Special Angels Rodeo goes Saturday at T2 Arena

The feel good event of the year is coming up this weekend, Saturday, November 9, as the annual Special Angels Rodeo is set to start at 10 a.m. at the T2 Arena, 3810 Old Peveto Road.

The Special Angels Rodeo provides "a fully adaptive rodeo experience for our Special Needs Community." Special Needs children and adults come from throughout the region to participate in a fun day of rodeo, including riding a mechanical bull.

But the activities are not restricted to those with Special Needs. Families come to enjoy the excitement of the event and participate in activities. This year's lineup includes carnival games, bounce houses, a petting zoo, and a variety of vendors.

T2 Arena is covered and will protect against rain.

Special Angels Rodeo was started by the Harris family, owners of Farmers Mercantile for nearly 100 years, started the activity as a gift to Lu Harris, the mother of the latest generation running the landmark downtown Orange store.

Through the years, their non-profit organization has gained support throughout the area with businesses, industries, and individuals donating money and gifts. Those groups, along with hundreds of volunteers, have made the event something special for everyone.

As the crowds have increased and the rodeo has grown, this year Cowboy Church of Orange County is helping out. This year, volunteers will be able to park at the church on FM 1078 and ride shuttles back and forth from the arena. The plan will allow more parking spaces for attendees at T2.