2026 Chief Joseph Days rodeo royalty crowned
By Garrett Christensen on Tuesday, April 21st, 2026 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
JOSEPH – (Press release from Chief Joseph Days Rodeo) The 2026 Chief Joseph Days Rodeo Royalty has officially been crowned, welcoming a new group of ambassadors who will represent one of the Northwest’s most recognized rodeos during its milestone 80th anniversary year.
Queen Ella Hillock and Princess Aspen Cameron earned their titles following months of preparation, with the final horsemanship competition held on Saturday, April 18 at the Yost Arena in Lostine.
The Chief Joseph Days Rodeo Royalty program is rooted in tradition, selecting young women who demonstrate horsemanship, public speaking, and leadership, along with their ability to represent the rodeo through ticket sales and community engagement. These areas of competition reflect the well-rounded role each titleholder carries throughout the year.
Queen Ella Hillock, a 16-year-old sophomore at Enterprise High School, brings deep family ties to Chief Joseph Days Rodeo. Her aunt, Celeste Bauck, was named Princess in 2003, her grandfather, John Hillock, served on the board for many years, and her grandmother, Gail Hillock, has long supported both the rodeo program and the Royalty Court. Ella is an honor roll student and is active in volleyball, 4-H, and FFA.
Princess Aspen Cameron, also 16 and a student at Enterprise High School, has been riding horses since she could walk. She is active in volleyball, basketball, and FFA, and has already stepped into the business world. Last year, she and her brother purchased Wallowa Lake Paddle LLC, which they now operate together—an example of her strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.
“These titles are earned through dedication and hard work,” said Terry Jones, Board President “Ella and Aspen showed a level of commitment and authenticity that reflects what Chief Joseph Days stands for. We’re looking forward to having them represent our rodeo during such an important year.”
As members of the 2026 Royalty Court, Hillock and Cameron will travel across the region attending rodeos, parades, and community events, serving as ambassadors for Chief Joseph Days Rodeo and Wallowa County.
Their reign will lead into the 80th Anniversary of Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, taking place July 21–26, 2026, where they will play a key role throughout rodeo week events.
Rodeo tickets for the 80th Anniversary of Chief Joseph Days are officially on sale now. With strong early demand and historically sold-out crowds, fans are encouraged to secure their seats early. Tickets can be purchased online at www.chiefjosephdays.com or in person at the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo Office in Joseph.
Chief Joseph Days Rodeo continues to be a cornerstone event in Eastern Oregon, bringing together tradition, competition, and community while supporting local programs, scholarships, and nonprofits.
For more information about the 2026 Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, visit www.chiefjosephdays.com
