World's Toughest Rodeo
Friday-Saturday: Featuring real-life cowboys and cowgirls, the rodeo showcases competitions in bareback, saddle bronc and bull riding. Even brave little cowpokes can get in on the action during the World's Toughest Mutton Bustin' Competition. Youths are armed with protective gear and challenged to ride a bucking sheep for as long as possible, coached by "America's Got Talent" contestant and trick roper Anthony Lucia and two-time Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association clown of the year Justin Rumford (pictured). Arrive early and meet the competing cowboys and the clown for photos and autographs. After Saturday night's rodeo, country band Gloriana — fronted by harmonizing brothers Tom and Mike Gossin and singer Rachel Reinert — performs at a Party on the Dirt. (7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. $18-$82. Xcel Energy Center, W. 7th St. and Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. www.xcelenergycenter.com.)
MELISSA WALKER
