Brighton Field Day Festival & Rodeo 2027 — Seminole Tribe of Florida
Brighton Field Day Festival & Rodeo is one of the most important cultural events in South Florida and a highlight of the Lake Okeechobee winter calendar. Held on the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation on the northwest side of the lake, it is the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s annual celebration of its heritage — and it is open to the public.
Four days of native dance and music, alligator wrestling demonstrations, traditional clothing contests, a Culture Camp, arts and crafts by tribal artisans, authentic Seminole food, a full carnival midway, concerts and a sanctioned rodeo at the Fred Smith Rodeo Arena. There is nothing else like it anywhere in Florida.
What to Expect
- Native dancers, storytelling and traditional music
- Alligator wrestling and snake demonstrations
- Rodeo performances at the Fred Smith Rodeo Arena
- Seminole clothing contest and Culture Camp
- Parade, carnival rides and midway games
- Live concerts and authentic Seminole food, including frybread and Indian tacos
- Arts, crafts and beadwork by tribal and guest artisans
Know Before You Go
- Where: Fred Smith Rodeo Arena, 17410 Sports Complex Road, Brighton Seminole Reservation, Okeechobee, FL 34974 — roughly 35–40 minutes west of the city of Okeechobee via SR 78
- Tickets: purchase in advance at brightonfieldday.com; single-day and multi-day options
- This is a weapon-free event — please leave firearms and knives at home
- Bring: cash for food and craft vendors, sunscreen, a hat and a folding chair
- Parking: on-site parking is available; arrive early on rodeo and concert nights
- Info: (863) 467-6039
- Respect: ask before photographing dancers or ceremonial activities
Helpful Links
- Brighton Field Day Festival official site & tickets
- Florida Seminole Tourism events
- Top things to do around Lake Okeechobee
Where to Stay
Lake Okeechobee RV Park at 6070 Highway 441 SE in Okeechobee puts you on the water and minutes from the action. Full-hookup RV sites under mature shade trees, waterfront bungalows, boat storage, air-conditioned bathhouses, laundry, free Wi-Fi and a dog park. Event weekends fill fast — see ways to stay, check seasonal rates or call (561) 914-7463 to reserve.