Gates Open Aug. 27 for 11th Annual Rancho Mission Rodeo

Named in June one of 11 rodeos "worth the drive" by Cowboy and Indians magazine, the 11th Annual Rancho Mission Viejo 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 for sale at the , and , Hennessy's Tavern in Dana Point, Boot Barn in Lake Forest 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.