Surrey’s Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair Rides High with Fresh Attractions and Record Turnout
New events, a focus on family-friendly fun, and a surge in attendance define this year’s beloved country celebration.
A Bigger, Bolder Cloverdale Rodeo Wows Surrey Once Again
Surrey, BC — July 2025
The Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair galloped back into town this past weekend with renewed energy, record-breaking crowds, and an exciting lineup of new attractions. Held over the Canada Day long weekend, the annual celebration blended high-octane rodeo action with wholesome fairground festivities, capturing the hearts of over 120,000 visitors and injecting fresh momentum into one of British Columbia’s most cherished traditions.
A Historic Rodeo Embracing the Future
Founded in 1888, the Cloverdale Rodeo has long been a staple of Surrey’s cultural calendar. But in recent years, organizers have been making strategic changes to broaden its appeal. This year’s edition saw expanded family zones, Indigenous cultural showcases, eco-conscious vendors, and an inclusive lineup of musical performances that ranged from classic country to indie rock.
“It’s more than just bulls and broncs,” said Jennifer MacLeod, marketing director for the Cloverdale Rodeo Association. “We’re creating an experience that celebrates the full spectrum of Western heritage and modern Canadian values.”
Some of the standout additions this year included:
- The Agri-Learning Pavilion: A hands-on, kid-friendly exhibit featuring live animal demos and interactive farming tech.
- Green Rodeo Initiatives: A pilot composting program and reduced single-use plastics made the fairgrounds cleaner and more sustainable.
- Night Rodeo Events: First-time night performances added drama under the floodlights and attracted a younger crowd.
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Why This Year Mattered More Than Most
After pandemic disruptions and slower years of recovery, the 2025 rodeo represented a full return to form—and perhaps even a reinvention.
“We saw a 22% increase in attendance compared to 2024,” noted City Councillor Deepak Kaur. “That’s not just great news for tourism—it’s a sign that people are hungry for authentic, community-rooted experiences.”
Behind the scenes, a concerted effort was made to reconnect with younger demographics and multicultural families across the Lower Mainland. Multilingual signage, diverse food trucks, and inclusive marketing campaigns helped make the event feel more accessible than ever.
And for many longtime Surrey residents, the rodeo has become a touchpoint for belonging.
“It’s where generations meet,” said local vendor Ravi Patel, who’s run a food stall for seven years. “My kids get to see where they’re from, and where the city is going.”
Looking Ahead: Tradition Meets Innovation
As the dust settles on another successful year, organizers are already gearing up for 2026. Plans include a greater emphasis on Indigenous partnerships, tech-enabled ticketing, and possibly extending the fair’s run to five days.
Public sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, with social media flooded with family photos, glowing reviews, and calls to bring back popular acts like the Canadian Cowgirls trick-riding team and the live music series.
However, there are lessons to learn. Traffic congestion, limited shuttle access, and accessibility gaps for those with disabilities were noted by some attendees.
Possible solutions:
- Expanding park-and-ride options
- Improving on-site mobility services
- Implementing a dedicated event app for real-time updates
Organizers have pledged to review all feedback.
Closing: Where Community and Celebration Converge
The Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair proved yet again that Surrey knows how to throw a party with purpose. With a strong nod to its Western roots and an open embrace of a diverse future, this year’s event was more than a rodeo—it was a reaffirmation of community, culture, and connection.
For those who missed it, there’s always next year. But if the 2025 edition is any indication, you’ll want to get your tickets early.
