Houston – Every year, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) transforms NRG Stadium into the world’s biggest celebration of Western heritage, entertainment and education. Attracting more than 2.5 million attendees each year, the event is more than a rodeo. It is the foundation of Texas culture.
Beyond high stakes competition and star-studded concerts, the true impact of the rodeo lies in its commitment to education and community outreach. Since its founding in 1932, HLSR has provided over $28 million per year on scholarships, helping over 800 students pursue higher education each year.
Legacy supported by volunteers and repaying the favor
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo are powered by an army of 35,000 volunteers who manage livestock exhibitions, scholarship fundraisers and large-scale event logistics. Their dedication ensures that the rodeo will remain one of the nation’s largest non-profit scholarship providers.
“Even during Covid, we continued to award scholarships,” said Marisa Saenz, PR/Media Relations Manager at HLSR. “This isn’t just about hosting a rodeo, it’s about creating opportunities that last a lifetime.”
In addition to scholarships, HLSR will fund vocational training programs, agricultural education and Texas school grants to strengthen its mission to support the next generation.
Entertainment and evolution: Bridging traditions and contemporary culture
While rodeo competition is at the heart of the event, the HLSR has constantly evolved to reflect Houston’s diverse cultural landscape. Since 1942, the entertainment lineup has featured icons such as George Strait, Willie Nelson, Serena, and Beyoncé.
This year, Post Malone will headline on March 18th to appeal to a wide audience by strengthening its ability to blend rodeo nations, hip-hop, tejano and pop music.
“We’re always tilting the heavy parts of the country, but Houston is more than that,” Saenz says. “Our lineup reflects cities. It’s cities: divers, dynamic and constantly evolving.”
The influence of rodeo goes beyond music. Events such as Rodeo Uncorked! The innovations in the Wine Competition, World Championship Bar-B Key Contest and Agricultural Showcase highlight both tradition and progress, making HLSR a destination for longtime rodeo fans and first-time visitors.
Definition of moment: rodeo emphasizes beyond arenas
Bull riding and barrel racing offer thrilling action, but some of the most important rodeo moments happen behind the scenes.
Calf Scramble: Students compete to catch calves for scholarship funds to raise livestock. Million Dollar Livestock Auction: Young exhibitors sell animals to support the education and future of agriculture. Scholarship Picnic: A celebration that honors students whose lives have been transformed by HLSR’s commitment to education. Rodeo Art Contest: Showing young artists and winning entries that have won scholarships and national recognition.
“These programs don’t just provide financial support,” Saenz said. “They showcase their students in ways they didn’t expect to see farming, business, or leadership.”
These events highlight how rodeo influences spread beyond entertainment, offering life-changing experiences that shape the future.
Why are people coming back at the rodeo?
For many Houstonians, rodeos are not just an annual event, they are lifelong traditions. The family returns year by year, not just for concert and carnival rides, but also for a sense of community and connection.
“It’s not just about watching the rodeo,” Saenz said. “You live it. You’re involved. You pass it.”
With 32,000 volunteers from multiple committees, anyone can contribute by mentoring young people, supporting livestock shows, and supporting fundraisers.
Looking to the future: Innovation and expansion
As Houston and the rodeo continue to grow, HLSR has expanded its reach through STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) initiatives and partners with schools to provide a hands-on learning experience of agriculture and sustainability.
Despite its evolution, Rodeo is deeply committed to its central mission, community, education and celebration.
“Rodeo is not just the past,” Saenz said. “That’s where we’re headed. We’re loyal to what makes Texas great, yet embracing the future.”
Whether you’re going to bull riding, concerts, or deep-fried rodeo food, one thing is for sure. Houston livestock shows and rodeos are more than just events. It is a critical part of Texas culture.
Event Information:
📍Location: NRG Park, Houston, Texas
📅 Performances will be held from Tuesday, March 4th, 2025 until Sunday, March 23rd, 2025
For chicken tickets and more information, please visit www.rodeohouston.com
