Country Thunder Arizona is bringing a new kind of adrenaline to the desert this year with the debut of Buckin’ Thunder Pro Bull Riding — an electrifying addition to the festival experience. Set to take over AZ Talio Ranch in Florence from April 9 through 12, this year’s Country Thunder Arizona lineup includes superstar headliners Lainey Wilson, Zach Top, Brooks & Dunn, and Gavin Adcock.
In partnership with RS Rodeo (a Phoenix-based, cowboy-friendly rodeo production company and official partner of the National Senior Pro Rodeo Association), Country Thunder Arizona will host a sanctioned National Senior Pro Bull Riding event, where seasoned cowboys — including current and former world champions — will compete for coveted buckles daily and earn points toward their rodeo standings. What sets Buckin’ Thunder apart is the competitors themselves: every rider is 40 or older, with some athletes continuing to compete into their sixties. Lifelong cowboys with decades of experience, they’ve returned to the arena not just to win — but for their enduring love of the sport.
Buckin’ Thunder will take place on Friday (4/10) and Saturday (4/11) at 1 p.m., and on Sunday (4/12) at 1:30 p.m. Additional details — including participating cowboys, bull fighters, and rodeo clowns — will be announced soon. Free with paid festival admission, the event offers fans an up-close look at one of rodeo’s most thrilling disciplines in an intimate, high-energy setting.
Along with its all-star headliners, the Country Thunder Arizona 2026 lineup includes Waylon Wyatt, Ian Munsick, Lonestar, Scotty McCreery, Jay Webb, Jackson Dean, George Birge, Dasha, Logan Layman, Billy Dean & Collin Raye, Lanie Gardner, Austin Snell, Lauren Watkins, Annie Bosko, The Wilder Blue, and many more. In addition, the Copperhead Stage will spotlight rising artists from The Grand Canyon State, while the Songwriter Showcase will feature rounds with emerging and established songwriters including Johnny Clawson, Benjy Davis, Brinley Addington, Jimi Bell, Chase McDaniel and Trent Wayne.
The largest Country music festival brand in North America, Country Thunder launched its Arizona festival in 1996. As the Southwest’s ultimate annual Country music experience, the event also includes rides, carnival games, line-dancing competitions, dance parties, delicious food and beverage options, and a multitude of vendors (from new ink to custom hat trimming), all curated by Country Thunder CEO and President Troy Vollhoffer. Tickets, camping, and premium packages are available now with flexible payment options, making it easier than ever to secure your experience.
