The rodeo, which is positioned at the foot of the Biloxi Bay Bridge, is expected to attract as many as 20,000 fans to Point Cadet with its continuous entertainment, carnival rides, food, and, of course, plenty of fish on display.  (GCN file photo right)

”With the lack of rain, we've seen a lot of saltwater intrusion, which means the sharks are in,” said Michael J. Casano, the rodeo's executive director. “We're expecting to see a lot of sharks, big sharks. In fact, we're already seeing some nice snapper being brought in these first few hours.”

Admission to the rodeo grounds is $5; children enter for free. Those attending should park north of U.S. 90, near the grounds.

Meantime, the Biloxi casino resorts, which traditionally enjoy their biggest month of the year each July, will be hosting a diverse collection of headliners. Among those appearing this weekend: Boyz II Men at the IP, Boz Scaggs and Michael McDonald at Beau Rivage, LeRoux at the Isle, and the Molly Ringwalds at Hard Rock, which, incidentally, marks its second anniversary on July 7.

Fireworks Displays

Biloxi's fireworks display Saturday starts at 9 p.m., with a $40,000 extravaganza expected to light up the nighttime sky.  The Town Green on U.S. 90 will be the best viewing location. The fireworks will be shot from Deer Island and explode over the Mississippi Sound.

Gulfport: 8:45 p.m., Jones Park on U.S. 90.

Ocean Springs: 8:40 p.m., Front Beach. Fireworks may be viewed from anywhere along Front Beach and western portions of East Beach.

Pascagoula: 9 p.m., near Beach Park Pier. A barge will be anchored off the end of the pier, which will be closed at 6 p.m. Boaters are required to stay at least 800 feet from the barge.

Biloxi Police will be patrolling U.S. 90 throughout the weekend and particularly Saturday evening,  remind motorists that parking along U.S. 90 is allowed only in parking bays. Vehicles should not park on center medians, and motorists should use extra caution, particularly in the viewing spots between Casino Row and the Biloxi Small Craft Harbor.