The World’s Largest Rattlesnake Roundup will be in Sweetwater at the Nolan County Coliseum on March 9-11.
The Rattlesnake Roundup started back in 1958 as a way to control the overpopulation of rattlesnakes that are found in Nolan County. Sixty years later, more than 40,000 people travel to the Rattlesnake Roundup.
The roundup features a parade; guided hunts; a gun, coin and knife show; carnival food booths and more. Each night of the roundup ends with a dance at the Jaycee Barn.
There will be awards for the longest snake and most pounds of snakes turned in. Most of the snakes brought in are used for research, but Sweetwater Jaycee, Keith Willmann, said it is a chance for the Jaycees to educate the public on what to do if you come in contact with a snake.
“If we have the education the people can be safer and know what to do with the snake if they encounter them,” Willmann said. “The worst thing you can do is run because the snake will strike at the sudden move. Make sure there are no other snakes around you and then slowly back away.”
The Rattlesnake Roundup will be at the Nolan County Coliseum on March 9-11. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for any active/retired military members and children.
