HOUSTON - With so many fun things to do at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, picking a favorite can seem like a nearly impossible task. So, the KPRC 2 News Today team voted and came up with the top 5 must-see things to do at the Houston Rodeo.
5. Birthing Center
There’s nothing cuter than baby animals. You can watch the little ones take their first steps and bond with their mothers. You might get lucky enough to see a live birth. To take in the miracle of life, just head on over to “AGventure” to find it.
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4. Carnival Rides
From the new to the old favorites, the carnival has something for everyone. There are four new rides this year – including a jungle-themed beach ride and a mirror maze. Did you know our rodeo boasts one of the largest portable Ferris wheels in the Western Hemisphere? La Grande XL is back for a second year. You can soar to heights of 130 feet and see 360-degree views of the rodeo grounds. There are 36 air-conditioned cabins, complete with padded leather seats. There is plenty of room for you and three of your besties.
3. Shopping
The rodeo has more than 300 vendors, so there’s something for everyone. There’s a new outdoor shopping location on the west side of the Astrodome, called “Lone Star Market.” Did you know you can also shop for Rodeo official merchandise online?
Our morning team specifically mentioned unique jewelry, art and unusual team items (think U of H, UT or Texas A&M) that you just don’t find a lot of other places.
2. Food
We love to eat, and let’s face it – who doesn’t?! The rodeo has it all. There are new options this year – including Fruteria Cano and The Original Minneapple Pie. Our staff favorites are funnel cakes, anything fried, and food on a stick! Each year the rodeo awards “Gold Buckle Foodie” awards in eight categories: Best Dessert, Best New Flavor, Classic Fair Food, Best Food-on-a-Stick, Best Value Food, Best Fried Food, Most Creative Food, and Best Breakfast Food. We’re pulling for Fruity Pebbles and shrimp-on-a-stick.
1. Rodeo events
Some people are so focused on the concert, they forget to take in the rodeo itself. From the Bull Riding to the Chuck Wagon Races to the Calf Scramble to everyone’s favorite - Mutton Bustin’. The rodeo begins at 6:45 p.m. weekdays and 3:45 p.m weekends. Make sure you arrive early enough to take it all in – don’t miss out.
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE HERE!
Honorable mentions:
Concerts
The rodeo welcomes performers from all genres of music, but of course country music is its staple. Gene Autry was the first star to take the stage in 1942. There are six new performers this year: Leon Bridges, Kelsea Ballerini, Alessia Cara, Calibre 50, J Balvin and OneRepublic. Did you know, two of this year’s performers are homegrown Texans? Welcome home, Leon Bridges and Cody Johnson.
Petting Zoo
This petting zoo goes beyond sheep and goats. There are a wide variety of animals – both exotic and farm animals. There is even one from "Down Under."
Pig Races
What’s a rodeo visit without taking in a pig race? Pick our your favorites and cheer ‘em on! The races run every hour from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., so you have lots of options to get to one.
The Wine Garden
Need to relax and take a break? The Wine Garden can help you unwind. Listen to live music and choose from more than 70 wines.
People Watching
More than 2 million people attend the rodeo each year. It brings people from all walks of life, many who take time to dress the part. Enjoy our diversity and take time to take it all in.
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