Kids will enjoy Sunday 'Family Day' at rodeo

After 22 years of family celebration on Friday night, Sisters Rodeo has changed that day to Sunday afternoon, Family Day.

"We felt that it is easier for families to enjoy the rodeo during the day when the sun isn't down and the temperatures remain warmer," said Rodeo President Glenn Miller. "It's a no-brainer."

The sponsor of Family Day, Les Schwab Tires, agrees.

"The family can stay for all of rodeo. Sometimes Friday nights just got too cold. Now, little kids can still be there for the whole big show," said Raymond Blevins, Les Schwab of Sisters manager.

It's not just a change of days; there are new activities, to boot.

Barrelman and clown JJ Harrison will host a celebration of kids on Sunday at this year's event. The rodeo will have children's face-painting sites so the stands will be filled with "little JJs." Then, JJ will invite the kids into the arena for a massive crowd photograph of a few hundred small clowns and a grown-up clown at the top of his rodeo game.

The first thousand kids at the rodeo will receive a special children's rodeo program along with a pen for the quizzes and fun inside.

"We were exposed to this idea at a rodeo in Washington last summer," said board member Frank Jacobsen. "It seems like a good way for kids to learn about rodeo and about being a good citizen."

All tickets are reserved, with children 12 and under free. Children need a ticket, which can be acquired when parents purchase theirs.

Sisters Rodeo will begin June 6 with Xtreme Bulls, followed by four rodeo performances June 8-10. For tickets and information, call the ticket hotline at 541-549-0121 or 1-800-827-7522, or visit the ticket office at 220 W. Cascade Ave. in Sisters. For information visit www.sistersrodeo.com.