Williams Lake's heritage is steeped in cowboy culture and the city is known for its famous rodeos/stampedes (fact: rodeos are the same as stampedes). Get a real sense of the city's ranching history by attending one of several local events.
Indoor Rodeo
Cowboys and cowgirls from around the region gather for the annual Williams Lake Indoor Rodeo, held at the city's Cariboo Memorial Arena in April. This three-day event is the BC Rodeo Association's second-largest rodeo, delivering heart stopping competitions and top cash prizes.In addition to time-honored rodeo events including calf roping and bareback riding, the entertainment includes clowns and a Drill Team – a group of horseback riders showcasing high-speed patterns and maneuvers in rhythm to music. Pancake breakfasts and live music and dances keep visitors entertained from day until night.
Williams Lake Stampede
Rodeos and ranching go hand in hand. Early in the 20th Century, the Pacific Great Eastern Railway built stock yards at a stop on the western end of Williams Lake, creating a major shipping centre for the Cariboo. The first Williams Lake Rodeo was an impromptu celebration held in 1919 to celebrate the construction of the railroad.Eventually, the Rodeo was organized into an official Stampede and this three-day annual event is attracts professional and amateur competitors from all over the country. Held on the first long weekend in July, the Williams Lake Stampede has become one of the premier events in the rodeo circuit.
Cattle Auctions and Cowboy Hall of Fame
There's something about the chaos and noise of a cattle auction that will appeal to a wannabe-pioneer. The Williams Lake Stock Yards, located on Cattle Drive, host a weekly cattle and horse auction on Thursdays throughout the spring and summer. Beef from the range is auctioned and the action is fast and denim is the fashion. Learn even more about cowboy culture at the Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin, which hosts the Cowboy Hall of Fame, and is located at 113 North 4th Avenue or check in at the Tourism Discovery Centre/Visitor Centre for more information.