WAUSAU EVENTS FIELD GUIDE
Stick Pony Rodeo Races: Tiny Barrel Racers and Bull-Riding Cutouts Take Over Wausau’s Festival Grounds
A family-focused, make-and-race rodeo for kids ages 2–12 on June 29th — this guide explains the races, registration, and what to bring.
Stick Pony Rodeo Races: Tiny Barrel Racers and Bull-Riding Cutouts Take Over Wausau’s Festival Grounds.
On June 29th Willow Springs Garden stages a small, raucous rodeo for children: stick pony races around barrels, egg-and-spoon runs, boot races and even a mock bull-riding contest on the rodeo showgrounds beside the festival’s bounce houses. It’s loud, earnest and designed for kids, with ribbon awards and an MC keeping the pace.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Barrels, Boots and Bull-Riding — Scaled Down for Kids
The program includes plug races (around a single barrel), three-barrel patterns, boot races, egg-and-spoon contests and a playful bull-riding class — all tailored to two distinct age groups so kids race with peers.
Rodeo Showgrounds at the Independence Day Festival
Races take place on the event’s rodeo showgrounds, staged near the festival’s bounce houses so families can flow between activities while the MC announces each heat.
Ribbons and an Emcee to Keep Things Moving
Mark, the event MC, announces the races and awards ribbons after each class — a short ritual that turns every run into a small celebration.
What the day feels like
What the Event Feels Like
The morning collapses into a series of quick heats: kids line up, ride or carry decorated stick ponies around barrels or balance an egg on a spoon, then sprint for ribbons. New stick ponies are available for the rides, or families may bring their own; the emphasis is on lively participation and lighthearted competition for ages 2–12.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this short, lively event — and who should reconsider?
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The event runs on June 29th with the program starting at 11:00 a.m.
New rides will have a stick pony to use, or families may bring their own stick pony for the races.
Entry is $5 per class or a bundle of 5 classes for $20; pre-registration is required.
Meet near the bounce houses at the Independence Day Festival — races take place on the rodeo showgrounds adjacent to that area.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When is the event?
The Stick Pony Races are on June 29th starting at 11:00 a.m.
Where do I meet for the races?
Meet near the bounce houses at the Independence Day Festival; races run at the rodeo showgrounds nearby.
What ages can participate?
There are two age groups: ages 2–6 and ages 7–12.
How much does it cost and do I need to register?
Cost is $5 per class or 5 classes for $20, and pre-registration is required.
Do I need to bring a stick pony?
New rides will have a stick pony to use, or you are welcome to bring your own.
What classes are included?
Classes include plug race (around a barrel), barrel race (pattern around three barrels), boot race, egg-and-spoon race, and bull riding.
Are ribbons awarded?
Yes — Mark, the event MC, will announce the races and ribbon awards will be given.