Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, or what Texans call “RodeoHouston”, kicks off today and runs for the next three weeks ending on March 19th. This happens to be the largest livestock exhibition and rodeo in the world. It also hosts one of the richest regular-season professional rodeo events with a purse of over +$2 million. Those that go to the mega event say it ranks in the same realm as the giant Dallas Texas State Fair, San Diego’s Comic-Con, and New York City’s New Year’s Eve at Times Square.
I’m told one of the largest draws for the show is the 20 consecutive evenings of rodeo and concerts, held in NRG Stadium in Houston. Tickets are relatively inexpensive, averaging around $25, and also grant you admission to the livestock show and fairgrounds. As I understand it, some of the artists performing will include Chris Stapleton, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Brooks & Dunn, Brad Paisley, Jon Pardi, Ashley McBryde, Turnpike Troubadours, Zac Brown Band, and many more. Click HERE for concert information in case you want to take a trip south over the next couple of weeks.
I should also mention that if you are into the animal side of things, since 1932, the Houston Livestock Show has encouraged and promoted the breeding, raising, and marketing of the livestock industry in the Texas Gulf Coast region, and today, it is the world’s largest and most prestigious livestock exhibition. But the highlight event for all the cowboys and cowgirls out there is “The Super Series,” which is a 19-day tournament-style competition that crowns an event champion in bareback riding, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, and women’s barrel racing. Also, each champion is awarded $50,000, plus previous round winnings, a custom-made saddle and belt buckle, and an invitation to compete at RodeoHouston the following year. Finals for the event will be on Sunday, March 19th at 2:45 pm.
So whether you are looking for your next livestock purchase or just want to be entertained by some of the world’s best cowboys and country music artists, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is certainly worthy of consideration for a fun family trip. Even if you can’t make it this year, I suggest you go to their website HERE and check out all the cool videos to get the feel of being there and perhaps put it on the calendar for next year. Good times! (Source: Wiki, RodeoHouston)