Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo


This yearly event is considered the largest livestock show and rodeo in the world. It is held every spring in Houston, TX and is attended by more than 2.4 million people from across the world.

Looking Back

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo was originally called as the Houston Fat Stock Show and Livestock Exposition and was organized in 1931. The first show was held in April 1932. The organization added a rodeo and downtown parade to the event and was renamed to Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) in 1961.

The event was organized for charitable, educational, and scientific purposes to encourage and promote the breeding, raising, and marketing of livestock and farm products. HLSR began its educational program in 1957.

Kick Off Events

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is one of Houston’s most anticipated annual events. The 20-day rodeo and concert event is the biggest rodeo in the world. Prior to its main events, HLSR’s kick off events are the following:

Downtown Rodeo Parade

The streets are filled with decorative floats, men and women on horseback, marching bands, and hundreds of trail riders. The parade route begins at Bagby and Walker Streets. You have to arrive early to secure the best viewing spot along the route.

ConocoPhillips Rodeo Run


Participated by thousands of people, ConocoPhillips Rodeo Run is a run for a cause. Proceeds from the event go to HLSR educational fund. The event starts at the corner of Walker and Bagby Streets and ends near Eleonor Tinsley Park.

Categories include wheelchair race, timed 10k fast wave, timed 10k general wave, timed 5k race, and untimed 5k walk. A post race party awaits participants and supporters at the Eleonor Tinsley Park.

World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest

This is a 3-day event held at the NRG Park, with more than 250 teams gunning for the title of Grand Champion. You need to have a ticket to gain entrance to this event.

Ticket includes a complimentary sliced beef barbecue sandwich plate, access to live music areas and admission to the carnival. However, tickets do not include access to private cook-off tents.

Aside from these big events during Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, there are also special events:

Armed Forces Appreciation

Brave men and women, along with their families are honored for their sacrifices and undying commitment to the country. Visitors are encouraged to dress in red, white, and blue to show appreciation to these honorable men and women.

Black Heritage Day

The black cowboy’s vital role in shaping today’s Western culture is commemorated through educational exhibits. It is a day-long event participated by finest bands, choirs, cheerleader teams, and fine arts groups.

First Responders Day

The show salutes public law enforcement officers, firefighters, and various members of emergency agencies in Houston Metropolitan Area. Special equipment used by first responders and services displays is showcased in the show.

Go Tejano Day

This special event recognizes the Hispanic culture that enhances the Texas’ heritage. The event includes a colorful exhibition of traditional Mexican folk dance, music, and horseback riding.

Concerts by top musicians are highly anticipated as well. Several top artists had performed in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Past HSLR musical acts include Alan Jackson, Black Eyed Peas, Bon Jovi, Bob Dylan, Janet Jackson, Justin Bieber, Jonas Brothers, and Taylor Swift to name a few.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is an annual celebration that showcases Houston’s rich culture. It gathers people around the globe to have fun and to enjoy this event.

Connect with us on Google+
Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Subscribe to our YouTube