JOHN DAY – Now that you’re finally getting out and about, why not take in a brand-new event?

Hold onto your seats – and your cowboy hat – for a rodeo that promises to pack an extra punch.

“Buckin’ in the Boonies (not your mama’s rodeo)” rides into the Grant County Fairgrounds in John Day, Saturday, July 10.

While billed as “not your mama’s rodeo,” mamas are certainly welcome – and anyone else who loves the thrills, chills and spills of serious bull-bucking, bronc-riding fun.

According to fair manager Mindy Winegar, this will be a “high energy” affair, featuring broncs, bulls, bareback and ranch events. Professionals from the NPRA will compete, plus Emmanuel “Manu” Lataste, a professional bull jumper from France, promises to put on a great show.

Kade Rogge from Cody, Wyoming, will do the announcing honors. Rodeo sound will be provided by Drew Taylor.

“We’re excited that we’re moving forward with events,” Winegar said.

“Our rodeo committee — Trevor Hamsher, Doug Cox and Dwight Johnson — has worked hard to put this on,” she said.

According to Winegar, this event will give out the highest added money the Grant County Fairgrounds has ever offered.

This is the first year the event will be held in Grant County.

The action gets rocking at 7 p.m. in the John Day Auto Parts Outdoor Arena at the fairgrounds.

A party for those over 21 will be held afterward in the Chester’s Market Trowbridge Pavilion, also at the fairgrounds. Live music for the after party will be offered by Kristi Kinsey and the Whiskey Bandits of Prineville. A mechanical bull will be sponsored by Les Schwab Tire.

General admission is $13; for children 10 and under and seniors over 65 the cost is $5. Veterans get in free.

Tickets are available at the gate or visit grantcountyoregon.net.