The Alpha Psi Rodeo, a spring tradition that has rounded up students since 1965, has undergone several changes for Saturday.
"We are limiting tickets this year for the first time--we haven't ever limited tickets prior to this," said Randolph Stepusin, second year vet student and public relations manager for the rodeo.
The idea to limit tickets is part of Alpha Psi's effort to minimize traffic and cut back on the negative community feedback associated with the event.
Stepusin said the exact limit of tickets has not yet been determined, but he expects the number to be approximately the same as last year: 14,000-15,000 attendees.
Another change is tickets are presale only and available exclusively online for $35; no tickets can be purchased at the gate.
In addition to limiting attendance, those wanting to bring vehicles onto the property will be required to buy a $20 parking permit, which will also be limited.
"This year we're going to have a shuttle system, so we'll have buses running from main campus to the rodeo site and back from the rodeo site," Stepusin said.
The hayfields on South Donahue, a common location for RV parking during football games, will be the site for the shuttle pick-up.
"Parking there will be free," Stepusin said. "You just need a general admission ticket to board the shuttle."
He said because the shuttles will be chartered buses, those who want to bring tailgating equipment will be able to store their belongings under the bus during transport.
Shuttles are scheduled to run from 8 a.m. Saturday until several hours after the concert ends.
Although the schedule is still being finalized, Stepusin said they plan to start the concert earlier than in years past, with the opening act starting at approximately 5 p.m. and the main act starting at 7 p.m.
The main act for this year's rodeo is Blake Shelton, with the Josh Abbot Band from Texas and Adam Hood opening.
Lauren Smith, junior in biomedical sciences, said the online ticket sale is a more convenient way to handle ticketing, and the $35 price did not deter her from spending the money to see a big name like Shelton.
Smith said she also expects the new parking and shuttle system to have a positive effect on reducing the risk of drinking and driving.
"Hopefully it will go as easily as it sounds," Smith said. "I know there will probably be kinks, but I think this is an excellent move on Alpha Psi's part for both reining in general chaos and keeping everyone safe."
Stepusin said with the new changes also come some new surprises, including a mechanical bull and several new vendors such as Auburn Oyster Bar and the Irish Bred Pub from Opelika.
The consequences for bringing glass and weapons to the rodeo will be harsher than prior years.
"If we find a firearm this year it's going to be a little bit different," Stepusin said. "Last year we confiscated the weapons--this year your tickets will be voided and you will be sent away if we discover a firearm in the vehicle."
Stepusin said rodeo entries will be accepted until Saturday, during the mandatory safety meeting for all participants.
In the case of too many participants for the more popular events, a random lottery will be held to determine who competes.
The Alpha Psi Round-Up is the largest fundraising event at Auburn, with donations from the 2010 rodeo going to five different organizations.
Additional information can be found on the event's website, alphapsirodeo.com.
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