Louisiana’s Angola Prison Rodeo Attracts Nearly 70,000 People Each Year

(BATON ROUGE, La) — Sitting on 18,000 acres is Louisiana State Penitentiary, which hosts the Angola Prison Rodeo each year.  The rodeo started back in 1967, known to many as “The Wildest Show in the South.” Now it is a fundraising event for the prison’s rehabilitation programs and a reward for qualifying inmates. It brings in 70,000 people each year to enjoy crafts, food, and a show.

“This is my first time here at the Angola Rodeo. And what I like most is the food. Food from everywhere. I did like the little vendors, I love the rodeo. It was a good time, very family oriented,” Michelle, from Baker, Louisiana, told The Click.

People also travel from all over to compete in the rodeo. The Click spoke with this year’s Rodeo Queen who was competing at the event.

“I’m from Poplarville Mississippi, and I’m here because I won Rodeo Queen,” she said. “I’m competing here. I do barrel racing, pole bending, and arena race, and it’s my first time here. … My rodeo association is letting us compete in the grand entry.”

The first rodeo arena was built in 1969 and held roughly 4,500 people. Now, the rodeo arena can hold more than 10,000 attendees at one time. Participation in the rodeo is awarded to inmates with good behavior. Inmates are able to earn money, sell crafts, and take part in different rodeo events.

The Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola) holds the highest number of prisoners serving life without parole. It is the largest maximum security prison in the U.S.