Painted Pony Championship Rodeo in Lake Luzerne, NY serves up real rodeo excitement and slow-cooked Southern BBQ just minutes from Lake George. Get your tickets for the rodeo today!
A Classic Rodeo Experience Near Lake George
Step into a true western tradition in the foothills of the Adirondacks, where the smell of smoked barbecue drifts through the air, country music sets the tone, and the rodeo arena comes alive under the evening sky. Painted Pony Championship Rodeo is more than a night out—it’s a uniquely American experience that blends food, sport, and small-town charm.
Authentic Southern BBQ in the Adirondacks
As soon as you walk through the gates, you’ll be greeted by the scent of slow-smoked meats and the sound of country music drifting through the air. Painted Pony's smoke pits are fired up at dawn and run late into the night to create a Southern Style BBQ that’s rich in smoky flavor and cooked to tender perfection. From seasoned pitmasters to time-tested recipes, this BBQ is the real deal.
BBQ is served Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 5:30PM–7:30PM and Thursday from 12PM–2PM. Enjoy your choice of smoked BBQ chicken, pulled pork, or a chicken and pulled pork combo plate.
You’ll also pick two sides from a selection that includes potato salad, Western baked beans, mac & cheese, or Grandma’s coleslaw. Meals are served with all the warmth and generosity you’d expect from a true Southern-style spread.
Rodeo Action Under the Adirondack Sky
Once the sun sets behind the mountains, the action begins in the arena. Painted Pony is the oldest continuous weekly rodeo in the U.S., originally founded in 1953 by Don “Wild Horse” Baxter. Today, the tradition lives on with nightly competitions featuring:
- Bareback Bronc Riding
- Saddle Bronc Riding
- Steer Wrestling
- Team Roping
- Tie-Down Roping
- Cowgirls’ Breakaway Roping
- Cowgirls’ Barrel Racing
- Bull Riding
Cheer on professional cowboys and cowgirls from across the country as they compete for nightly cash prizes and the year-end trophy buckle.
More Than a Rodeo—It’s a Night Out
After the dust settles in the arena, the Longhorn Saloon keeps the fun going with country music, dancing, and drinks. Kick up your boots, relax with friends, and let the western spirit carry on into the night.
Just Minutes from Lake George
Painted Pony Championship Rodeo is located only 5 miles from Lake George Village, making it a fun and easy addition to any summer itinerary in the region. Whether you're here for the thrills, the barbecue, or the live music, you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime.
Weekly Schedule Highlights:
Wednesday, Friday & Saturday: BBQ Dinner from 5:30PM to 7:30PM · Rodeo starts at 7:30PM
→ Arrive between 5:30PM and 6:00PM for the best dinner experienceThursday Matinee: BBQ Lunch from 12:00PM to 2:00PM · Rodeo starts at 2:00PM
→ Arrive between 12:00PM and 12:30PM to enjoy your meal before the show
Visit their website to check the schedule, buy tickets, and start planning your rodeo adventure!