Guide to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

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Giddy up! Photo: Raquel Natalicchio/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images

Grab your cowboy hat, Houston. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo kicks off Tuesday.

Why it matters: For the next three weeks, Houston’s universe will be circling around all things rodeo — from the concert series to only-at-the-rodeo carnival food and more.

By the numbers: More than 2.5 million people visited NRG Park for Rodeo Houston in 2024, the highest attendance since 2017.

What to do: The Texas Trail Ride arrives at Memorial Park on Friday, Go Texan Day. Trail riders will also appear Saturday in downtown’s Rodeo Parade, starting at 10am.

  • Performers include Post Malone, Reba McEntire and Journey.
  • And of course, there are the special themed days — from Black Heritage Day and Go Tejano Day to Family Wednesdays, with free admission for folks 60 and older and children under 12 until noon.
  • Plus: Watch mutton bustin’, pig races and the rodeo’s livestock competitions. Attend seminars on Texas wildlife and conservation and take your kids to the Junction for the petting zoo.

What’s new: Along with the first new barrelman in 31 years, there are several new rides, including Overdrive, a spinning thrill ride; the Dragon Family Coaster; and the high-speed Heidi Rollercoaster.

The bottom line: Stroll the grounds in your denim and newly shined boots, grab some food on a stick and embrace your Western roots — it’s rodeo season.

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