Event Information

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Maitland Showground for the 2026 Hunter Valley Rodeo
Date: Friday,
9 October 2026
Gates Open: 4:00 pm
VIP Area Opens: 4:00 pm
Main Event Starts: 6:00 pm
Rodeo Finish: Approx 11:00 pm

After a sellout event last year, the Hunter Valley Rodeo returns to Maitland Showground to kick off the Ringers Western Stampede Series.

Gates open from 4:00pm, with live music, market stalls, food, bars and amusements bringing the precinct to life before the main rodeo action gets underway from 6:00pm.

Expect a huge program of bull riding, saddle bronc, bareback and barrel racing, plus line dancing and giveaways at halftime.

When the final ride is done, stick around as Lachie Cosser and his band take the stage to bring the night home with live country music.

SEATING

A range of ticket options are available across the venue.

VIP Area: VIP ticket holders receive access to the exclusive VIP area, including guaranteed ringside seating in an optimal viewing position, a private bar and toilets, a more comfortable event experience, a merchandise gift including a seat cushion, and a complimentary drink on arrival.

Ringside Seating: Unreserved but exclusive seating section located close to the arena, providing an up-close view of the rodeo action.

General Admission Seating: General Admission ticket holders have access to the venue grandstands, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. A seat is not guaranteed with a General Admission ticket, so we recommend arriving early if you would like to secure a grandstand seat.

BYO Chair Area: A designated area will be available for guests who wish to bring their own chair. Capacity in this area is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Standing Room: Standing viewing areas are also available throughout the venue for guests who prefer to move around and experience the rodeo from different vantage points.

GETTING THERE

Rideshare / Taxi: Drop-off is available along Blomfield Street.

Train: Maitland Station is the closest train station and is approximately a 20-minute walk from the Gate 3 pedestrian entrance.

Parking: Parking is available onsite at Maitland Showground for a $15 donation per vehicle to the ABCRA. All vehicles must enter via Gate 1 on Anzac Street.

Pedestrian Entry: Pedestrians should enter the Showground via Gate 3 on Wallace Street.

Competitor Entry: Competitors should enter via Gate 6, accessed from Louth Park Road.

QUICK FAQs

For full event information, please visit our FAQ page.

  • No BYO alcohol or food is permitted.
  • Bag checks will be conducted on arrival, so we recommend allowing additional time when entering the venue.
  • General Admission ticket holders have access to the venue grandstands, but seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is not guaranteed.
  • For a guaranteed seat close to the action, we recommend purchasing a Ringside Seating upgrade or VIP ticket.

For all competitor and sponsorship applications, please follow the relevant links below.

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