Rodeo Tickets on Sale in Lake Forest

Tickets are available at the Lake Forest on Mercury Road, off of Rockville Boulevard, for the 11th Annual Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo.

Named one of 11 rodeos "worth the drive" in June by Cowboy and Indians magazine, the rodeo will open its gates 2 p.m. Aug. 27 to locals and out-of-towners alike.

Opening ceremonies begin at 3:45 p.m., followed by the rodeo at 4 p.m. and a night of dancing with live music by Jimi Nelson and the Drifting Cowboys. Events continue Aug. 28 at 11:30 a.m. with music, opening ceremonies at 1:15 p.m. and the rodeo at 1:30 p.m.

"Don't be late, the opening tribute to America and local heroes from nearby Camp Pendleton is always a great way to start the festivities," John Wiese wrote on the rodeo's Facebook page. A Norco resident, Wiese called it "simply the best! I get there every year."

The top 30 rodeo contestants will compete in saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping for a $200,000 purse, which organizers tout as the richest in the nation.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for kids younger than age 12; those 3 and younger will be admitted for free. Tickets are also for sale at the ,  and  in San Juan Capistrano, Hennessy's Tavern in Dana Point and Casa Ranchero Mexican Cantina in Ladera Ranch.

Tickets will also be available at the rodeo's entrance at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, at 30753 La Pata Ave. Parking is $5.

Pony rides, face painting and bounce houses will be offered as free entertainment for kids, while adults can ride a mechanical bull and bungee jump.

All proceeds from the rodeo will benefit local charities.