Canadian PM Justin Trudeau channels his inner cowboy amid rodeo controversy

— -- Yee-haw!

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau slapped on a Stetson on Friday and channeled his inner cowboy at the Festival Western de St.-Tite in St.-Tite in Quebec.

The annual two-week event, which kicked off in 1967, hosts a major rodeo competition and other cultural events. This year's installment was significant since it marked its 50th anniversary.

"Celebrating the 50th anniversary of #FestivalWestern of #StTite with @FP_Champagne this afternoon," tweeted Trudeau, along with photos documenting his visit. "Enjoy the rest of the festival, everyone!"

He was joined by Canada's Minister of International Trade, François-Philippe Champagne, who captioned a series of photos he tweeted, "A great day at the St - Tite, QC Western Festival in the company of our Premier @JustinTrudeau."

Trudeau's visit Friday was not without controversy, though. There's a debate currently raging in Quebec about the welfare of rodeo animals. But Trudeau has said that most animals are treated well.

He told reporters at the festival of the debate, "It has to be done the right way. I understand that some people have concerns, but I think the vast majority of people understand that it's done with respect and care for animal health and safety."

The Canadian leader is no stranger to Western attire. As ABC News reported in July, he attended the Calgary Stampede in Alberta, where he got into the spirit of the annual rodeo and wore cowboy boots, blue jeans, a checked shirt — and, of course, a Stetson.