The countdown is on to the 53rd annual Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo.

The talent is in order, the event’s star attraction – the Eastern Diamondback rattlesnake — has started coming in, vendors are readying, and the city is abuzz with excitement.

Headliners for this year’s rodeo, which starts Friday, are country music’s Little Texas and Steel Magnolia.

Opp Mayor John Bartholomew said he’s excited about the rodeo.

“We’re praying for good, clear weather,” he said.

Each spring, the slithering serpents draw thousands to Opp’s Channell-Lee Stadium to enjoy the day’s fun and excitement as they peruse vendors wrapped around the track; see the rattlers caught for this year’s rodeo; and participate in the buck dancing contest or greasy pole climb before enjoying Saturday’s entertainment.

The rodeo draws the largest crowd to the City of Opportunity and brings with it a stream of sales tax revenue and business for the city.

Gates will open at 3 p.m. on Fri., March 22 and at 8 a.m. on Sat., March 23.

Tickets are $20 for Friday night, $10 for Saturday, if you come before 3 p.m., and $20 after 3 p.m.

Weekend passes are $30. Children 6 and under get in free.

Rodeo officials are offering a military discount with an active military ID.

Friday will be $10; Saturday before 3 p.m. will be $5, and $10 after 3 p.m.

Military tickets must be purchased at Opp City Hall or at the gate the day of the events.

All other tickets may be purchased online at rattlesnakerodeo.com.

 

The schedule follows:

Fri., March 22

3 p.m. | gates open

3:30 p.m. | Christian Wossilek

4 p.m. | snake show

5 p.m. | Christian Wossilek

6 p.m. | Welcome and National Anthem

6:15 p.m. | The Springs

8 p.m. | Little Texas

 

 

Sat., March 23

8 a.m. | gates open

9 a.m. | opening announcements

9:15 a.m. | entertainment

9:45 a.m. | Dusty Sanderson Band

10 a.m. | snake race heat 1, snake show

11 a.m. | Robin and Tori Reisnour

11:30 a.m. | introductions, National

Anthem, Rattlesnake Rodeo Queen presentation

12:30 p.m. | snake race heat 2, snake show

2 p.m. | Dusty Sanderson band

2:30 p.m. | snake race heat 31, snake show, snake race championship, karaoke winners, buck dancing contest and greasy pole climb

4:30 p.m. | Faith Jackson

6:05 p.m. | Martin McDaniel Band

8 p.m. | Steel Magnolia