The second annual Greensboro Rodeo is ready to go.

After joint efforts by rodeo professionals and volunteers, the event is ready to open it’s gates tonight at 5 p.m. for the first of two weekend events.

Crews were on hand Thursday to set up the arena, but preparations for this year’s event have been in the works for 364 days rodeo organizer Brook Smith said.

“We have been working on this since last year,” Smith said. “As soon as the gates closed we started planning for this year.”

Everyone who helped organize this year’s event, Smith said, evaluated last year’s rodeo and looked at what could be done differently. This year, Smith said, they would have a special treat synonymous with Greensboro.

“Last year was the first year we had done anything like this and we really learned a lot,” Smith said. “The biggest mistake we made last year was not having catfish plates. When people come to Greensboro, they want catfish. This year, we will have it available for them.”

Because of last year’s success, Smith said, they also decided to keep the same company, which has been extremely beneficial in the planning process.

“We still have the Three-R rodeo, and they did a great job last year,” Smith said. “They have helped us out a lot and given us advice on how to make it bigger and better.”

The rodeo, Smith said, has become an event the entire community can rally around. She said volunteers have not been hard to find.

“All the volunteers and people who have come out have been great,” Smith said. “They have really shown a commitment to making this a great event.”

Weather reports indicate there may be rainy conditions for tonight’s show. But, Smith said, it will take more than a little rain to spoil the fun.

“We heard there might be some rainy weather, but rodeo’s go on rain or shine,” Smith said. ”

Gates for Saturday’s event open at 3 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Children two and under are admitted free. For more information, call 624-9388 or 287-0782.