By Joel Langton
The 830 Times
Rotary Club’s annual tradition returns June 26-27 at the Val Verde Fairgrounds.
Del Rio will kick off celebrating America’s 250th birthday will start about a week early when the Rotary Club of Del Rio will hold its annual Independence Day Rodeo.
The two-night event will take place Friday and Saturday, June 26 and 27, at the Val Verde Fairgrounds. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. with rodeo action kicking off at 8 p.m. both nights.
However, Don Williams, the just-elected Rotary President, said the event is more about family fun than hard-core rodeo competition.
“We have everything priced with families in mind,” Williams said. “Those under 18 get in for free so that means a family with three kids, mom and dad can all get in for $20. Then, we have our concessions very reasonably priced.
Long-term Rotary members said that has always been the vision of the program — to get a lot of people through the gates and to make a ‘profit’ thanks to the numbers.
Williams added that the event is a win on many levels. “We want people to have fun at the event and families to always remember the great time they had at the Rotary Rodeo on the 4th of July weekend. Then, we’re incredibly proud of the scholarships we give away in the Spring, thanks to the great time everyone had.
Organizers say fans can expect exciting events, great food, vendors and a festive atmosphere for all ages. Kids 17 and under get in free.
The event features mutton busting, stick pony races,
According to Cheryl Simmons outgoing Rotary president, Presale tickets are available for $10 at Cowboy John’s, Fishing Cowboy, Del Rio Feed and Supply and Boots and Jeans.
Tickets at the gate will be higher, so people are encouraged to buy early and save.
“The bottom line is, this event is a win and a lot of the credit for that goes to our sponsors,” he said. “Thanks to our sponsors, the event is a success before the first note is played or cowboy is bucked off.”
