LAS VEGAS: National Finals Rodeo returns to Thomas & Mack

Once again it's rodeo time on The Strip as the 2012 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo returns to take over Las Vegas Dec. 6-15.

Top rodeo athletes will be on hand at the Thomas & Mack center at UNLV to see who's the best in the world.

Besides the rodeo competition there are several events throughout the week including charity bowling and golf tournaments, autograph sessions, elevation Sunday and a silent auction.

With the influx of fans the rodeo brings to town every year, some country acts have scheduled their tours to be in town during the week.

Performing during NFR week:

Rodney Carrington Dec. 6-15 at the MGM Grand
Miss Willie Brown Dec. 6 at The Mirage
Lonestar Dec. 7-8 at The Orleans
Josh Thompson Dec. 7 at The Mirage
Merle Haggard Dec. 7 at the Golden Nugget
Bill Engvall Dec. 7 and 14 at Treasure Island
Ron White Dec. 7-8 at The Mirage
Craig Morgan Dec. 8 at The Mirage
Rodney Atkins Dec. 8 at House of Blues
Charlie Daniels Band Dec. 9-10 at the Golden Nugget
Sam Riddle Dec. 9-12 at The Mirage
American Country Awards Dec. 10 at Mandalay Bay
The Oak Ridge Boys Dec. 11-12 at the Golden Nugget
Leann Rimes Dec. 13-14 at Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
Randy Travis Dec. 13-13 at the Golden Nugget
Jamey Johnson Dec. 14 at the Riviera
Travis Tritt Dec. 14-15 at The Orleans
Trace Adkins Dec. 15 at the Riviera

Also playing throughout the week are the in residence shows featuring Shania Twain at Caesar's Palace, and Tim McGraw and Faith Hill at the Venetian.

For information on rodeo tickets and schedule go to www.ProRodeo.com. For concert information and tickets go to www.Ticketmaster.com or www.vegas.com.