By Gabrielle Izaguirré-Falardeau
Do you feel it too—that rodeo calling? Got your lasso in hand, cowboy boots on your feet, and a blade of grass in your mouth like Lucky Luke? Cowboy life doesn’t stop there in our region! Today, we’re hitting the road to explore the western festivals and professional rodeos of Abitibi-Témiscamingue.
Unmissable western festivals in Abitibi-Témiscamingue
The festivals in La Sarre, Malartic, and Saint-Bruno-de-Guigues share a lot in common. Thanks to tight-knit communities and armies of devoted volunteers, these events turn small towns into major western hubs for a few unforgettable days. From country music to equestrian competitions, they showcase the full spirit of Québec rodeo.
Each festival features equestrian competitions, family-friendly activities, live shows, line dancing, and low-cost or free entertainment. They’re designed for all ages—and while they share similar components, each has its own unique flair.
Festival équestre et rodéo professionnel de La Sarre – Abitibi-Ouest
The season kicks off from June 18 to 22 with the Festival équestre et rodéo professionnel de La Sarre. The program is extensive—most of it free, except for the rodeo itself.
What sets La Sarre apart? The scale of the schedule, mostly free of charge. Think western bingo, kids’ play zones, line dancing, shows, and more. The exclusive highlight? Rock’n’Bull, a third rodeo dubbed the perfect mix of bull riding and rock concert. Now that’s a show!
A wildly popular western festival and pro rodeo
Every year, passes sell out faster than a runaway stallion. There are still tickets left for Thursday’s Rock’n’Bull—but hurry! Bonus fact: this rodeo is part of the official Québec Professional Rodeo circuit. The best of the best make it to the provincial finals at the Festival Western de Saint-Tite!
Festival Western de Guigues: Over 40 Years of Country Tradition in Témiscamingue
Next stop: Saint-Bruno-de-Guigues, August 5 to 10, 2025. For over 40 years, the Festival Western de Guigues has been a well-oiled tradition. Centered around the village’s coliseum, its schedule includes gymkhana, kids’ rodeo school, rally, family zone, and more.
It’s a paradise for country fans—with a musical lineup to prove it!
Francis DeGrandpré, David Pineau, Rick Duff, Tennessee Whiskey… Québec’s country cream of the crop will be there to entertain 15,000 festivalgoers. Yes, in a village of just 1,140 residents. That’s the western spirit: grand and intimate all at once.
Malartic: Pro Rodeos and Cowboy Challenges in Vallée-de-l’Or
From August 13 to 17, 2025, head to Malartic for another rodeo must-see in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. The Festival Western de Malartic opens with a cheerful Souper du cowboy, followed by a whirlwind of events: heavy horse pull, carriage derby, Cowboy Challenge, live shows, gymkhana with AERWAT… it’s all here.
On stage: Guylaine Tanguay, Sara Dufour, This Side Up, and Justin Legacy will keep the party going. A festival where tradition meets adrenaline.
A Living Tradition
What stands out from this roundup is the warmth of the people, the local pride, and how accessible these western festivals are in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. Whether you’re into the rodeos, the music, or just soaking in the unique small-town vibe, these are experiences worth the detour. A perfect reason to explore a different side of our beautiful region.
So, ready for the ride? Pull on those boots. Let’s go!
