A cowboy riding a bucking horse in a rodeo arena with a crowd watching from bleachers and mountains in the background.

where tradition meets the wallowa mountains

For nearly 80 years, Chief Joseph Days Rodeo has brought generations together in

Joseph, Oregon for six unforgettable days of Western celebration

our history

A black and white photo of a group of people standing in front of an airplane with the words 'Chief Joseph Days, Joseph, Oregon' written on it. The group includes men and women wearing vintage clothing, some in cowboy hats, others in plaid shirts, and a man holding posters or signs related to the event.

Founded in 1946, Chief Joseph Days Rodeo began with a simple purpose: to bring the community together and celebrate the Western way of life.
Over the decades, it has grown into one of the Northwest’s most beloved PRCA rodeos — honored as a Top 5 PRCA Medium Rodeo in the nation and a Columbia River Circuit Medium Rodeo of the Year winner five times.

Named in honor of Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce Tribe, our rodeo takes pride in honoring the culture, history, and beauty of the Wallowa Valley.
Today, Chief Joseph Days is run by a dedicated all-volunteer committee, supported by local families, sponsors, and the incredible people who keep this tradition alive.

Learn more about Harley Tucker
Learn more about Chief Joseph
A smiling man in a white shirt and cowboy hat leaning on a blue rodeo barrier, with part of another cowboy's hat visible in the foreground. The barrier has promotional stickers for pro rodeo organizations.
A young woman smiling and raising her hand while sitting on a sheep at a rodeo event, with four adults in cowboy hats and western attire watching and smiling.

our mission

Chief Joseph Days Rodeo is a nonprofit organization committed to:

  • Preserving the Western tradition and rodeo heritage

  • Supporting youth, education, agriculture, and local families

  • Providing scholarships and community donations

  • Hosting world-class Western entertainment

  • Creating an inclusive, welcoming, family-friendly event for all

This event is more than a rodeo — it’s part of who we are as a community.

The people behind the rodeo

  • An elderly man smiling, wearing a white cowboy hat and a black button-up shirt with patches, standing in front of a red wooden background.

    Terry Jones, President

    Terry's life is firmly anchored in Lostine, where he grew up and later attended Eastern Oregon University. He joined the family business, Jones Excavating, after college, where he worked alongside his father, Larry. His deep connection to rodeo began when his daughter, Teah, was part of the Chief Joseph Days court in 1991.

    Terry's commitment to rodeo has been unwavering. He became a rodeo committee member and director in 2008. Each winter, he handles rodeo contracts, including those for the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. During Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, he oversees the Harley Tucker Rodeo Arena, ensuring the event's success.

    Terry's legacy is a testament to his dedication to rodeo and his community.

    Term: 2023-2026

    Duties: Arena, contract personnel, national sponsors, grand entry, awards, insurance, hay/livestock, circuit representative, and Harley Tucker Series award.

  • An elderly man with a cowboy hat and a dark shirt standing in front of a red wooden wall.

    Steve Rogers, Vice President

    Steve Rogers found his way to Wallowa County in 1995, starting his career as a Deputy Sheriff. But it didn't take long for the rodeo spirit to captivate him. Drafted to volunteer at the rodeo, Steve's journey with Chief Joseph Days began.

    Over the years, he's donned various hats, serving as a director and even taking on the role of chairman when his Sheriff, Fred Steen, was in charge. Steve's dedication extends to the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, where he collaborates with veterinarians, medical staff, and security to ensure a safe and successful event.

    This rodeo enthusiast served as Wallowa County Sheriff from 2012 to 2020, showcasing his commitment to both his community and the rodeo legacy.

    Term: 2026-2029

    Duties: EMT’s & Ambulance, Veterinarians, Sanitary (Garbage), Bucking Horse Stampede, Work Parties, Added Money Sponsors, Hall of Fame, Specialty Act/Bullfighter Sponsors

  • A woman with blonde hair and glasses, smiling, standing against a red wooden wall, wearing a black jacket with a yellow and red logo and a red shirt underneath.

    Sara Tippet, Treasurer

    Sara's roots run deep in Wallowa County. Having grown up in the heart of Enterprise, she attended Enterprise High School and later pursued her education in Walla Walla. Upon obtaining her degree, Sara decided to return to her cherished hometown.

    Currently, she's an invaluable asset to the community as the branch manager at Community Bank. Her commitment extends beyond her role as she's been deeply involved with Chief Joseph Days. Notably, she graced the CJD court in 2006, igniting her passion for giving back.

    In her free time, Sara finds solace in the embrace of family and friends. Her dedication to Wallowa County embodies the spirit of a true local loyalist.

    Term: 2024-2027

    Duties: Hospitality Room & Sponsors, Souvenirs (with Maggie Z.), Marketing Coordinator, Rentals, Volunteer Shirts & Hats, Stagecoach, Royalty Court (w/JD), Past Courts, Queens Luncheon, Coronation, Annual Christmas Party, Tuesday Night Kickoff Dinner

  • A woman with red hair in a braid, wearing a white cowboy hat and a black jacket with patches, standing in front of a red wooden wall.

    Teah Jones, Secretary

    Wallowa County has always been home to Teah, who's deeply rooted in this charming community. After her high school graduation at Wallowa High School, Teah embarked on an educational journey. She attained her bachelor's and master's degrees in education from the University of Idaho.

    But where does her heart truly lie? Right here in the heart of Wallowa County. For the past 23 years, she's been a dedicated English teacher at Enterprise High School, shaping the minds of countless students with her wisdom and passion.

    Teah's connection with Chief Joseph Days runs deep; in 1991, she graced the CJD court as a court member. Her enthusiasm for rodeo also led her to serve as Miss Rodeo Oregon in 1997, where she even earned the prestigious title of the first runner-up at the Miss Rodeo America contest.

    For the last decade, Teah has served as the "stylist" for the CJD court, ensuring they always look their best. She's also led the Tuckerettes, a role she has cherished.

    In her rare moments of free time, Teah revels in raising her three spirited teenagers - Trace, Tegan, and Tylee. The family's love extends to their many farm animals, and Teah's been known to spend time at Ember's Brewhouse.

    Term: 2025-2028

    Duties: Programs, Official Poster, Court Sponsors, Director Shirts & Jackets, TETWP & Sponsors, Boar’s Nest, Teen Dance, National Anthem Singers, Vodka & Wine Sponsors

  • A man with a beard and mustache wearing a white cowboy hat, a black shirt with a badge that reads 'Chief Joseph Day,' and a yellow and red emblem on the pocket, smiling in front of a red wooden wall.

    Hadley Hawkins

    Hadley Hawkins, born in eastern Oregon, grew up spending time on the Hawkins family cattle ranch, fostering a love for rodeo from an early age influenced by rodeo competitors in the family. Hadley moved to Wallowa County in 1990, regularly attending Chief Joseph Days and met his future wife, ShanRae Hook, in the north grandstands during a rodeo. Beyond the arena, Hadley served as a U.S. Forest Service wildland firefighter, volunteered in the Enterprise Fire Department, and later retired as a Special Agent. He currently owns a company training law enforcement agencies and military around the world. He and ShanRae take great pride in raising their two sons, Grayson and Brogan, in Wallowa County.

    Term: 2025-2028

    Director Duties: Security, Grants, Ranch Rodeo, Cowboy Church, Scholarships, All Around Awards & Sponsors

  • Man wearing a cowboy hat and a beige button-up shirt with a red logo, standing in front of a wooden fence.

    Jake Thompson

    From Enterprise, Jake has always had a strong bond with the local community. After graduating high school, he ventured to Walla Walla, Washington, for college. However, the call of home was undeniable, and he returned to Enterprise after completing his degree. His journey led him to the city of Joseph, where he dedicated seven years of hard work. Currently, Jake shines as the project manager for Wallowa Lake Service District. When he's not busy managing projects, you can find him sharing outdoor adventures with his wife, Chelsi, and their son, Jace. Jake is also passionate about coaching basketball at Joseph Charter School, nurturing young talent. A committed volunteer, he's been an invaluable part of Chief Joseph Days Rodeo since 2008, assuming a director role in 2019. His unwavering dedication exemplifies the true spirit of community.

    Term: 2023-2026

    Duties: Beer Gardens, Chute gate Signs & Sponsors, Arena Signs & Banners, Alcohol/Whiskey & Sponsors (with Rusty), Arena Gates & Sponsors, Safe & Sober Bus.

  • A man wearing a large cowboy hat and a black button-up shirt with a logo, standing in front of a red wooden wall, smiling at the camera.

    JD Clay

    JD is relatively new to Wallowa County having grown up in a military family and serving all over the world himself as an Army Apache pilot. He and his wife, Dany, who is also heavily involved in volunteering, live in and own a business in Joseph. JD has been volunteering for Chief Joseph Days for many years now.

    Term: 2025-2028

    Duties: Tickets, Utilities, Long-Term Planning, Indian Encampment, Royalty Court, Office, and Cowboy Breakfast.

  • An older man with white hair and a beard wearing a white cowboy hat, sunglasses, and a black shirt with a badge logo, standing in front of a red wooden wall.

    JJ Jones

    JJ and his wife moved to Enterprise in 2021. After vacationing in Joseph since 1996, the time had finally come to retire to Wallowa County. JJ has been volunteering with Chief Joseph Days for many years. JJ spent 20 years on the Kitsap County Fair and Stampede committee in Silverdale, WA.

    Term: 2025-2028

    Duties: Mobile equipment, sound/scoreboard, buckaroo rodeo, autograph booth, parking and timed event production.

  • Man smiling wearing a cowboy hat and black shirt with a patch, standing in front of a red wooden wall.

    Rusty Eschler

    Rusty's journey to Wallowa County is rooted in family traditions and an enduring love for this beautiful place. He graduated from Joseph High School in 1979, attended Mt. Hood Community College, and worked for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the Columbia Gorge. Rusty's rodeo adventure began in 1995, inspired by his mother's role as the rodeo committee's secretary. Today, he plays a vital role in overseeing the Thunder Room, scholarships, and the Back Country Bash. It's a family affair, with his son, Randall, his daughter, Robin, and his wife, Rene', all dedicated volunteers during Chief Joseph Days.

    Term: 2023-2026

    Duties: Thunder Room & Sponsors, VIP Rooms, Family Night& Sponsors, Alcohol/Whiskey & sponsors (with Jake), Outside events coordinator

  • Man smiling, wearing a straw cowboy hat and a black shirt with a patch on the pocket that says Chef Joseph Parris, standing in front of a red wooden background.

    Levi Tickner

    Levi Tickner moved to Wallowa County in 2019 to become the Public Works Supervisor for the City of Joseph. He brought along his wife, Miranda Tickner, who joined the CJD team in 2021, as well as their horses and dogs. Together, they're all about the outdoors – hunting, packing, adventuring, and rodeo are their jam.

    Although Levi isn't originally from Wallowa County, his heart has always been in the rodeo scene. He has competed in Wild Horse Racing and worked with stock contractors. When Miranda became involved with the Tuckerettes in 2019, Levi eagerly volunteered for CJD. Now, he's excited to step into his new role as a director, aiming to honor tradition while bringing fresh ideas to the mix. Levi Tickner is ready to keep the spirit of the West alive and thriving in Wallowa County.'

    Terms: 2025-2028

    Duties: Rodeo grounds vendors, Tuckerettes, Sponsor Flags, Miss Rodeo Oregon, Parades & Sponsors, Main Street Flags

  • A middle-aged man wearing a white cowboy hat and a black shirt with a badge that reads 'Chief Joseph Day's Joseph, Oregon,' standing in front of a red wooden background.

    Mike Warner

    Mike and his family became cherished members of the Wallowa Valley community when he took on the role of postmaster at the Joseph post office in 1993. The very next year, he embarked on his Chief Joseph Days journey, offering his unwavering support. From then on, he's donned various hats as a committee chair and director. Mike's dedication even extended to serving as the chamber president in 1997 and 1998. Rodeo life became a family affair, with his sons learning the ropes during summers at the rodeo grounds, and his wife, Kathy, joining in the volunteering spirit

    Term: 2026-2029

    Duties: Water and sponsors, arena grooming, grounds, Wildhorse Resort & Casino, grand marshal, mutton busting, hay/livestock, hat sponsor, event sponsors & permanent signs, and campground.

  • A woman riding a horse at a rodeo, holding an American flag, with a crowd of spectators in the background.

    Miranda Tickner

    Miranda Tickner is the Marketing & Social Media Coordinator and Executive Assistant for Chief Joseph Days Rodeo. She manages all marketing efforts, sponsorship coordination, digital content, and office operations, supporting the board of directors and helping keep the rodeo running smoothly year-round. With a lifelong passion for rodeo and the Western lifestyle, Miranda is dedicated to preserving the heritage of Chief Joseph Days while helping the event continue to grow for future generations.

the tuckerettes

meet the 2025 tuckerettes

  • Casidee Harrod

  • Briana Micka

  • Elli Bates

  • Maddie Wigen

  • Harlie Stein

  • Colbi Cunningham

  • Cassie Harris

  • Jorja Jones

Since 1994, the CJD Tuckerettes have been a dynamic and beloved part of Chief Joseph Days Rodeo. Named in honor of Harley Tucker, one of the visionaries behind the creation of our rodeo in 1946, the Tuckerettes carry forward a tradition of horsemanship, spirit, and precision.

These skilled riders electrify the arena each summer with flag runs, fast turns, and synchronized patterns, opening our PRCA performances with energy and pride.
They represent the Western lifestyle, honor our roots, and inspire the next generation of young horsewomen in Wallowa County.

A woman riding a horse and holding a flag at a rodeo in the late afternoon or early evening, with a crowd of spectators and a rodeo arena in the background.
A woman riding a horse at a rodeo, holding a large red flag that reads 'Scolts Corral Joseph, Oregon,' with a crowd watching in the background.
A woman riding a horse at a rodeo, holding a flag that reads 'Benchmade U.S.A.' with mountains in the background.
A woman in cowboy attire, riding a brown horse, waving a large flag, at a rodeo event with mountains in the background.
A woman riding a horse at a rodeo, holding a flag that reads 'Horse Casino' with mountain scenery in the background and an American flag on a pole.
A rodeo arena with two cowboys riding horses. One cowboy is waving a flag that reads 'Wildfire Resort & Spa.' A large crowd is seated in the stands, and mountains are visible in the background.
Person riding a horse on a dirt track, holding a flag, in an outdoor rodeo or country event with mountains in the background.
A rodeo arena with a cowboy riding a bucking horse, holding a flag that reads 'Surface Family,' during a rodeo event with spectators in the stands and mountains in the background.
Cowboy riding a bucking horse at a rodeo, waving a flag, in front of a crowd in the stands.
A rodeo arena filled with spectators, two cowboys riding horses, and a woman on a horseback holding a red flag in a rodeo event.
A woman riding a horse at a rodeo, holding flags and wearing a cowboy hat, with a rural background.
Cowboy riding a buckskin horse on dirt arena, waving a black flag, with audience in the stands.
Cowgirl riding a horse during a rodeo, holding a flag, with spectators watching in the background.
A cowboy riding a horse and holding a black flag with white letters at a rodeo event.
A young female rodeo rider on a brown horse holding a large red flag with the Joseph, Oregon rodeo emblem. Behind her, another rider on a horse waves and smiles. A crowd of spectators watches from the stands.
A woman in western attire riding a horse and waving a blue flag at a rodeo arena during sunset.
Riders on horseback holding flags and other riders on horseback in the background at a rodeo arena with spectators standing behind the fence and vendors' booths in the background.
A cowboy riding a horse on a dirt rodeo arena, waving a red flag that says 'Sports Corral Joseph Oregon'. Spectators are in the stands with mountains in the background.
Rodeo arena with three cowboys on horseback, each carrying a flag, competing at the Harley Tucker Memorial Arena. Spectators are watching from the stands in front of a wooden building. Banners from sponsors like Wrangler are displayed along the fenci
Women cowboys riding horses in a rodeo, waving flags that say 'RAM' and 'Cortez', with spectators watching from the stands. Branding in the background shows 'Chief Joseph Days' in Joseph, Oregon.
Three rodeo cowboys on horses holding flags racing on a dirt arena, with spectators and wooden structures in the background.
Two cowboys riding horses on a dirt rodeo arena, one holding a flag and the other a banner, with spectators watching from the stands in the background.
A female cowboy riding a brown horse on a dirt rodeo arena, holding a black flag with a white logo, with spectators in the background.
A vintage black-and-white photograph of seven Native American women and girls, dressed in traditional attire with jewelry, sitting and standing outdoors in front of a studio backdrop.
A Native American person dressed in traditional clothing, standing outdoors next to a rock, with cloudy sky in the background.

honoring chief joseph

Our rodeo proudly carries the name of Hinmatóowyalahtq̓it — Chief Joseph, leader of the Wallowa Band of the Nez Perce.
Each year, we honor his legacy and the deep roots of the Nez Perce people in the Wallowa Valley through our opening ceremonies, grand entry, and community partnerships.

We are committed to celebrating this history with respect, gratitude, and authenticity.

Learn More About Our Friendship Feast & Encampment

RECOGNITION

Chief Joseph Days Rodeo is honored to have received:

  • PRCA Columbia River Circuit Medium Rodeo of the Year — 5x

  • Top 5 PRCA Medium Rodeo of the Year (National)

  • Featured in Western Horseman & Cowboys & Indians

  • Recognized for community excellence through Sowing Good Deeds finalist placement

This tradition of excellence reflects the dedication of our volunteers, sponsors, contestants, and fans.

A poster announcing the 2025 Medium Rodeo of the Year at the Columbia River Circuit, featuring a photograph of a rodeo arena with bucking broncos and spectators, mountains in the background, and various sponsor banners.
Poster celebrating Chief Joseph Days Rodeo winning 3rd consecutive Medium Rodeo of the Year in 2024 by PRCA Columbia River Circuit. Features a photograph of a rodeo event with cowboys and a bucking horse, surrounded by gold laurel leaves on a dark background.
Poster for the 2023 PRCA Medium Rodeo of the Year featuring a rodeo event with a bull rider, set against a purple background with decorative elements.
Announcement for the 2023 PRCA Awards finalists, highlighting the top 5 nominee PRCA Medium Rodeo of the Year.
Rodeo scene with cowboys on horseback and a calf on dirt rodeo arena, audience seated in stands, sign reading 'Memorial Arena', text overlay stating '2022 PRCA Medium Rodeo of the Year' and a caption about Chief Joseph Days Rodeo winning Medium Rodeo of the Year for the PRCA Columbia River Circuit.

OUR HOME ARENA

The iconic Harley Tucker Memorial Arena is home to all four PRCA performances and the heart of Chief Joseph Days.
Surrounded by cattle pens, vendor alleys, and the breathtaking Wallowa Mountains, it provides a one-of-a-kind rodeo backdrop that draws contestants and fans from across the country.

Ongoing improvements — including arena lighting upgrades and hospitality enhancements — ensure we continue offering a safe and exceptional experience for years to come.

A rodeo arena with a group of riders on horseback holding flags, an audience in the stands, and a mountainous landscape in the background.
DIRECTIONS

BE PART OF TRADITION

Whether you’re cheering from the stands, volunteering behind the scenes, or supporting as a sponsor, you’re helping keep Chief Joseph Days strong for future generations.

Volunteer
Become A Sponsor
View Scholarships
Contact Us

Contact us.

chiefjosephdays@gmail.com

541-432-1015

401 N Main Street

Joseph, OR 97846

80th Anniversary Commemorative Buckle – Preorder 80th Anniversary Commemorative Buckle – Preorder
80th Anniversary Commemorative Buckle – Preorder
$250.00

Celebrate 80 years of Chief Joseph Days with this limited-edition commemorative buckle, expertly crafted by Montana Silversmiths exclusively for our 80th Anniversary.

Designed with an antique silver engraved base, gold-tone accents, and ruby stones representing 80 years of tradition, this buckle is both a functional keepsake and a collector’s piece. Each buckle will be individually numbered on the back, making every piece truly one of a kind.

Details:

Official 80th Anniversary commemorative buckle

Crafted by Montana Silversmiths

Antique silver engraved base

Ruby stone accents symbolizing 80 years

Buckle size: 3.5” x 4.5”

Limited inventory, preorder only

Each buckle numbered on the back

Numbering & Selection Process:

Once buckles are received and prior to shipping or pickup, customers will be contacted and given the opportunity to select from the remaining available numbers. Number selection will be offered in the order that preorders were received, ensuring a fair and transparent process.

Preorder & Delivery Information:

Buckles are expected to arrive May 2026

Choose free local pickup at the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo Office in Joseph, Oregon

Or select shipping at checkout for an additional fee

This buckle is a lasting tribute to the legacy of Chief Joseph Days and a meaningful way to commemorate our 80th Anniversary.