Utility poles rising out of the ground at John Hunt Park are not part of a construction project. They are setting the stage for one of the most unique competitions in the country.

The Public Power Lineworkers Rodeo will take place Saturday, March 28, bringing top lineworkers from across the nation to Huntsville to compete in a series of fast-paced, high-skill challenges.

The free event runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is open to the public, with a kids zone, food trucks and family-friendly activities planned throughout the day.

Hosted by the American Public Power Association, the rodeo is considered the premier showcase of lineworker expertise, testing both technical knowledge and physical ability.

Lineworkers, who build, maintain and repair the electrical infrastructure that powers homes and businesses, will compete in events that simulate real-world scenarios, from climbing poles to restoring power under pressure.

“The backbone of the electric industry are lineworkers,” said Wes Kelley, CEO of Huntsville Utilities. “They’re the people that are out there every day physically building the infrastructure that we all use. And a rodeo is an opportunity for them to demonstrate their ability to work safely and quickly, to restore service and to keep one another safe while doing so.”

Kelley added the competition is “an impressive display of both mental and physical toughness.”

In addition to the rodeo, a pre-event celebration will bring together competitors, families and the community with live music, children’s activities and food vendors.

The event also serves as a chance for lineworkers to connect with peers from across the country while highlighting the critical role they play in keeping communities powered, often in challenging and dangerous conditions.

Organizers say the rodeo is not only about competition, but also about recognizing the essential workforce behind the nation’s electric grid and giving the public a closer look at the work they do every day.