The 56th Annual Cochrane Lions Labour Day Weekend Rodeo kicks off today (Sept. 2) at 1 p.m. with gates opening at 11 a.m. at the downtown Lions Rodeo Grounds on 5th Ave.

Besides a full three days of FCA-sanctioned rodeo events, there are daily themes and special presentations throughout.

SATURDAY is Western Heritage Day

If you come dressed in your best retro outfit, you'll have a chance to wear a pair of cowboy boots. That's up to a $600-$700 value, courtesy of Lammie's Western Wear. Spotters will select the winner from the crowd.

Today also features the crowning of the new Cochrane Lions Rodeo Queen, the presentation of the Volunteer of the Year award, and a special Western event demonstration.

You will want to be on the grounds for a special opening that includes a fly-by by HAWCS of the Calgary Police Service. 

Doors open at 7 p.m. on Saturday for the rodeo cabaret. TC & Company is back by popular demand.

On Sunday, Stand Up to Cancer Day

Pink is the colour for Sunday's rodeo for cancer awareness.

Special presentations include the Cowboy of the Year Award, Lions special awards, and the popular wild cow race.

LABOUR DAY MONDAY is Military & First Responders Day

Red is the colour of the day to show support for the military and our first responders. It's also the rodeo finals, and you can expect some intense competition.

The day is kicked off by a fly-over by HAWCS of the Calgary Police Service.

All weekend long

There are 16 events and over $15,000 in prize money.

Daily events include bareback, bull riding, jr. barrel racing, jr. breakaway, jr. bull riding, jr. steer riding, ladies barrel racing, ladies breakaway roping, lil' rascals barrel racing, novice horse riding, saddle bronc, steer wrestling, team roping, and tie-down roping.

The Kids Zone opens daily at 12 noon and features bouncy castles, face painting, a petting zoo, and Make Your Own Brand with the Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation.

Plenty of food trucks will be on site and the beer garden opens daily at noon.

Last night, the Slimdoor Ranch Rodeo drew a large crowd to get the weekend hopping.

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