CHEYENNE – Months of speculations and wondering were put to rest today when Governor Mark Gordon, flanked by representatives from the Wyoming’s biggest rodeo events, officially announced the cancellation of Cheyenne Frontier Days and other large summer rodeo events.
CFD, the Thermopolis Cowboy Rendezvous, the Central Wyo Rodeo, Cody Stampede, Laramie Jubilee Days and the Sheridan WYO Rodeo are all cancelled for 2020 in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.
During a tearful address, Gordon announced that smaller rodeos, county fair and the Wyoming State Fair will still take place, but the state’s largest events – and revenue drivers – presented too much of a risk.

“Going off half-cocked just wouldn’t be worth it,” Gordon said. “This coronavirus thing sucks. There are just no two ways about.
“We in Wyoming are always ready to cowboy up – and none of us up here is an exception. There are other considerations that need to be taken into account. Holding these events, without the night shows, parades and carnivals just wouldn’t be the same. Simply holding these events doesn’t guarantee people will come, and it doesn’t guarantee they wont get sick afterwards.”
Gordon opened the press conference with the news the state health orders will be amended, starting Monday, to allow groups of 250 people to assemble. This will allow for events like weddings, graduations and smaller community events to take place.
“These are unbelievably tough decisions, but I do want to end on a bit of a bright note,” he said. “Together, we are committed to making our state fair the premier event it needs to be this August.”