This village will be bustling with activity this weekend, as the local Optimist and Kinsmen clubs host the second annual Mapleton Rodeo from July 4 to 6. More than 4,000 people are estimated to have attended the three-day event in 2013 and organizers are hoping for an even better turnout for this year’s event.
Rodeo action will be centred around the Maryborough Community Centre on Ball Avenue, but rodeo-goers should follow signage to one of several parking locations near the event site.
“No matter which way you enter into our lovely little village you and your party will be shuttled to the rodeo site the farmer way, using the latest in New Holland equipment, and a few straw bales,” organizers state on the Mapleton Rodeo website.
The event opens Friday night with a family barbecue dinner and live entertainment under an outdoor tent. Friday night’s fun will include an amateur rodeo, children’s activities and performances by Randy Smart and Sarah Smith.
Gates open on Saturday at 11am, with entertainment in the tent and children’s activities. In addition to the New Holland Elite Rodeo, Saturday’s events will include a parade, an arm wrestling competition, karate demonstrations and children’s activities. Opening ceremonies and the parade are scheduled for 2pm.
Popular local band Loose Change will headline a Saturday night concert, with opening act Biggy and the Hostiles.
The event continues on Sunday with a cowboy breakfast, children’s activities and more action in the rodeo ring.
For more information go to mapletonrodeo.ca.
