Episode #9:
This year, we’ll make Cheyenne Frontier Days history as we welcome country music artist Ian Munsick to the Frontier Nights stage—marking the first time one of Wyoming’s own will headline a night show at The Daddy of ‘em All!
As Ian famously shared on stage during his sold-out show at Red Rocks, “My [second] goal is to headline Cheyenne Frontier Days. Ball is in your court, Cheyenne Frontier Days; 2025, what do you say?”
The rest, as they say, is history… or will be, here in a few weeks.
Former Miss Frontier Tara Vreeland brings Ian back to that moment for the story behind that now-infamous statement, plus finds out:
How Ian’s Wyoming roots have shaped his path as an artist and the music he’s created
What the crowd can expect when Ian takes the stage—and what surprises might be in store
How Ian hopes fans feel coming away from his shows
Brand-new and longtime fans alike can brush up on Ian’s extensive music catalog right here, and catch him live in Cheyenne, Wyoming, as he kicks off the 129th Cheyenne Frontier Days celebration on Friday, July 18! Tickets available now at https://cfdrodeo.com/.
Stream The Official Podcast of Cheyenne Frontier Days any time, anywhere, on: SPOTIFY | APPLE
Cheyenne Frontier Days (CFD), in partnership with creative agency West Edge, announces the launch of the Official VR App of Cheyenne Frontier Days, an immersive virtual reality journey that brings the spirit of the World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo and Western Celebration into homes and classrooms around the globe.
As part of the Celebration’s “Trail Guide to the Future,” the interactive Official VR App invites users to explore Frontier Park, learn the history of CFD and witness the excitement of the rodeo all from their Meta Quest headset.
“This technology meets people where they are and expands the way we connect with new generations of rodeo fans,” said Tom Hirsig, CEO of Cheyenne Frontier Days. “It’s fun. It’s free, and it’s the perfect blend of old west meets new west. A modern tribute to our historic roots.”
Available now via the Meta Horizons Store, the Official VR App of Cheyenne Frontier Days offers 360-degree interactive video and storytelling moments which highlight the rodeo, parades, Native American Indian Village and behind-the-scenes areas typically not seen by the public. Users without a headset can also explore 360° experiences online at tour.cfdrodeo.com.
“The VR project with CFD is about accessibility and imagination,” said Jesse Sevier, Managing Director at West Edge. “For those who can’t make it to Cheyenne, we’re bringing the magic to them—with the same heart and grit that make the live experience so unforgettable.”
While VR users can experience the annual event all year long, this year’s Cheyenne Frontier Days celebration runs July 18-27, 2025, and will feature nine days of PRCA professional rodeo, concluding with Championship Sunday as well as hundreds of vendors, a full carnival, artists, food, and music celebrating the history and culture of the American West.
And that, folks, is the thrill of bull riding.
Episode #8:
Not so long ago, the gentlemen you’ll meet today were your average trio of Wyoming-grown buddies, catching up and crossing paths in various rodeo circles.
Today, one is the CEO of Cheyenne Frontier Days (Tom Hirsig); another’s been the Cheyenne Frontier Days arena medic for going on 38 years (Dr. Skip Ross); and the third is a former National Finals Rodeo (NFR) bull rider (Dennis Humphrey).
Through it all, they’ve held strong to their friendship, including their shared ties to rodeo.
Today, you’ll get to listen in as they recount some of their favorite stories. Find out:
Stream The Official Podcast of Cheyenne Frontier Days any time, anywhere, on: SPOTIFY | APPLE
Cheyenne Frontier Days (CFD), the World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo and Western Celebration, announces the United States Air Force Thunderbirds will return to the 129th annual “Daddy of ’em All” for a special weekend performance on Saturday, July 26.
Traditionally held midweek, the aerial demonstration team will headline the Wings Over Wyoming Airshow from 11 a.m. to noon during this year’s Saturday showcase. The team’s elite pilots perform aerial maneuvers with just inches between wingtips, demonstrating the capabilities of the U.S. Air Force, which made their first public appearance at CFD in 1953.
By moving the show to Saturday, the Thunderbirds are hoping a larger crowd will be able to attend, as well as increase opportunities for the Thunderbirds to interact with CFD customers both on the park and at our downtown events.
Held at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, directly adjacent to Frontier Park, this free public event offers rodeo-goers and aviation fans the chance to witness the aerial showcase. The one-hour airshow will also feature a lineup of aircraft and skydivers, and attendees will be treated to food trucks, inflatable games, and static displays of Blackhawk and Huey helicopters.
“The Thunderbirds are a cherished part of the Cheyenne Frontier Days tradition,” said Colonel Jonathan Esses. “We’re thrilled to bring this incredible experience to fans on a Saturday – making it even more accessible to more visitors attending CFD events.”
The show is drive-in style, with all public access through Roundtop Road. Valid photo ID is required, and vehicles are subject to security checks. Distinguished Visitors with a valid pass may use Gate 5 on Central Avenue for designated DV parking.
One of Cheyenne Frontier Days’ most enduring connections is our partnership with the military,
a relationship woven into the fabric of our celebration since the very first parade.
Around here, tradition runs deep; the stories—and, sometimes, the horses—run wild; and community runs strong above all.
One of the most enduring connections is our partnership with the military, a relationship woven into the fabric of our celebration since the very first parade.
Today, your host Tara Vreeland—former Miss Frontier and current CFD marketing team member—welcomes two distinguished former military chairmen, Tucker Fagan and Hans Ritschard, for a heartwarming and humorous conversation about the enduring connection between F.E. Warren Air Force Base and Cheyenne Frontier Days.
Find out:
Why you’ll always see a tank in the arena on Military Monday—and the story behind how the tradition got started
How CFD changes the lives of young airmen stationed in Cheyenne
The legacy behind Tucker’s beloved 1996 CFD jacket
Stream The Official Podcast of Cheyenne Frontier Days any time, anywhere, on: SPOTIFY | APPLE
Cheyenne Frontier Days is thrilled to announce its final addition to the 2025 lineup: Jordan Davis with special guest Brett Young on Saturday, July 19! Jordan Davis, known for hits like Next Thing You Know and Buy Dirt and Brett Young, celebrated for his soulful voice and chart-topping songs, will deliver a performance that will leave audiences eager for more. Tickets for this highly anticipated concert will be available April 15 at 9 a.m. The full 2025 Frontier Nights line up now includes:
July 18: Ian Munsick with Travis Tritt
July 19: Jordan Davis with Brett Young
July 20: Bailey Zimmerman with Josh Ross
July 21-22: PRCA Xtreme Bulls
July 23: Brooks & Dunn with Chancey Williams
July 24: Luke Bryan with Priscilla Block
July 25: Cody Johnson with Randy Houser
July 26: Megan Moroney with TBD
July 19-27: PRCA Rodeo
Prices range from $39.50 – $134, rooftop starts at $200, and Tunes on the Terrace range from $225 – $275. Xtreme Bulls tickets range from $25 – $95. A $5 discount is offered on concert tickets purchased before July 1. Fans can upgrade to a Frontier Nights® Fast Pass for early admission to the Party Zone.
Rodeo, Carnival Armbands, and Gift Cards on sale December 5
Cheyenne Frontier Days ™ (CFD) will start sales for the 2025 event on sale December 5. Tickets for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Rodeo, Carnival Armbands and Gift Cards (redeemable for tickets or merchandise) will go on sale.
Tickets go on sale December 5 at 9 a.m. MST at www.cfdrodeo.com, and by calling (307) 778-7222.
The 129th annual “Daddy of ‘em All ® ” will feature nine days of fast-paced rodeo featuring PRCA and WPRA competitors with winners every day. Those who move ahead in this tournament-style format will compete on Championship Sunday where champions are crowned, and buckles are awarded.
There will be hundreds of vendors, a full carnival, artists, food, and music celebrating the history and culture of the American West.
Daily rodeo tickets range from $24 – $52, with VIP at an additional cost. A $3 discount is offered on rodeo tickets purchased before July 1. Carnival Armbands will be $40 per session or $155 for all 10 days.
Cheyenne Frontier Days partners with AXS, a global leader in ticketing for the entertainment world. Event attendees will use AXS Mobile ID technology through the AXS App which provides contactless, secure, and personalized fan experiences. Attendees will need to download the AXS App to access digital ticket purchases for 2025.
The concert artist announcements are coming in March 2025. For the full range of pricing and more event information, please visit www.cfdrodeo.com.
The tryouts for the official drill team will take place in the rodeo arena at 1 p.m. on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
Cheyenne Frontier Days (CFD), the World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo and Western Celebration, announces tryout dates for the 2025 Dandies drill team. Tryouts are open to young women from Wyoming and Colorado ages 14-19 and will be held in the CFD arena at 1230 W. 8th Avenue, Cheyenne, WY on Sunday, September 29, 2024 at 1 p.m.
“We’re thrilled to hold this tryout each year. We welcome returning Dandies and new girls in the horsemanship community who want to be a part of this prestigious team,” said Dandy Director, Halley Redman. “Being a Dandy is an incredible experience for these young ladies. The skills they learn – from horseback riding to public speaking – will benefit them beyond the rodeo world.”
Young woman interested in joining the team must own or lease a horse and be willing to travel. Tryout requirements include:
The young women selected for next year’s Dandies will serve as good will ambassadors for Cheyenne Frontier Days. They represent CFD at rodeos, fairs, and events throughout the Rocky Mountain Region – including Casper, Estes Park, and Greeley. During the annual 10-day event, which will take place July 18-27, 2025, the Dandies participate in the rodeo performances and each of downtown parades. Additionally, they will attend the Coronation Ball, the Western Art Show and Sale, pancake breakfasts, and the USAF Thunderbird Aerial Demonstration.
“Being a Dandy is a commitment,” said Redman. “The Dandies and their families dedicate a large amount of time throughout the year to practices and meetings along with the CFD functions, parades and rodeos. You’re all in as a Dandy. We’re excited to meet the young women interested in joining the team.”
A makeup tryout will be Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at 6 p.m. for those who are unable to attend on September 29.
For more information, please email dandies.director@cfdrodeo.com.
Katherine Olson has been named Cheyenne Frontier Days (CFD) Lady-In-Waiting 2025 after a selection process including submitting a written application, an accomplishment book, a horsemanship skills demonstration, and an interview.
Katherine is the daughter of Mike and Sheri Olson. She is a 2023 graduate of Burns High School. Olson has been involved in many agricultural pursuits through 4-H, FFA, and competitively exhibiting livestock on a local, state and national level. Currently, she is attending the University of Wyoming, where she is pursuing a degree in Animal Science with an emphasis in production.
Katherine considers herself a first-generation Cheyenne Frontier Days volunteer. Her passion for horses, the rodeo lifestyle, and western values made the Dandies an ideal fit. Katherine’s dedication as Cheyenne Frontier Days Dandy team member, drill leader, and most recently as Assistant Director demonstrates her commitment to excellence in the arena and in the community.
“As the new CFD Miss Lady-In-Waiting, I am ready to promote the esteemed reputation of Cheyenne Frontier Days, champion the traditions of our western heritage, and hold true to the volunteer spirit that has enabled Cheyenne Frontier Days to prosper for 128 years and counting. I am ready to be part of the legendary Daddy of ‘em All that hosts, educates, inspires and entertains a global audience,” Katherine said.
Katherine Olson will work with Miss Frontier, Haylie Turley in 2025 to represent Cheyenne Frontier Days
The Cheyenne Frontier Days™ (CFD) General Committee has named its new committee members for the 2025 celebration.
Following Contract Acts Chairman Scott Lewis is Mike “Wilkie” Wilkinson. Wilkinson is a Risk and Safety Officer for the City of Cheyenne. He has volunteered on the Contract Acts Committee for 12 years and has been a committee lead for three years. Wilkinson was nominated as Volunteer of the Year in 2018, and he was inducted into the HEELS Organization in 2022.
Bill Oates will be replacing Mariah Johnson as Indians Chairman. Oates is a Senior Network Engineer at the Wyoming Department of Transportation. He has been a volunteer on the Indians Committee since 2003 and has been a committee lead for six years. Oates was nominated Indians Committee Volunteer of the Year in 2017.
“We are excited to have Mike and Bill join the General Committee, both individuals are very accomplished within their respective committees; and they will help lead CFD into the future,” John Contos, CFD General Chairman said. “Thank you to Scott Lewis and Mariah Johnson, outgoing chairmen, for their long-standing commitment to our organization.”
The Cheyenne Frontier Days General Committee has already begun the planning process for the 129th Cheyenne Frontier Days.