The temperatures have risen and so has the patriotic spirit around Folsom as its almost time to dust off those boots, put on that cowboy hat and your patriotic western apparel of choice and head to Folsom’s premier annual spectator event, the Folsom Pro Rodeo.
This year’s rodeo takes place July 1, 2 and 3, leading you right up to Independence Day but providing plenty of red, white and blue before the holiday event arrives. If you haven’t gotten tickets yet for one the three days, you better giddy up and wrangle them now as they are selling fast and routinely, this event sells out year after year and tickets for the July 1 are nearly sold as of this time and the two days thereafter are expected to follow suit.
The Folsom Pro Rodeo has been entertaining spectators from Folsom and afar in the popular Dan Russell Arena, in the heart of Folsom at Rodeo Park for 62- years now.
Under the presenting sponsorship of Bonney Plumbing, Coors Light and the Folsom Auto Mall, the latest rendition of this summer classic is sure to entertain and create memories for all ages over its day run. In addition to the trio of presenting sponsors, the Folsom Pro Rodeo is made possible by a contingent of community sponsors each year that assist the Folsom Chamber of Commerce in providing non-stop entertainment each and every night.
From the time the gates open each night, this event is a celebration of America as fans will struggle to stay dry-eyed with patriotic fanfare in celebration of Independence Day. The patriotism continues from beginning to end, from the arrival of the sky diver delivering the American Flag, right down to the colorful fireworks that will light up the sky. The Flying Cowboys, motocross experts, will test the limit of the arena by flying as high as possible with flips and turns.
Traditional rodeo events which will churn up the small, but action-packed arena include bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing and don’t forget those zany rodeo clowns that bring laughs to the whole family. This year, Folsom favorite Matt Merritt is set to return to lead with plenty of colorful “clowning around.” (See related story on www.folsomtimes.com)
Five-and 6-year-old cowboys and cowgirls will do their best to cling on woolly sheep in the mutton busting competition. When it comes to viewing the Rodeo at Dan Russell Arena, there isn’t a bad seat in the house as fans are up close to the action with nearly every ticket.
Starting on Saturday night, July 1, the gates open at Dan Russell Arena in plenty of time for fans to find their seats and enjoy the many types of food and beverages before all the fanfare begins.
Just as the fireworks conclude each night the fun continues long after the dust settles as the Saloon Under the Stars will heat up with dance music nightly with Mooshine Crazy taking the stage. Admittance to the saloon is free for rodeo fans.
The Pro Rodeo action will continue through Monday, July 3 which is Veteran’s Night at the Rodeo this year
When it comes to seating, there isn’t a bad seat in the house at the Folsom Pro Rodeo. Fans will have the opportunity of sitting ringside to the bucking chutes and not missing a minute of the action in the Corral Club for $69, which include no-host beverage/food service. Reserved rodeo tickets are $39 for all ages and $29 General admission, for all ages.
When it comes to buying tickets, you want to buy them direct from the Folsom Pro Rodeo and the Folsom Chamber of Commerce, beware of those third-party ticket sellers that are out there trying to capitalize on this popular event and charging far more than the original price. You can buy your tickets online today www.folsomprorodeo.com or go to Handley’s Western Wear in Folsom or Lee’s Boutique in Shingle Springs, the two authorized local ticket outlets.
Prior to the Folsom Pro Rodeo, the Ride into the Music Festival concert is slated to take place at the Field at Lakeside. This is the first time this event has come to Folsom. While it is not associated with the rodeo or the Folsom Chamber of Commerce, it makes for a great option to enjoy a stayover in the city.
Presented by JMF and Good Vibes Presents, the event features country music’s Tyler Rich. Canaan Smith and local band Moonshine Crazy. Tickets start at $79 and can be purchased at www.rideintothemusicfestival.com (See previous Folsom Times story from April 18 below for more infotmation).
