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World’s Largest Rattlesnake Roundup

A sporting event in March in Sweetwater, Texas featuring rattlesnake capture, educational programming, venom extraction, and community festivities.

Friday

12–14

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESecond Full Weekend in March

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYRegional

ORIGIN

Event Origin

FOUNDING ENTITY

Sweetwater Jaycees

FIRST OBSERVED

1958

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The Sweetwater Jaycees established the World’s Largest Rattlesnake Roundup in 1958 to control local rattlesnake populations and support community traditions.

Institutional Recordvia rattlesnakeroundup.net

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to brave the slither at the World's Largest Rattlesnake Roundup on March 9! This event has been thrilling attendees since 1958, when it was first conceived by local farmers in Sweetwater, Texas who sought a solution to the overpopulated rattlesnake menace threatening their livestock. Prepare yourselves for the unique and the unexpected as this is not just a day, but a cultural phenomenon that attracts courageous explorers from around the world! Whether you choose to watch from a safe distance or get interactive, we can guarantee an unforgettable, high-octane experience unlike any other.

TIMELINE

World’s Largest Rattlesnake Roundup Timeline

Initiation of the Event

The World's Largest Rattlesnake Roundup was conceived by local farmers in Sweetwater, Texas as a control measure for the rattlesnake population threatening their livestock.

Increased Awareness

Media coverage led to increased awareness and participation, adding to the scale and success of the annual event.

Guinness World Record

The event entered the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of rattlesnakes in a single roundup.

Educational Programs Initiated

Organizers initiated educational programs about rattlesnakes and snakebite first-aid to promote safety and understanding about these reptiles.

Controversial Discussions

Animal rights organizations raised concerns about ethical treatment of snakes, sparking discussions and debates globally.

Record-Breaking Catch

A new record was set for the largest rattlesnake caught during the roundup, measuring a stunning 7.3 feet in length.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World’s Largest Rattlesnake Roundup

Join the guided tours

Gather your courage and join the guided tours provided at the Roundup. These tours will take you up close to the rattlesnakes while maintaining ample safety measures. The guides will also provide interesting facts and anecdotes about these fascinating creatures.

ATTEND

Attend the snake handling demonstrations

You can also attend live snake handling demonstrations by experienced herpetologists. They will show you how to handle these dangerous creatures safely, which could potentially save a life in the future!

PARTICIPATE

Participate in photo sessions

For those looking for a unique memento of the event, photographers on site offer supervised photo sessions with rattlesnakes. These photographs make for a great keepsake to remember your adventure at the roundup.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself at the snake education station

Head over to the snake education station to learn more about these incredible creatures. The station provides a wealth of information on the different types of rattlesnakes, their biology, habitat, and conservation efforts.

ENJOY

Enjoy delicacies at the food booths

To wrap up your adventurous day, eat some snake-themed or Texan delicacies available at the food booths. Don't forget to try out the exotic rattlesnake dishes if you're feeling particularly adventurous!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love World’s Largest Rattlesnake Roundup

Culinary Adventure

At the World's Largest Rattlesnake Roundup, not only can you learn about and get up close to rattlesnakes, but you can also taste them! The food booths offer a range of snake-themed and Texan delicacies, providing a culinary adventure to compliment your day of daring exploits.

Unique Experiences

The World's Largest Rattlesnake Roundup offers experiences that are both educational and thrilling. From guided tours and demonstrations to photo sessions and the snake education station, this event presents an opportunity to interact with these fascinating creatures in a way you never have before.

Adrenaline Rush

There's nothing quite like the rush of adrenaline one gets from being so close to these amazing yet dangerous creatures. It's an experience bound to get your heart racing and give you stories to tell for years to come!

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