The Monticello Advertising and Promotion Commission approved $7,500 to support the 2026 Monticello Rodeo, scheduled for Sept. 18–19, with organizer Colleen Hammock seeking higher “added money” to draw competitors.
Hammock told commissioners last year’s event drew more than 500 people per night and inspired nearby towns, including Star City, to host similar rodeos. The Monticello purse had been about $3,600 across nine events — well below the roughly $10,000 similar rodeos offer — while gate proceeds largely cover a $10,000 stock-contractor cost. The approved package earmarks $6,500 for added prize money and $1,000 for related expenses from the commission’s festivals account.
Commissioners also heard that Spring on the Square already had 33 vendors and 12 food trucks committed, and noted a bass tournament on Lake Monticello set for May 16 after the lake reopened.
Sources: Advance Monticellonian — A&P Commission approves funding for rodeo (April 2, 2026); Deltaplex News.
