Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo Breakaway: Where Tradition Meets Texas-Sized Excitement The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association proudly presents one of Texas' most anticipated spring rodeo events When the warm spring breeze begins to sweep across the Lone Star State, rodeo enthusiasts know it's time for one of the most exciting events on the Texas Circuit calendar. The Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo Breakaway is saddling up for an unforgettable weekend of world-class competition, community celebration, and authentic western heritage on March 28-29, 2025, at the Ellis County Youth Expo in Waxahachie, Texas. ## A Texas Tradition in the Making As the sun sets over the rolling hills of Ellis County, the arena lights will illuminate a showcase of talent that embodies the spirit of the American West. This PRCA-sanctioned event brings together top competitors from across the region, all vying for their share of the $4,000 purse and valuable points on the Texas Circuit. "The Ellis County rodeo has quickly become a cornerstone event for our Texas Circuit competitors," notes a PRCA representative. "The combination of exceptional stock, enthusiastic crowds, and the community's deep appreciation for western heritage makes this a can't-miss stop on the road to the Circuit Finals." ## Breakaway Roping Takes Center Stage While the Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo features a full slate of thrilling competitions, breakaway roping stands as the marquee event of the weekend. This lightning-fast discipline showcases the precision, timing, and horsemanship that defines rodeo excellence. For those new to the sport, breakaway roping features a mounted competitor who must rope a calf around the neck. Unlike tie-down roping, the rope is tied to the saddle horn with a string that breaks away when the calf is caught, stopping the timer. The fastest time wins, with competitors often recording times under three seconds. The breakaway competition at Ellis County has become known for attracting some of the most skilled ropers in the sport. Last year's event saw several sub-two-second runs that had the crowd on their feet, and this year promises even more record-breaking performances as competitors push the boundaries of what's possible in this technical discipline. ## Beyond Breakaway: A Full Rodeo Experience While breakaway roping headlines the event, the Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo delivers a complete rodeo experience. Spectators can expect edge-of-your-seat action with traditional events including: - Barrel Racing: Watch as horse and rider teams navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels in a race against the clock, where hundredths of a second can separate champions from the pack. - Bull Riding: The ultimate test of courage as cowboys attempt to stay aboard a bucking bull for eight seconds, with scores based on both rider performance and bull difficulty. - Team Roping: A showcase of precision teamwork as header and heeler work in perfect coordination to rope a steer. - Saddle Bronc & Bareback Riding: Classic events that test a cowboy's skill, strength, and style atop a powerful bucking horse. - Steer Wrestling: The "big man's event" where cowboys leap from horseback to wrestle a steer to the ground in mere seconds. ## Youth Showcase: The Heart of Ellis County's Rodeo Tradition The "Livestock Show" portion of the event's name isn't just for show. The Ellis County event proudly features a comprehensive youth livestock exhibition that showcases the next generation of agricultural leaders. Local 4-H and FFA members will present their carefully raised and meticulously groomed cattle, sheep, goats, and swine in competitive judging. "These youth competitions represent the future of our western way of life," explains a rodeo committee member. "When you watch these young exhibitors in the ring, you're seeing months of dedication, early mornings, and valuable life lessons on display." The livestock show provides a perfect complement to the rodeo action, creating a full day of entertainment that honors both the competitive and agricultural traditions of the American West. ## Entertainment Beyond the Arena When the dust settles between events, the Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo keeps the excitement going with entertainment for all ages. The midway area transforms into a celebration of western culture with: - Authentic Western Vendors: Browse handcrafted leather goods, custom western jewelry, and the latest in rodeo fashion from local and regional artisans. - Culinary Delights: From Texas barbecue and Mexican favorites to sweet treats and refreshing beverages, food vendors offer something to satisfy every craving. - Live Music: Between rodeo sessions, toe-tapping country and western performers keep the energy high with authentic Texas sounds. - Family Activities: The youngest rodeo fans can enjoy face painting, mechanical bull rides scaled for little cowboys and cowgirls, and interactive agricultural education stations. ## Community Spirit: The Foundation of Ellis County's Rodeo Success What truly sets the Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo apart is the deep community involvement that powers every aspect of the event. Local businesses proudly display their support through sponsorships, while an army of volunteers ensures that every detail is perfect for competitors and spectators alike. The event also serves as a significant fundraiser for local youth agricultural programs, with proceeds helping to fund scholarships, equipment, and educational opportunities for the next generation of farmers, ranchers, and rodeo competitors. "This isn't just a rodeo," shares a longtime volunteer. "It's a community coming together to celebrate our shared values and invest in our future. When you attend, you're not just watching a sporting event—you're becoming part of something bigger." ## Securing Your Spot at the Action With the growing popularity of the Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo Breakaway, advance ticket purchases are strongly recommended. Tickets for this can't-miss event will go on sale in late January 2025, available for purchase directly through this website. Various seating options will accommodate every preference, from general admission to premium viewing areas. Special rates will be available for families, seniors, military personnel, and groups, making this world-class rodeo experience accessible to all. ## Plan Your Visit The Ellis County Youth Expo in Waxahachie provides a comfortable, accessible venue for experiencing all the rodeo action. Located just 30 minutes south of Dallas, the facility offers ample parking, modern amenities, and excellent sightlines throughout the arena. Visitors should plan to arrive early to explore the vendor areas, watch the livestock exhibitions, and secure the best available seating. The facility is fully accessible for guests with mobility challenges, with designated parking and seating areas. ## Join the Tradition As March 2025 approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be the most exciting Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo Breakaway yet. Whether you're a lifelong rodeo enthusiast or experiencing your first taste of this uniquely American sport, this PRCA-sanctioned event delivers an unforgettable blend of athletic competition, cultural celebration, and family entertainment. Mark your calendars for March 28-29, 2025, and prepare to witness the skill, courage, and tradition that have defined rodeo for generations. As they say in rodeo circles, "It's not just a sport—it's a way of life." And for one spectacular weekend in Ellis County, that way of life takes center stage in all its glory. The Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo Breakaway—where every ride tells a story, every run creates a memory, and Texas rodeo tradition shines at its brightest. --- The Ellis County Livestock Show & Rodeo Breakaway is an official PRCA-sanctioned event on the Texas Circuit. Join us March 28-29, 2025, at the Ellis County Youth Expo in Waxahachie, Texas. Tickets available soon.