In Texas, Western pride runs deep and nowhere is it louder than at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Fresh off a record-breaking 2025 season, buzz is already building for 2026. And now, it’s official: country powerhouse Cody Johnson will close out next year’s Rodeo as the Star Entertainer. Ten months out, and the countdown is already on.
Johnson will perform on the 21st day with a full-length concert performance, the first one of its kind since 2022. He will be the first entertainer other than George Strait to perform on the Rodeo’s fourth 21st day.
As a country music favorite and what will be a six-time returning entertainer, Johnson has set RODEOHOUSTON fans on fire with the news of his return. The comments on social media speak for themselves!
“I knew it!!!! Best. News. EVER!!!!,” Nastasya Jones commented. “Already counting down the days till Rodeo 2026 and COJO! 🤠” Madison Jones said. “This is amazing. He puts on a great show,” Vickey Hernandez also commented. The news, shared in several social media posts from @RODEOHOUSTON, came in three waves: A video post, an announcement poster with his performance date and a birthday post for Johnson, who shared a birthday with the announcement date! Some fans saw the news as a birthday gift to Johnson, themselves, and to Houston! “Happy Birthday to Us!! ,” Hola Ramos Chapa said. “Great news on his birthday… and mine,” Jeanette Lira commented.
Johnson has performed at RODEOHOUSTON five times, which includes 2017-2019, 2022 and 2023. Since 2017, Johnson has become a fan favorite with his unforgettable presence on the star stage. His 2023 performance welcomed more than 73,000 fans, and in 2022, he drew in more than 70,500 fans. On March 6, 2024, Johnson surprised Rodeo guests during Jelly Roll’s performance.
Even with months to go, RODEOHOUSTON fans’ reactions to Johnson returning in 2026 is sure to promise another packed audience.
“I know what my friends are doing March 22,” Shaely Tarr commented.
“We will be there!! Can’t miss this,” Lori Van Fleet O’Krinksy said.
“Can he perform for 2 days?! He’s instantly gonna sell out. My favorite artist! I’m so excited,” Cynthia Leija said on Facebook.
“I need tickets,” Mary Berkenmeier commented.
Mark your calendars now! Individual tickets for Johnson’s concert-only performance go on sale to the public on Thursday, August 21. More information about tickets to Johnson’s performance will be available at RODEOHOUSTON.com throughout the summer.
To read the full announcement about Cody Johnson’s performance, click here. To learn more about ticket pricing click here.