A Classic Cattle Drive Comes Back to Folsom

After more than two decades, a much-loved tradition is set to come back to Folsom this summer. The historic cattle drive, once a highlight of the town’s celebrations, will return for a one-time event in the city’s historic district.

The drive will help kick off the Folsom Pro Rodeo, beginning shortly after a parade scheduled for the evening of July 1. Organizers have carefully planned the timing so that the cooler temperatures make the experience safer and more enjoyable for both animals and riders.

According to organizers, around 50 cattle—including longhorns—will be brought in for the event. A group of experienced riders will ride alongside the herd, guiding them steadily down Sutter Street. Their role is essential: they must keep the animals calm and prevent them from wandering off in different directions.

The cattle won’t be running; instead, they will be walked at a controlled pace. The entire drive is expected to last about 15 minutes, creating a short but memorable experience for spectators.

Planning the Return

This revival didn’t just happen overnight. Organizers had to work out logistics, costs, and safety concerns before deciding to bring the tradition back. In the past, the event was discontinued partly because it took place earlier in the day, when high temperatures made conditions difficult.

This time, however, everything has been adjusted to improve the experience. Even so, officials have made it clear that this is a special, one-time occasion rather than something that will carry on every year.

The reason largely comes down to cost. Transporting and managing the cattle is expensive, and organizers must carefully set up funding to make the event possible.

Community Effort

To help cover expenses, the community is chipping in. The total cost of bringing the cattle to town is around $20,000, shared between local organizations. In addition, a fundraiser has been organized at the historic Folsom Hotel, where guest bartenders will serve drinks and donate their tips to the cause.

Organizers are hoping the community will turn out in strong numbers to support the event and help reach their fundraising goal.

A Meaningful Celebration

This year’s cattle drive is more than just entertainment—it’s part of a larger celebration, marking several major milestones, including national and local anniversaries, as well as the long-running rodeo itself.

Although the tradition won’t carry on regularly, its return offers a rare chance for visitors and locals alike to step back in time and experience a piece of Folsom’s heritage.

For riders, organizers, and spectators, this event is a reminder of how community traditions can be preserved—even if only for a short time—when people are willing to come together and make them happen.

Phrasal Verbs

1. to come back

Definition: to return

Example: The cattle drive is finally coming back after many years.

2. to kick off

Definition: to start an event

Example: The parade will kick off the evening’s celebrations.

3. to bring in

Definition: to introduce or transport something/someone

Example: They will bring in cattle from nearby ranches.

4. to ride alongside

Definition: to move next to something while riding

Example: Riders will ride alongside the herd to guide them safely.

5. to wander off

Definition: to move away without direction or control

Example: The riders must stop the cattle from wandering off.

6. to work out

Definition: to solve or organize something

Example: The team had to work out the logistics before the event.

7. to set up

Definition: to arrange or organize

Example: Organizers set up a fundraiser to cover costs.

8. to turn out

Definition: to attend or appear in large numbers

Example: Many people are expected to turn out for the cattle drive.

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever had to ride alongside cattle or other animals? What challenges did you face?

2. What kind of preparation do you need to work out before participating in a large riding event?

3. How do riders usually set up their horses for a parade or public event?

4. What makes a crowd turn out in large numbers for equestrian events?

5. If a new riding tradition were to come back in your area, would you participate? Why or why not?

6. What’s the best way to kick off a rodeo or riding event to make it exciting but safe?

7. Have you ever brought in a new horse or trained one for group riding? What was the experience like?