit some of the parks (Grand Canyon, Zion, Sequoia, Yosemite, etc) subject to change and leaving from San Francisco. I was wondering if there's anything fun sport related (i.e. rodeos, monster trucks) or other events, fairs in these areas around that time? Looking for something very USA to do. :D

Thank you!

Answer

Great trip window you've got there — mid-May to late May is a terrific time for combining national parks with a dose of all-American fun in the western U.S. When it comes to sport-events, fairs and that “very USA” feeling, you’re in luck: there are several gem events in Arizona, Nevada and California that fall right within or near your travel period. Here are some of the best picks and what to keep an eye on.

Here are some options worth checking out:

BigHorn Rodeo in Las Vegas, NV (May 23-25 2025): If you’re arriving into Las Vegas, this one is perfect. It’s a full rodeo event — bull riding, barrel racing, team roping — held at Horseman’s Park.
Penn Valley Rodeo near Nevada City, CA (May 16-17 2025): A smaller, more local rodeo with bronc riding, mutton bustin’ (kids’ fun event), barrel racing. Good stop if you’re passing through northern California.
Strawberry Music Festival in Grass Valley, CA (May 21-26 2025): Not a sport event per se, but an authentic multi-day outdoor festival in the Sierra with music, folk/culture, camping and that Western laid-back vibe. If you’re driving through those parts this could be a memorable stop.
County fairs & festivals in California: For example, the Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee kicks off around May 15-18 in Angels Camp, CA — fun, quirky Western-town ambiance.
Miscellaneous sports / motor-events: While I didn’t find a huge list of monster truck events locked in for that exact window in all regions, Las Vegas and surrounding areas regularly host arena events (check local arenas like SouthPoint).

Here are a few notes and recommendations to make the most of it:

Since you’re arriving in Las Vegas and moving to national parks, the BigHorn Rodeo is a very convenient, high-value “USA classic” stop early on. You could attend that before heading out to the parks.
If your route takes you through northern California (Yosemite/Sequoia region or along the Sierra), the Penn Valley Rodeo or Strawberry Music Festival provide local flavour and a chance to break up longer drives.
Timing: Because you’ll be moving around several states and parks, check exact dates and ticket availability early. Some events may require advance registration or might sell out. The rodeos listed already show dates and you’ll want to plan around those days.
Location & logistics: Make sure whichever event you pick doesn’t force a huge detour off your main park route. For example, if you’re heading straight from Las Vegas to Zion or Grand Canyon, attending an event in Las Vegas makes sense. If you’ll be going into northern California later, then the CA events work.
Authenticity factor: Rodeos (especially smaller local ones) bring real Western culture: cowboy hats, horses, big outdoors arena atmosphere. Festivals in smaller towns bring local arts, music, crafts, and that “local American” flavor. Choose what feels right for your family.

In summary: yes, you absolutely *can* fit in a fun sport or “very USA” event during your May 9-26 trip. The standout for your arrival region (Nevada/Las Vegas) is the BigHorn Rodeo. Then as you move into the park-zone and California, you have additional options for local rodeos or festivals that won’t derail your travel schedule. Pick one or two depending on how long you’ll dwell in each region, lock in tickets, and enjoy the mix of national parks *and* Americana culture.

Fun sport or other events in AZ, NV, CA in May

More Arizona (AZ) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions