Listly by Stay Lodgeur
No other cultural event embodies Houston like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. A 90+ year Houston tradition that kicks off with a world-class barbeque competition. Best of all, the Rodeo lasts for nearly three weeks, so check out these 10 attractions and activities if it's your first time attending.
The rodeo is so beloved by Houstonians that the city and county proclaim Go Texan Days in its honor. Attending the parade and dressing up in relaxed, understated Western garb while out and about is a lot of fun because it's a cherished reference to Houston's cultural identity and historical roots. Check out the Rodeo Run and Rodeo Parade in downtown Houston.
The Rodeo attracts tens of thousands of attendees, making parking close to NRG Stadium difficult to come by. Because of this, loads of visitors rely on Uber and thousands of people looking for their Uber it nearly impossible for your driver to locate you. So get on the METRORail to save yourself the headache! The METRORail is only a short ride away from Lodgeur's furnished apartments at Mid Main Lofts in Midtown Houston. Easy in, easy out.
There are many other food alternatives at the Rodeo if barbecue isn't your preferred cuisine, especially this year since they added a sit-down dining section called The Ranch Saloon + Steakhouse. Additionally, you can visit the customary booths in NRG Center, Rodeo Plaza, and Junction areas of NRG Park.
The primary activities include include bull riding, barbecue, and music, but don't overlook NRG Center's shops and arts and crafts offerings. From hand-woven blankets to genuine rustic furniture and Western-inspired art, Houston is home to some of the most unusual hand-crafted goods you've ever seen.
Although there are many things to do at the Rodeo, Houstonians are most enthusiastic about the evening performances, which feature a wide variety of musical styles from Tejano and hip-hop to traditional country music. Since they are the most popular tickets available, it is common for the biggest bands to sell out NRG Stadium months in advance.
The Rodeo Super Series events, which are ultimately what distinguish a rodeo from other sporting events, can be seen if you arrive a little early for the concerts. The most popular event is by far bull riding, and tickets might be difficult to come by. However, there is nothing cuter than seeing little kids cling on for dear life during the Mutton Bustin' events, which consistently draw cheers and laughter into NRG Stadium.
The carnival outside the stadium is a terrific afternoon entertainment if you have little children and can't stay out late for the activities and music. It has all the typical rides for kids of all ages. Save money buy buying packs of carnival tickets in advance.
It's a success if you can secure tickets to the top performances and rodeos. To put it simply: it's a party! However, if you get the opportunity to attend the spectacular World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, you'd better arrive with an empty stomach and dancing shoes. In actuality, a huge number of the big, sponsored tents are invite-only events.
The Rodeo offers a number of livestock auctions, but they are clearly not your typical auctions. Ranchers from all around Texas travel to Houston because some animals can fetch prices considerably in excess of $60,000. The best part is that a sizable chunk of the money goes to charity.
Rodeo time is ideal for exploring Houston's nightlife after the daily concerts end, if those attractions are still not enough to keep you entertained. Check out Lodgeur's favorite bars and restaurants in Midtown for a great list to get you started.