Black cowboys take center stage at Philly’s first 8 Seconds Rodeo! On Saturday, October 11, 2025, Philadelphia’s Liacouras Center will transform into a stage for grit, style, and history as the 8 Seconds Rodeo makes its East Coast premiere.
More than 8,000 fans are expected to gather for a night that merges explosive rodeo action with the vibrant culture of Black cowboys and cowgirls.
Founded in 2023 by photojournalist Ivan McClellan, the 8 Seconds Rodeo has already made waves on the West Coast in Portland. Now, Philly —home to one of America’s most storied Black urban cowboy communities —will host what McClellan calls a “showdeo,” blending Western heritage with Black creativity, fashion, music, and showmanship.
🐎 A full day of festivities
The celebration begins at 3 p.m. with line dancing, comedy, Western games, food vendors, and soul food. Guests can also expect giveaways, VIP experiences, and social activations before the main competition starts.
Actress and comedian X Mayo will keep the crowd laughing and the energy high throughout the evening.
🤠 High-stakes rodeo action
The heart of the event lives up to its name: the eight-second ride.
Competitors from across the country will battle for $60,000 in prize money in events like bull riding, bareback bronco riding, barrel racing, and even mutton bustin’ for young riders.
Athletes to watch include:
- The Bluebird Riders (Jaelah & Jiyah): An 11- and 13-year-old sister duo dominating the barrel racing world.
- Kandra Demery: The first African American equine rehabilitation therapist making her comeback after injury.
- Tank Adams: An Oklahoma bull rider and MMA fighter carrying on his family’s cowboy legacy.
- Au’vion Horton (A.V): A rising bull riding star from Arkansas with dreams of the National Finals Rodeo.
🏇🏻 8 Seconds Rodeo—honoring Philly’s Black Cowboy Legacy
Philadelphia’s Black cowboys have long been part of the city’s cultural fabric, with community stables and riders preserving traditions that go back generations.
The 8 Seconds Rodeo not only celebrates that history but also invests in the future, offering clinics and development programs for young rodeo athletes.
🤠 How to go to 8 Seconds Rodeo
Important to note, while honoring Black culture, 8 Seconds Rodeo is open to and welcomes people of all backgrounds.
So saddle up Philly and get your tickets!
📍 Liacouras Center, Philadelphia, PA
📅 Saturday, October 11, 2025
🎟️ Tickets start at $30, with VIP packages at $170.
Tickets are available now at 8secondsrodeo.com.
This isn’t just a rodeo — it’s a cultural movement where history, community, and adrenaline collide.