The 30th Annual Buckmasters Expo, presented by Mountain Dew, brought more than 25,000 attendees to downtown Montgomery from August 15–17, 2025, marking what organizers called the event’s best year yet.
This year saw the return of the Young Bucks Ballroom, where children and families enjoyed free activities such as balloon art, arts and crafts, face painting, and the chance to hold falcons and other birds of prey. The Expo also introduced a mechanical bull ride in line with its theme, “Not Our First Rodeo.” Mascots Bucky and Droptine drew large crowds with photo opportunities and meet-and-greets throughout the weekend.
Buckmasters Founder Jackie Bushman headlined the weekend alongside Aly from Alabama and Georgia’s Macy Watkins. Members of Buckmasters’ On the Road Team, including Tim Van Doren (the “Bama Grill Master”), Glorianne and Ryan Boyd, Garrett Heikes, Marina Childress, Allison Voges, and Aubrey Schreiber, also joined fans for the celebration.
The Bulls & Buckmasters rodeo once again stood out as a high-energy highlight, attracting professional bull riders from across the country. The rodeo theme was supported by sponsors including Jim Beam, the U.S. Army, 6666 Grit & Glory, SIG Sauer, Safari Club International (SCI), Servis 1st, Big Dreams Outdoors, Wind Creek Casino, Legendary Whitetails, Easton, Alabama Power, and United Rentals.
Admission was set at either one can of food or a $1 donation, benefitting Friendship Mission and The Salvation Army. The effort raised $11,000 in cash and collected 9,770 pounds of food — enough to provide 130,000 meals to families across Alabama, an increase from last year’s totals.
Hundreds of exhibitors showcased the latest in hunting gear, outdoor products, and food. Many reported record sales, with some selling out of products before the Expo ended on Sunday.
“The 30th Expo was truly our best yet, and we’re grateful to everyone who helped make it possible,” said Buckmasters Founder Jackie Bushman. “From our presenting sponsor Mountain Dew to our key partners — the U.S. Army, Alabama Power, and Riverside Chevrolet — and the incredible vendors, riders, families, and fans, this event showed once again what makes the Buckmasters community so special”.
The event was supported by sponsors including the U.S. Army, Alabama Power, Wind Creek Casino & Hotel-Montgomery, Riverside Chevrolet, Capitol Tractor, Servis 1st Bank, Baptist Health, Tractor & Equipment Co., and AG Credit. City officials, the Montgomery City Council, the Montgomery County Commission, and the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce also played a role in its success.
The 31st Annual Buckmasters Expo is set for August 14–16, 2026, in Montgomery. Exhibitors interested in participating can contact ShelLee Swain at 334-387-2635 or [email protected].
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
