Why I Love Houston: Let’s Rodeo

Welcome to my Why I Love Houston Series, where I share my favorite Houston experiences and excursions. My goal is to make my hometown of Houston more accessible to the ever-changing mix of folks adopting our amazing city as their home base and reminding natives of the hidden gems throughout H-town.

Why I Love Houston…It’s Rodeo Time 

Jean-Luc and I getting into the rodeo spirit!


March means rodeo time! The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo kicked off last weekend with trail riders making their trek down Memorial Drive in the midst of all the urban hustle and bustle and the festive downtown parade celebrating all things cowboy and cowgirl. From March 1-20, NRG Park transforms into a giant fairground with carnival rides, cattle, country music, and chicken fried everything. 

From big name bands to a massive Ferris wheel, there’s plenty to entertain the young ones and the young at heart. If you plan a family outing to the Rodeo, take advantage of Value Wednesday when select seats are $10 for the rodeo and a concert. For just the Livestock Show and Carnival, adults pay $5 on Value Wednesday and kids and seniors get in for free. There’s also $2 games, rides, and select food options in the Kids Country Carnival from 11 am – 4 pm which includes a petting zoo, tractor pull, pig races, and mutton bustin’ – where aspiring young cowboys and cowgirls try to stay on a sheep for 8 seconds. 
For a date night or girls night out, visit the Champion Wine Garden featuring award-winning wines and live music. 
And be sure to view the inspired artwork from talented students who participate in the Rodeo’s school art program which awards generous scholarships every year to area youth. 
Wondering what to wear if it’s your first rodeo? Houston has many options for going western. 
Locals have long flocked to Texas Junk Company in Montrose which is open most Fridays and Saturdays to check out the selection of secondhand boots and attire. Cash and checks only! 
For a brand new pair of Wranglers, Cavender’s has locations all over the city or go high-end at Pinto Ranch in the Galleria area. 
If you prefer a vintage look, head to the Heights and rummage through the racks at Retropolis and Replay on 19th Street. Stop in Casa Ramirez for Mexican dresses and tops that would pair perfectly with the Rodeo’s Go Tejano Day on Sunday, March 13, featuring traditional folk dancing and mariachi bands. 
See y’all there!
Kathlyn