Rain or Shine the Rotary Rodeo Rodeoed!
When the skies opened up at the Back-to-School Rotary Rodeo on September 6 at Dripping Springs Distilling, spirits did not dampen. Despite the steady rainfall throughout the day, the event still proved to be a fun, family-friend experience enjoyed by all who braved the rain and occasional thunder to join us!
I’m beyond thrilled to say that we raised even more funds for scholarships than last year! 2026 is going to be a BANGER of an event!
The Back-To-School event, hosted by the Rotary Club of Dripping Springs, was designed as both a family celebration and a fundraiser for local high school scholarships. Attendance was smaller than hoped for due to the rain, but those who made it to the event left smiling.
“We’ve been pouring quite consistently all day. I think that definitely dampened the turnout, but the people who are here are having fun, the kids are having fun,” said Carissa Holmes, who led the event, in an interview with Dripping Springs News (drippingspringsnews.com).
The weather may have shifted plans, but it did not stop the Rodeo from generating enough funds to help several students pay for their college education. Families enjoyed stick horse races, bounce house, and indoor vendor booths. A silent auction also brought in much-needed support. The money raised will go directly toward high school scholarships. “We sent six kiddos $1,000 scholarships last year,” Holmes explained, adding that the club hopes to award even more this year (drippingspringsnews.com).
Beyond the financial impact, the Rodeo highlighted the resilience of our club and the DRIP community. Even on a wet day, families, volunteers, and local businesses came together to support students and build connections. The Rotary Club and I are also working to expand our presence among younger families in the area. While many residents know Rotary as an organization that supports veterans and service projects, events like this demonstrate its growing role in family-focused community life.
For those who would like to get involved, the Rotary Club of Dripping Springs meets on the first and third Wednesdays at Flores Restaurant on Highway 290. Visitors are always welcome to join for lunch, meet members, and learn more about how Rotary makes a difference in the area (drippingspringsnews.com).
Rain may have changed the day’s logistics, but it did not change the spirit of giving and fellowship. The 2nd Annual Back-to-School Rotary Rodeo was a success in every way that mattered, and its positive impact on students will be felt long after the skies clear.