While some consider a backyard barbecue the ultimate 4th of July celebration, nothing is more serious to this country town (and the cities around it) than getting in touch with their Western roots for anything but a tame celebration.

Welcome friends to the 4th of July Oakley Rodeo.

Now in it’s 81st year, the Oakley Rodeo is anything but a small-time, locals only event. Each year over 20,000 people descend upon this Wasatch Back farming community of 1,500 population to witness a serious, 4-day competition of professional cowboys, ropers, bareback riders, barrel racers and bull tamers. Sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, the largest and oldest professional rodeo in the world, the Oakley Rodeo showcases the world’s best cowboys in premier events competing for a national title.

This is far from a small town event. This is the big time, pardner.

Buckin’ broncs, randy and raring bulls, plus cowboys, cowgirls and rodeo queens are all in attendance to make this a true Western-rooted celebration that’s hardly ready to be tamed.

While tickets for the 4th of July rodeo sell out quickly, tickets to the remaining three nights can be easier to score. This bucket list celebration extends all weekend long with a small town Independence Day parade, 5k race, and junior rodeo worthy of any red, white and blue festivity.

It’s a celebration worthy of any and every 4th of July.

Rodeo dates are June 30, July 1, 2 & 4, starting at 8 p.m. and include an after-rodeo fireworks show. Tickets are $15 and all seats are reserved. For more information visit oakleycity.com.

Heidi Larsen is the creator of foodiecrush.com, the blog and online magazine featuring family friendly recipes and inspiring photography. She also photographs Deer Valley Resort’s food and fine dining when not enjoying quality time on the ski hill with her husband and 12 year old daughter. See more of what she’s crushing on at Facebook and Instagram.