Saddle Up, Houston

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is one of Houston's most anticipated annual events, drawing millions each year. Since its start in 1932, it has grown into a crown jewel of the city’s culture. Volunteers from across the region dedicate their time to this beloved event. This year, the festivities are scheduled from March 4-23. The fun commences with the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest from Feb. 27-March 1 and the Downtown Rodeo Parade and Rodeo Run taking place on March 1. 

Buzz mom Kelly Lee has been attending the rodeo since childhood. She says she remembers creating artwork for the school art program and now enjoys taking her kids to see it, too. The winning art is displayed each year in the Hayloft Gallery, located on the first floor of NRG Center. The school art program began in 1964 to promote artistic creativity and Western heritage. Each year, students from kindergarten through high school submit artwork. “It is always a highlight of my year and a true Houston tradition,” she said. “My kids love to go check out the art and see if they can find their friends’ artwork.”

Whether you are a first-time attendee or a seasoned rodeo-goer, planning your visit will help you make the most of your experience. Here, we put together a guide to Rodeo 2025 with everything you need to know, from morning to evening.

Getting There: Parking and Public Transit Tips

Rodeo Houston is held at NRG Park. While driving and parking is an option, there are other ways to get there.

Park and Ride: METRO’s Rodeo Express bus service offers round-trip rides from locations across the city.

METRORail: The METRORail Red Line is another great alternative. Park in one of the free lots along the line and ride the train to the NRG Park stop, which is near the entrance. See rodeohouston.com/plan-your-visit/park-and-ride.

Parking at NRG: If you choose to drive, you can park in one of the official lots surrounding NRG Park ($20-30). It is a good idea to arrive early, as they fill up quickly. 

Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft have designated drop-off and pick-up zones at NRG Park.

MEMORIES AT THE RODEO There’s something for everyone at RodeoHouston. From fried Oreos to thrilling rides that shoot up, down, and all around, to the excitement of Mutton Bustin’, the fun never ends. Siblings Collette Finch and Walker Finch having fun at the carnival at Rodeo 2024.

Morning: Start Your Day with Rodeo Fun

Kick off your visit at 9 a.m. to AGVENTURE in Hall A of NRG Center. AGVENTURE is an interactive, family-friendly exhibit that showcases Texas agriculture through hands-on activities and live animal displays. Next, take a stroll through the Livestock Show at NRG Center to see prize-winning cattle, sheep, goats, and other animals. 

Lunchtime: Food and Carnival Rides

By midday, sample some delicious food. RodeoHouston is a foodie’s paradise, offering everything from deep-fried foods and huge turkey legs to classic Texas BBQ. Some must-try items include corn dogs, funnel cakes, brisket tacos, smoked sausage on a stick, chocolate-covered bacon, and elote (Mexican street corn). Stephanie Finch, a real estate broker and longtime volunteer for the Calf Scramble committee, says her kids’ favorite thing is eating sweet treats at the rodeo. “They love the ice cream treats as big as their head,” she said. Stephanie has sponsored a high school student in the Calf Scramble Program. “The kids who raise animals are so responsible with a bright future,” said Stephanie. 

After eating lunch, head over to the Carnival. Download the app, “RODEOHOUSTON” prior to your visit, to load up your tickets ahead of time. Beloved carnival rides include the Ferris Wheel, Drop Tower, roller coasters, mini coasters, and funhouses for younger kids. Test your luck at the carnival games to win prizes like giant stuffed animals. 

Funnel cake with whipped cream and strawberries is a classic treat at the Rodeo carnival. (Photo: Dylan Aguilar)

Afternoon: Rodeo Action and Shopping

It is quite an experience, whether your first or 50th, seeing the live rodeo competition inside NRG Stadium. Watch events like bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. Mutton Bustin’ is always a crowd favorite. To sign your child up for Mutton Bustin’ outside of NRG Stadium, visit the Mutton Bustin’ area in the carnival. Spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis for kids aged 5-6 years old and weighing under 55 pounds. 

For shopping, head over to The Hideout or RodeoHouston Marketplace, where shoppers will find everything from cowboy hats and attire to handcrafted jewelry and home decor.

Evening: Concerts in the Big Arena and More

After a day of food and entertainment it is time to enjoy an evening at the rodeo. The Champion Wine Garden, located outside NRG, is a popular spot to relax and enjoy wine before the nightly concert. This year, the area will feature a dedicated tent with clear sidewalls to accommodate larger crowds.

RodeoHouston has hosted some of the biggest names in music, and 2025 is no exception. 

After an 18-year hiatus, Reba McEntire will make her appearance on March 4. First-time performers for RodeoHouston include Riley Green, Bailey Zimmerman, Carin León, AJR, Warren Zeiders, Grupo Frontera, Charley Crockett, Zach Top, and Post Malone. 

A unique experience for visitors of all ages is to meet rodeo professionals at Rodeo's Fan Zone. The Fan Zone is in sections 103 and 124 on the main concourse of NRG Stadium.

After the concert, if you still have some energy, take one last lap around the carnival or grab a final snack before heading home.

Georgia McQueen after competing in Mutton Bustin’.

Strollers and More 

Strollers and wagons are allowed (there are “parking areas” at the North, West, and Southeast Guest Services Booths for strollers and wagons if needed), and there are plenty of family-friendly areas to take breaks. The rodeo does not have a clear bag policy on the grounds or in NRG Stadium; small purses or backpacks are allowed, so be sure to pack water, an umbrella in case of rain, and anything else you might need for a comfortable day.

See You at the Rodeo

Whether you are watching the rodeo action, enjoying delicious food, carnival fun, shopping, or concerts, there is always a new memory to be made at RodeoHouston. See RodeoHouston.com for the schedule and more details. 

Editor’s note: Share your Buzzworthy Rodeo photos and stories with us at [email protected].