SoCal Safari Shows What to Expect at San Juan Capistrano's Rodeo This Weekend

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA—The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo taking place this weekend at the rodeo grounds, and it's time for Orange County residents to pull out their western wear and get into the action.

Gates open Saturday at 1 p.m. with opening ceremonies to begin at 3:45 p.m., the rodeo will begin at 4 p.m. On Sunday, the gates open at 11:30 a.m. and the rodeo will begin at 1:30 p.m. in what has been called America's Richest Two-Day Rodeo.

Last year, this rodeo celebrated their 15 year anniversary of family entertainment in San Juan Capistrano. Now, the contestants for 2016 will compete for a purse worth in excess of $250,000.

SoCal Safari released three videos this week showcasing the 2015 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo, and will give you the flavor of what to expect should you go out this weekend.

"The Rodeo continues to elevate the level of competition which draws the best contestants from across the world to compete in the richest two day rodeo in the nation with a purse totaling over $250,000," SoCal Safari's Eric Bergstrom said of the event.

"The top 30 contestants compete for cash prizes in the hopes of continuing on for the grand prize at the Nationals Final Rodeo in Las Vegas in saddle bronc, bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping," he said.

The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo continues to celebrate the golden age of early California history and the American West, according to SoCal Safari.

Purchase your rodeo tickets at one of these San Juan Capistrano establishments.

"Rancho Mission Viejo has committed to the preservation of the cowboy way of life," Bergstrom stated.

In the cowboy tradition of "passing the hat" for support of a sick child or need friend, all proceeds from the rodeo will benefit local charities.

Photo and Video Courtesy of SoCal Safari