The 11th annual Thunder in the Pearl professional rodeo is set for Friday, June 8 and Saturday, June 9 at 8 p.m. both days, at the Poplarville Fairgrounds.

Pearl River County’s rodeo will feature hundreds of spectators and contestants from across the southeastern region.

Pearl River County Administrator Adrain Lumpkin said Pearl River County hosts the event annually along with the Professional Cowboy Association that sanctions the event.

This year, Lumpkin said the competition will include bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, breakaway roping, barrel racing, team roping and bull riding.

Winners of this rodeo will advance to the finals to be held at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center at a later date.

The event will also feature concession stands so attendees can buy refreshments, Lumpkin said.

Potential contestants can either join PCA or pay the permit fee. Details can be found at pcarodeo.com

Lumpkin said the event will feature local contestants and will be a source of family entertainment. It’s also an opportunity to promote the county and economic growth in the county.

“We have had very good shows and full performances last year and expect the same thing this year,” Lumpkin said.

Tickets for the event are $10 for adults, $5 for children between the ages of 6 and 12 and free for children five and younger.

The Poplarville Fairground is located on Rodeo Street off of Hwy. 26 W.