Hear music and see bronc riding at Wauconda rodeo

The Wauconda Area Chamber of Commerce would be much obliged if you would dust off your boots, kick up your heels and ride on down to its 50th annual IPRA Championship Rodeo.

The event begins with the Friday, July 12, kickoff concert, “Ricky Nelson Remembered,” plus performances by Jessica Rae and Bella Cain starting at 5 p.m. at Golden Oaks Equestrian Center, Case Road and Route 12, Wauconda.

Tickets purchased at the gate cost $20 for general admission and $40 for the VIP section.

The annual two-day rodeo, co-sponsored by Russo Power Equipment, shoots out of the gate at the Golden Oaks Equestrian Center at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 13, with professional rodeo performances beginning at 7 p.m.

It includes a routine by the Midwest Renegade Equestrian Drill Team, along with six rodeo events: saddle bronc riding, bareback bronc riding, bull riding, cowgirl barrel racing, steer roping and tie-down roping.

Guests can grab a cool drink in the Budweiser Beer Garden and groove to the tunes of Derringer & Rye, who will perform before and after Saturday’s rodeo show. Those with a more daring spirit can test their bull riding skills on a mechanical bull.

The fun returns Sunday, July 14, when gates open at 1 p.m. for “Family Day” sponsored by Palatine Oil Company. A free petting zoo, $3 pony rides, a moonwalk and mechanical bull rides (nominal fees apply) are available.

From 1 to 3 p.m., the band Chuck-A-Roo will perform for the kids. At 3 p.m., the IPRA Championship continues with the return of the Midwest Renegade Equestrian Drill Team and professional cowboys and cowgirls from across the country, who will roundup more competitive rodeo excitement for boys and girls of all ages.

Rodeo guests will also find food, beverages and souvenirs available for purchase throughout the two-day event.

General admission tickets for the rodeo are $15 for adults; $6 for children ages 5-11; and free for kids younger than 5. Advanced ticket sales are available at www.waucondarodeo.com until July 10. Visa, MasterCard and Discover are accepted.

Advanced tickets can also be purchased through July 12 until noon at Wauconda Community Bank, 495 W. Liberty St. (cash or checks only). For details call (847) 526-5580.

Parking is $6 and includes a car wash coupon from Bubbles & Suds in Wauconda.

Visit www.waucondarodeo.com for all concert and rodeo information and look for Wauconda rodeo on Facebook.