Mitchell, South Dakota home to the Corn Palace Stampede unveils new venue in 2024

By Gretchen Kirchmann

Omaha, Neb. (July 28, 2024) – The 53rd annual Corn Palace Stampede celebrated with their theme Cowboys in Paradise July 18-20, 2024.  The Mitchell, South Dakota rodeo committee proudly introduced their new rodeo grounds, Stampede Park, to the community, rodeo fans, contestants and sponsors with tremendous hospitality.  The venue is literally paradise in the form of a brand-new venue featuring deluxe VIP accommodations, private sponsors suites, amenities for the general public, contestant parking and livestock pens.  The property creates a new beginning for a half century old tradition of ProRodeo in Mitchell.  Stampede Park is a show piece for East River with multiple opportunities for special events to come in future years.

Rodeo Volunteer Madison and Barrel Racer Summer Kosel pose with leis and smiles embracing the Cowboys in Paradise theme.

A view from the hospitality area looking towards the VIP balcony and bucking chutes. The corporate suites are located above with private suite access.

The rodeo grounds are laid out for the general public to enjoy a night at the rodeo with a great view.  The rodeo grounds also provide ample opportunities for corporate America to rent space and entertain their clients.  Private suites allow sponsors to customize their hospitality space for entertaining. Balcony viewing above the bucking chutes with VIP access includes complimentary beverages, hot dogs, burgers and plenty of socializing with upgraded tickets.

The theme Cowboys in Paradise fit perfect for summertime in late July, humidity and Friday rain showers didn’t dampen the weekend.

A tub of artificial leis welcomed rodeo contestants embracing the theme all weekend long.  The contestant hospitality tent was decorated with miniature palm tree center pieces. Hawaii Flower Lei website explains the lei having a connection steeped in love and joy, enriching life’s most significant milestones.  The Corn Palace Stampede represents both elements for the love of rodeo, the joy it brings the community with the annual celebration and especially the significant milestone of creating Stampede Park.

Thousands of citizens came out for the annual parade on Saturday. Cowboys in Paradise was significant with bubble machines, water guns, Hawaiian shirts and beach scenes on floats.  The floats down Main Street threw tons of candy.  A variety of grass skirts, beach tunes, and of course Hawaiian shirts, shorts and boots kept it country. The official Facebook page Corn Palace Stampede provides a list of parade winners.

Prorodeo.com is the source for rodeo results with $92,258 in prize money payout. The images below provide a glimpse of the community celebration.