This year’s Pendleton Round-Up actually was my first rodeo.

Since I started at the East Oregonian last October, I’ve heard from person after person just how special it is to attend Round-Up. And it’s not that I didn’t believe what everyone was saying, but I’ll admit, as someone who had never been to a rodeo, I just smiled and nodded without true understanding of what they meant. But now, after reporting on the vendors and events throughout the week and attending the finals on Saturday, Sept. 14, I can say that I get it.

To me, it’s not that the rodeo itself is all that special — though I can tell it is special, both as the third-largest rodeo in the country (it runs so smoothly!) and one that has such beautifully embedded traditions from its 114 years (I’m glad to have finally seen the Happy Canyon Night Show!).

Instead, what stood out to me was the energy of Pendleton. The city came alive with people for the week, and it’s clear that the hospitality of this place and its residents was at the forefront.

After nearly a year here, experiencing Jackalope Jamboree and Pendleton Whisky Music Fest as well as a number of parades and other tourist attractions, I can confirm that nothing compares to Round-Up. It’s like the whole city is bathed in magic — smiles were bigger, laughs were louder and even the colors looked brighter under the evening lights along Main Street. And that’s not even considering the energy coming from the crowd in the Round-Up Stadium during the bareback, saddle bronc and bull riding finals, in particular.

The week truly is unmatched, both in the fun and excitement and in the exhaustion that follows.

Now please excuse me while I sleep for a week!