Rodeo participants, spectators and fans will be flocking into Okmulgee this weekend as the 69th annual Roy LeBlanc Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo opens Friday evening.

The event is the nation’s oldest and largest African-American rodeo, and one of the state’s longest running events.

According to promoter Kenneth LeBlanc, there are even more contestants entered this year, due to the $12,000 added money.

Held at the Bob Arrington Arena at the Claude Cox Omniplex in Okmulgee, sponsors for this year’s event include the City of Okmulgee, One Fire Casino, First Family Federal Credit Union and Yeti. Their generous support is appreciated and helps to maintain this long-standing tradition.

LeBlanc also announced that tickets and passes for the weekend rodeo will be available beginning at 8 a.m. at the booth at the entrance to the arena. This will alleviate some of the long lines at the start of the rodeo.

Tickets are $15 per night for adults, $10 for children. A special weekend pass is available for $25.

The Roy LeBlanc Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo, one of the nation’s longest-running rodeos, has been entertaining audiences since 1956 and is known for its thrilling competitions and vibrant community spirit.

Contestants will take part in various events including bull riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, Pony Express, ladies steer undecorating, ladies barrel racing, ranch bronc riding, junior barrel racing (12 and under), and junior breakaway (15 and under).

A highlight of the festivities is the annual rodeo parade, which will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, in downtown Okmulgee.

For more information, contact Kenneth LeBlanc at leblanc.kenneth@rocketmail.com or follow the Okmulgee Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo Facebook Page for updates. Don’t miss out on this exciting celebration of rodeo tradition and community camaraderie. Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable weekend!