Dust off your cowboy boots because the Schuylkill Stampede Rodeo is riding back into town and after a wildly successful inaugural year.

The Schuylkill Stampede returns on Saturday, Oct. 17 at the Schuylkill County Fairgrounds in Summit Station, promising an action-packed day of western excitement, live entertainment, delicious food and family fun.

The festival kicks off at 1 p.m. with free admission to the festival grounds, where guests can enjoy a full afternoon of activities before the rodeo begins at 5 p.m.

The highlight of the day will be the professional rodeo featuring heart-pounding events including bull riding, barrel racing, mutton bustin’ and other crowd favorites as talented cowboys and cowgirls compete in true western fashion.

Whether you’re a lifelong rodeo fan or experiencing your very first Stampede, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

But the excitement doesn’t stop inside the arena. Throughout the day, festivalgoers can enjoy:

• Mechanical bull riding

• Petting zoo

• Pony rides

• Goat snuggling

• Free line dancing

• Country-themed marketplace

• Local artisan vendors

• Food trucks

• Yuengling beer

• Two live country bands performing throughout the day

New this year

Grab your boots and hit the dance floor as the Schuylkill Stampede adds two hours of free line dancing to this year’s festival from 2-4 p.m.

Beginners and seasoned dancers alike are welcome to join the fun and learn some classic country dance moves before the rodeo begins.

Rodeo tickets available

While festival admission is free, tickets are required for the professional rodeo beginning at 5 p.m.

Guests can choose from general admission rodeo tickets or upgrade to the VIP experience, which includes preferred seating, food, Yuengling beer and some of the best views of the rodeo.

“This Ain’t Our First Rodeo” is this year’s theme, celebrating the success of last year’s inaugural event and inviting everyone back for an even bigger and better Schuylkill Stampede.

Bring your family, invite your friends, and put on your cowboy boots for a day of rodeo excitement, food, live music and fun for all ages.

For rodeo tickets, VIP packages, vendor information and event updates, visit http://downtownpottsville.com/schuylkill-stampede or follow Schuylkill Stampede on Facebook.

For sponsorship opportunities email Info@PAD-CO.com.