Inside Houston Rodeo 2026

Kelly Clarkson, Cowboys and Carnival Rides: Inside Houston Rodeo 2026

Running from 2-22 March 2026 at NRG Stadium, the Houston Livestock Show isn’t just a rodeo - it’s the largest livestock exhibition and rodeo in the world, drawing millions of visitors each year to celebrate cowboy culture, professional rodeo competition and headline concerts from global stars.  

For music lovers, the 2026 season promises a star-studded roster. RODEOHOUSTON has announced its entertainer lineup for the 20-day run, featuring iconic names and exciting newcomers alike. Luke Bryan and Tim McGraw return as longtime favourites, while chart-toppers like Lizzo join breakout acts including Russell Dickerson and Megan Moroney on the famed NRG Stadium star stage. Three artists - Dwight Yoakam, Kelly Clarkson and Cross Canadian Ragweed - will be making long-awaited returns after nearly two decades, and Latin stars including J Balvin and regional Mexican music legend Pepe Aguilar bring global rhythms to Go Tejano Day. For the country music fans, headline performers include Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, Shaboozey and Rascal Flats. Fans can expect an evening concert atmosphere every night, with full details and tickets available online.  

But the Rodeo is about much more than rodeo and music. Alongside the high-energy evening performances, visitors can explore a sprawling fairground of attractions: lively carnival rides and games, livestock and horse competitions that showcase the skill of top professional cowboys and cowgirls, and agricultural exhibitions that teach visitors of all ages about farm life and animal husbandry. The event also features one of the world’s largest livestock auctions and supports youth scholarships and educational programmes, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to community and education.  

For UK travellers planning a Rodeo adventure, Houston itself offers plenty to fill a longer stay. Must-do experiences in the city include: Exploring NASA’s Space Center Houston to learn about space exploration and see iconic rockets Wandering the Museum District’s 19 world-class cultural institutions including the Museum of Fine Arts Sampling Houston’s legendary food scene from Tex-Mex and brisket barbecue to Michelin-starred and recommended restaurants such as Nancy’s Hustle in the EaDo neighbourhood Shopping and nightlife in vibrant neighbourhoods like Midtown, Downtown and Montrose  

A standout new place to base yourself in Houston is Hotel Daphne, a boutique design-driven hotel that opened in late 2025 in the historic Heights neighbourhood. With just 49 stylish rooms, an Italian-inspired restaurant and bar, a cosy library, lush courtyard and curated retail space, the hotel offers a neighbourhood feel with easy access to Houston’s best dining, shopping and cultural attractions.  

Whether you’re there for the rodeo action, the live music, the food or the broader cultural offerings, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo offers a uniquely Texan experience that pairs big entertainment with genuine local spirit.   

For further information on Houston, please visit: visithouston.com / rodeohouston.com