Residents and visitors alike are invited to a full weekend of events surrounding the Eckville Rodeo.

The festivities begin Friday with a ham supper hosted by Saint Paul’s Presbyterian Church at the Eckville Community Centre.

The Central Alberta Rodeo Association (CARA) rodeo also gets underway Friday, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. and competition beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students, while children five and under are admitted free.

Organizer and Eckville town councillor Collin Pacholek says Saturday will feature a variety of activities throughout the community.

A pancake breakfast hosted by the Gilby 4-H Club will run from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Eckville Arena.

The parade begins at 11 a.m. Participants are asked to gather at 10 a.m. at Eckville Elementary School so organizers can line up entries before the start.

Following the parade, the town will host a chili cookoff, car show and live musical entertainment featuring local performers.

The Eckville Co-op will hosting a BBQ while the Eckville museum will be grilling up hot dogs.

An artisan market will also be held near the post office from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday’s rodeo slack begins at 2 p.m.

Saint Paul’s Presbyterian Church will host a beef supper from 4 to 7 p.m. at the community centre.

The rodeo action continues Saturday evening, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. and competition beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Beer gardens will operate during both Friday and Saturday rodeo performances. Valid identification will be required.

Danielle Gardner, secretary of the Eckville Arena Board, says organizers are grateful for the sponsors and volunteers who help make the weekend possible.