Thousands of people are expected to converge on the town of Morris over the next four days for the province's top rodeo event.

The Manitoba Stampede and Exhibition starts today and will run until Sunday.

Rodeo manager Mike Bellisle says this is Manitoba's only professional rodeo and stars some of the top names in bull riding, bronco-busting, bareback riding and steer wrestling.

"Many of the competitors coming from Calgary who are performing up there on the circuit will make their way through Morris on their way to the big rodeos down in the U.S. So, Manitobans really are treated to a lot of top-notch cowboys and cowgirls coming through and performing for them."

Valley Agriculture Society Vice President Donna Edel says they're expecting to draw over 30,000 people to this year's event with the largest crowds attending on the weekend when some of the main rodeo events are scheduled.

Edel points out that the Stampede and Exhibition is also family-oriented and offers a variety of attractions and activities for people of all ages including a midway, a kids zone, the ag fair and a variety of musical bands and entertainment.

The annual parade is scheduled for Saturday at 10 am and gate admission is free all four days.