Omak, Washington
A community history
The Omak Stampede has cultural ties that go back for decades
Omak, Washington, is well known for the famous Omak Stampede—a tradition that has been ongoing for more than 75 years. With a rodeo, parades and other western-style events, people of all ages will have a blast. This year the stampede is in the process of creating newly built and upgraded facilities, something that its numerous staff members and volunteers are extremely excited about. For those involved with this event, the tradition is more than just a fun event, it is a part of Omak history.
“My family has been involved in the Omak Stampede since 1980,” said Sara Grooms, manager. “My sister, Shauna, was 1982 Miss Omak Stampede and is currently the Royalty Director. I was Miss Omak Stampede in 1986 and have been the office manager for four years. My sister Jackie, was Miss Omak Stampede 1996 and is the Program Director. My mom, Karmen, served as Royalty Director for 14 years and is currently the director in charge of social events. As you can see, it is an integral part of our family and we all take great pride in making the Stampede a success.”
The family-run nature of the Omak Stampede is part of what makes it such an important part of the town’s culture.
“There are many elements of our rodeo that I enjoy but what is most intriguing is the atmosphere the Stampede creates,” said Grooms. “Omak attributes a large amount of the community growth to the people that come to see the Stampede and fall in love with the area and come back to stay. To me, the sense of family and tradition is what makes this a very special event.”
While the stampede started small, its popularity has done nothing but increase over the past years.
“The Stampede was started in 1933 by two local stock contractors,” said Grooms, “and was first held on the football field. Tim Bernard and Leo Moomaw, who still have family locally, had a vision. Their vision combined with that of Claire Pentz, a local businessman, was the start of an event that would put Omak on the map. The Suicide Race makes the Stampede a stand-alone event. However, the Encampment and carnival combined with the race and rodeo make it an event that offers something for young and old alike.”
The culture of the local first nations tribe is also a large part of the celebrations, which incorporate the various aspects of local heritage.
“Okanogan County is home to the Colville Confederated Tribes,” explained Grooms. “They host their annual PowWow during Stampede on what was once ancestral campgrounds. The Race is organized and run by tribal members making it a huge part of their tradition as well. The Stampede represents our community worldwide and activities by the local people are very often planned in conjunction with Stampede.”
For more information, visit www.omakstampede.org, call toll-free 1-800-933-6625 or e-mail stampede@northcascades.net.
Washington key contacts
Washington, Deer ParkAn RV resort designed for your comfort
At Spokane RV Resort and Deer Park Golf Club, you can truly kick back and relax. Designed especially for larger RVs, the resort is located in the midst of lush natural scenery with a quiet ambience and fresh mountain air. Visitors can sit back and watch the sun set in a peaceful environment that was custom made to cater to the RVing lifestyle. To top it all off, the golf course is one of the best in the greater Inland Northwest. So make plans to travel our way for your next RV trip, and enjoy the comfort and luxury that Spokane RV Resort has to offer.
Spokane RV Resortwww.spokanervresort.com/
