By Lori Smith
Freeport’s hometown rodeo is back — and it’s more than just a night of bulls, broncs and barrel racing. The 7th Annual Westonwood Ranch Pro Rodeo returns March 27–28 at the Freeport Regional Sports Complex, bringing high-energy entertainment to the community while raising vital support for one of Walton County’s most meaningful nonprofit missions.
Presented in partnership with the Walton County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Freeport, the two-night event invites families from across the Emerald Coast to gather for live rodeo action, music, food vendors and kid-friendly fun — all while helping teens and young adults with developmental differences build brighter futures.
Doors open at 6 p.m. each evening, with Professional Cowboy Association performances kicking off at 7:30 p.m. Fans can expect classic rodeo events including bareback bronc riding, steer wrestling, breakaway roping, ladies barrel racing, team roping and bull riding. Children’s activities, bounce houses and local vendors will add to the festive, family-focused atmosphere.
Tickets are sold at the gate only, with proceeds directly supporting Westonwood Ranch programs that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Freeport and throughout Northwest Florida.
More Than a Rodeo: The Heart Behind Westonwood Ranch
While the rodeo has become a beloved local tradition, its true purpose goes far beyond the arena lights. Westonwood Ranch is a Freeport-based nonprofit dedicated to helping teens and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain life skills, job training and independence through hands-on, real-world experiences.
Located on a holistic ranch campus along U.S. Highway 20, Westonwood provides vocational training, functional learning opportunities and social enterprises that build confidence and prepare participants for meaningful employment. Programs focus on recognizing “ability over disability,” giving individuals the tools they need to thrive and live productive, independent lives.
Through farm-based activities, animal care, vocational training and structured life-skills programs, participants experience daily victories — mastering new tasks, developing friendships and discovering their unique potential.
A Growing Impact
Westonwood Ranch has become a vital resource for families across Walton and Okaloosa counties, filling a critical transition gap between high school and adulthood for individuals with developmental differences.
The organization’s impact continues to expand. Recent investments and community support are helping fund new training spaces and future supportive housing initiatives designed to create inclusive living environments where young adults can work, learn and build lasting friendships.
Events like the annual rodeo play a key role in making that growth possible, bringing neighbors together while raising funds that sustain programs year-round.
Whether you’re a longtime rodeo fan or simply looking for a unique way to spend a spring evening in Freeport, the Westonwood Ranch Rodeo offers something for everyone — from thrilling cowboy competition to community connection.
But at its core, the event is about celebrating inclusion and creating opportunities for individuals who often face barriers to independence.
For more information about Westonwood Ranch or its upcoming rodeo, visit westonwood.org.
