Racing on horses with lassos in hand, this year's Silver Spurs Rodeo kicked off this weekend in Kissimmee, and its success has drawn other big rodeo shows to Osceola County, something the community has been waiting for.
"It's a tradition in Osceola County that we love," said Summer Rawson, of St. Cloud. "That's what Osceola County is about."
A tradition for locals and an attraction for visitors, it's a rush to watch for everyone in attendance.
"I saw this team thing, where they ride around and jump on a little bull, and I just thought it was amazing," said Harry Salaman-Byrd, of St. Cloud.
The Silver Spurs Rodeo has become so popular, it can attract around 30,000 people in one night. That, inturn, has attracted other rodeos to town. Osceola County recently signed a 10-year deal with the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo, which county leaders expect to attract thousands more people from across the country.
"This will put heads in beds and bring out-of-town travelers to our area's attractions and our hotels, and keep our businesses growing," said Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington.
The county expects it to bring millions of much-needed tourism dollars to local businesses, and it doesn't stop there. Osceola County is also in talks with other international rodeos showing interest in bringing their show to Central Florida.
Arrington said the local economy partially depends on the rodeo and other attractions that make Osceola County unique.
"Agriculture is a big part of our community, and it gives us an opportunity to highlight it and bring a little bit out about our culture and our past," Arrington said.