Every year, when the first week of June rolls around, Santa Maria morphs from a quiet town famed for its strawberries, row crops, and fine wineries into a boot-stomping burg of bronco riders and barrel racers. Accomplished cowpokes and wannabe rancheros alike welcome the festivities of the famous Elks Rodeo, though many agree that the proceedings can lead to a powerful thirst for local libations.
The four-day extravaganza, dedicated to generating funds for youth recreation in the Santa Maria Valley, includes a lively dance, lavish banquet, and a parade that draws 100,000 spectators. Daily displays of horsemanship and bravado comprise the top-notch rodeo, an annual event that’s ranked No. 3 among the rodeos held in California.
Hirsute he-men vie for the title of “Longest Beard” in the Beard-a-Reno contest (the rodeo’s unofficial kick-off), local gals compete to be named Miss Wrangler, and eager kids start practicing their mutton bustin’ moves. Throughout the long weekend, participants will want to have plenty of imbibables on hand for wetting dry whistles and proposing joyful toasts.
On June 4, warm up for the fun ahead with a Mini Rodeo, followed by an unforgettable exhibition at the Unocal Event Center. Here members of Professional Bull Riders attempt to stay atop the one-ton brutes for at least eight seconds, a daring feat best observed from a safe distance and preferably with a cold drink in hand.
On June 5, two-steppers and line-dancers kick up their heels at the annual Rodeo Dance, held at the Santa Maria Elks Lodge. Proper preparation for the evening’s activities might include a glass or two of Black Jack Ranch 2006 Harmonie—a Bordeaux blend—or the Hitching Post 2006 Cork Dancer Pinot Noir, both sure to set happy feet in motion.
The parade gets underway on June 6 at 9 a.m. and features 167 entries, including floats, marching bands, clowns, fire engines, vintage cars, and equestrian and youth groups from all over the state. Members of PCPA, whose recent Master of the House Wine Package was a sold-out success, will also be on hand to regale bystanders with a demonstration of local talent.
Before heading over to the rodeo grounds, jumpstart a festive brunch by indulging in a “stirrup cup,” an ancient tradition that involves a stemless glass of wine commonly sipped by departing riders to bring them good luck on the hunt. Uncork a crisp Tres Hermanas 2007 Riesling (Kick-On Vineyard), a peach and sweet apple treat with just a hint of lemon, or a robust red, such as Longoria Wines 2006 Tempranillo, a varietal from Spain, home of the vaquero culture that gave rise to the rodeo as we know it today.
And after a day in the sun rooting for man and beast, a cold draft beer from Santa Maria Brewery offers a refreshing antidote to the dust of battle. The friendly brewery, located near the junction of Highways 101 and 166 (349-2090), serves up cool glasses of suds Tuesday through Sunday.
Proprietor and brewmaster Dan Hilker offers a tempting selection of Honey Blond Ale, Santa Maria Pale Ale, Santa Maria Amber Ale, and Santa Maria Porter, all brewed onsite. Enjoy the beer at the homey bar, or in handy, re-useable jugs, called growlers, that are perfect for taking away to picnics and parties.
For pre-dinner parties on June 6, Rodeo banquet night, open a bottle of the 2006 Generation Red, a tasty Bordeaux blend, or 2006 Big Circle Syrah, both made by Hitching Post Wines, named in honor of the not-so-distant days when most people traveled aboard a horse. Revelers who reach into the cellar for Bernat 2003 Cowboy Cuvee will savor the pleasure of a perfectly aged, ready-to-drink Syrah.
To celebrate the 66th annual staging of the Elks Rodeo, Cambria Winery throws its hat into the ring with Rodeo Days, June 6, at the winery’s elegant tasting room near Santa Maria. Experience special barrel tastings, kickin’ country music, and sumptuous snacks that staffers promise “will keep you roped in and ready for more.”
“We’re an ‘All-American City,’” reads Mayor Larry Lavagnino’s welcome on the City of Santa Maria’s website, “where traditional America blends with cultural diversity.” And it’s true, because what other town can boast an internationally famous style of barbecue, true Western rodeo, and world-class wines as indigenous products?
So celebrate Santa Maria and our cowboy culture by taking in one or all of the Elks Rodeo events, or head home for a party all your own. Just remember to stock the cellar and fridge with plenty of thirst quenchers for the wonderful, boot-stomping days ahead.
K. Reka Badger is busy dusting off her boots. E-mail comments or ideas to rekabadger@hotmail.com.
This article appears in May 28 – Jun 4, 2009.
