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Spring Break Fun at RodeoHouston: Don’t Stop Believin’

By Annie Blaylock McQueen, Staff writer | March 18, 2025

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The McQueen family - Annie (on left), Tyler (on right), and kids (from left) Hank, Georgia, Lila, and Cash - had a blast at Rodeo together.

We wrapped up Spring Break with an unforgettable weekend at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. The festivities kicked off Friday night with Journey – but little did we know, we’d witness a scene straight out of The Sopranos.

After soaking in the rodeo events, the stadium was full of energy as the band took the stage. NRG was packed, and the crowd belted out Journey’s classic hits. Then, midway through what is arguably their most iconic song, an unexpected moment happened – an electrical fire broke out under the stage, cutting the performance short. It was reminiscent of the final moment of classic show The Sopranos with Don’t Stop Believin’ playing before the scene cuts to black. Thankfully, everyone was okay.

In a spontaneous, goosebump-inducing scene, the entire stadium erupted into an a cappella rendition of Don’t Stop Believin’, turning a concert mishap into a memory, with a song everyone knows.

(Since the concert was cut short, fans can request a refund or choose to donate ticket funds.)

Georgia McQueen, 8, was excited to explore Fun on the Farm, where kids get a taste of daily farm operations.

The following morning, my husband and I took the kids to explore the carnival and AGVENTURE inside NRG Center. AGVENTURE, a rodeo favorite, brings farm life to the city with hands-on exhibits. Our 8-year-old daughter, Georgia, couldn’t wait to experience Fun on the Farm, where kids get a taste of daily farm operations – milking cows, collecting eggs, visiting a market, and more.

The petting zoo inside NRG Center is always a highlight, with friendly farm animals. We wrapped up the day at the carnival, playing games, riding attractions, and heading home with a few oversized stuffed animals to add to their ever-growing collection.

Cash McQueen, Georgia McQueen, Lila McQueen

Cash, Georgia, and Lila McQueen showing off their carnival wins.

It’s hard to believe the rodeo is in its final week, wrapping up on Sun., March 23. If you haven’t made it out yet, now’s the time. From fun carnival rides to hands-on learning to entertainment, there is something for everyone.

Find a guide to Rodeoing in our March 2025 issue here. Plus, read about a family who finds the Rodeo to be their happy place and learn about the Salt Grass Trail Ride tradition.