Right now, one of the biggest events of the year is happening in Houston — the Houston Rodeo.
If you run into folks who aren’t from Texas, there’s a chance some of them think we ride our horses to work and rope cattle for fun on the weekends. And while some native Texans enjoy the cowboy lifestyle on a permanent basis, most of us only get to celebrate it once a year.
Keep reading for everything you need to know about the Houston Rodeo.
What New Houstonians Need to Know About the Rodeo
The rodeo began in 1932 with a simple cattle show. Today, it’s now a huge event lasting several weeks. Attendees have the chance to hear some of the biggest concerts in both country music and pop, see award-winning livestock, eat one-of-a-kind food, and watch top cowboys crush the competition.
Houstonians look forward to the rodeo all year long. In fact, many have attended since childhood. Whether it’s your first time or your 30th, the Houston Rodeo is a magical experience you won’t want to miss. So dust off those boots, save your appetite, and get ready to go Western.
What You Can’t Miss At the Houston Rodeo
The Food
Every year, hundreds of vendors bring their A-game to offer Houstonians the most interesting, delicious food around. From classic turkey legs to fried bacon-wrapped cinnamon rolls, it’s the one time a year to stuff your face with delicacies you didn’t even realize could be fried.
The Fun
Kids and adults alike will love the carnival, which features more fun food, rides and games, and a luxury Ferris wheel. You can even purchase a FastPass to avoid standing in line.
Another can’t-miss adventure is The Junction, a playland featuring:
- Camel rides
- Mutton Bustin’, where tots get a chance to ride or race sheep
- Carnival designed just for children
- Mini tractor
- Petting zoo
- Interactive farm exhibit
- Pig racing
- Shows and entertainment
The Animals
You can’t properly do the rodeo without dropping by AGVENTURE, the livestock show located in Hall A of the NRG Center. You’ll see:
- Baby animals
- Milking demonstrations
- Horticulture exhibits
- Pony rides
- Petting zoo
- Beehives
- Fishery exhibit with a Touch Tank
- Hundreds of livestock breeds and award winners
The Shopping
For fun outdoor shopping, drop by the Lone Star Market on the west side of the stadium. You’ll find official rodeo and concert merchandise at multiple booths in both the stadium and the NRG center.
Can’t squeeze in enough time to do all your shopping? Check out the convenient online store.
The Main Event
At night, get ready for the real fun. Professional cowboys and cowgirls participate in barrel racing, goat and calf roping, bull riding, and bronc busting. Then watch as your favorite entertainers take the stage. World-famous musicians such as Elvis Presley, Taylor Swift, John Legend, and Willie Nelson have been headliners in the past.
The 2018 concert schedule does not disappoint, either. This year’s lineup features earlier acts like Blake Shelton and Rascal Flatts, but it’s not too late to see OneRepublic, Brad Paisley, or the legendary Garth Brooks.
Moving To Houston?
Dreaming of moving to a place where you can enjoy the rodeo every single year? It’s time to book both your rodeo tickets and your professional Houston movers! Ameritex is one of the top moving companies in Houston, and the only one to offer a Stress-Free Move Guarantee. Fill out the form on this page for a free, no-strings-attached moving quote.
For any questions or to schedule your move to Houston, call Ameritex Movers at 713.484.6683.