Ultimate Things You Never Do at an Oklahoma Rodeo

Rodeos in Oklahoma: they're a tradition and a way of life for many involved. Take our advice: if you find yourself doing these things (or not), you're doing it wrong.

Don't Take Someone's Hat

Men in general don't like their hats touched - cowboys will take you down and take their hat back.

Do: Bring An Ice Chest (Small Town Rodeos)

At the larger rodeos like the Will Rogers Stamped, Lawton Rangers Rodeo or Pioneer Days in Guymon will limit your ability to go in and out of the rodeo. But, when the town is as big as the arena, like Cyril, Gotebo, or Walters, keep an ice chest handy for drinks at the trailer.

Don't Bring Your Yappy Dogs or Rowdy Animals

Livestock and horses at the rodeo are professional animals - trained and valuable to their owners. The last thing they need is to be injured by animals not trained to be around crowds of people, livestock or other animals.

Do: Bring The Kids!

Rodeos are a blast for everyone, including the children. Most rodeos include a calf scramble, mutton busting and other events that all the kiddos in the stands can take part in (certain ages).

Don't Pet The Bulls or Livestock Through the Fence

Again, these animals are trained professionals - some worth more than the car you're driving. While working, they're trying to perform a job, not act as pets. Admire them from afar, but keep safe and leave the pets for the petting zoo.

Do: Haul Your Own Horse For Grand Entry

Grand entries are great exposure for horses that aren't hauled often. If you haven't hauled often, it's better to start at a small town rodeo, as the larger rodeos with more people and things can overstimulate your horse. Be aware that certain rodeos do check for up to date coggins, sometimes vaccinations and may ask for a fee. Generally, small town rodeos do not charge to participate.

Don't Wear a Cowboy Hat Unproperly

You may not have anything terrible happen, but if you find yourself hearing snickers and chuckles from behind, you may have your hat on backwards. If you aren't sure, play it safe and wear a ball cap. According to Brixton.com, "Look for a small bow tied to the sweatband on the inside of your cowboy hat, and make sure it goes to the back of your head. If there’s a buckle or feather plume tucked under the band, they should be on the left side of your head. In general, the front of the hat is narrower than the back."

Do: Cheer Them On!

The riders and entertainers in the rodeo love the interaction! Don't be shy - when you see your favorite rider or animal, give em' a hoot and a holler.

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Don't Kneel During the National Anthem

As part of southern customs, we stand and respect the flag. Despite the many other sports that allow for the display, rodeos are the last place for the act.

Do: Remove Your Hat or Cover During the Anthem

During the national anthem, it is respectful to remove all hats and cover for the American flag.

Don't Stay On Your Phone The Entire Time

Not only could you miss most of the action, you could miss an integral moment like this one. Animals and accidents go hand in hand - everyone at the rodeo need to be aware of what's going on around them.

Do: Stay Hydrated and Plan Ahead for Traffic

Spending hours in the sun can dehydrate anyone to a dangerous degree. Remember to drink plenty of water before and during the event.

When leaving the rodeo, traffic is almost always a nightmare. Keep your cool, wait patiently and remember to use those southern manners we mentioned earlier. You'll be surprised how quickly things go when everyone is thinking of others.