What’s New at the 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™

Celebrating America’s 250
The Rodeo is an official program partner of America 250, will serve as a founding partner for America Gives, helping to log and track volunteer hours alongside others across the country.

• Branded Rodeo and America 250 merchandise includes items such as a koozie, hat and t-shirt. Guests can purchase these items and official Rodeo merchandise locations across Rodeo grounds.
• Annual items like jackets, vests, gold badges, and souvenir cup will feature a nod to America 250.
• For all 21-days, American flags will surround the bow-legged H photo op.
• A Rockin’ America concert will happen at 4:15 p.m., daily on the Junction Stage, presented by Woodside Energy.
  • Red, white, and blue bandanas will be given to attendees at the Junction Stage during the concert.

 

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

Reimagining the Junction Stage, presented by Woodside Energy
The Junction Stage is being reimagined as a two-story, double-decker tent that adds seating and introduces a second-floor cool zone.

Charro on the Road, sponsored by La Michoacana Meat Market
Get ready to lasso as the one-and-only Tomas Garcilazo brings his award-winning rodeo act to the grounds in 2026. The third-generation charro will perform La Charreria in the Junction across from Fun on the Farm and Born to Buck, presented by Oxy. Performances will take place all 21 days of the Rodeo; times will be available on the RODEOHOUSTON Mobile App, powered by AXS.

Cody Johnson Concert-Only Performance:
Multi-platform country music star Cody Johnson will return to RODEOHOUSTON® for a special concert-only performance on Sunday, March 22, 2026. This marks Johnson’s sixth appearance at RODEOHOUSTON and just the fourth concert-only performance in event history. He is also the only entertainer, aside from George Strait, to perform on the 21st night of Rodeo. Jon Pardi and Randy Houser will open the evening, with Pardi making his fourth RODEOHOUSTON appearance and Houser stepping onto the star stage for the first time.

Doors to NRG Stadium will open at 5 p.m. Randy Houser will open the concert, Jon Pardi will follow, and Cody Johnson will close the evening. Johnson will start at approximately 8:30 p.m.

The RODEOHOUSTON competition will occur through the first 20 days of the event, beginning on Monday, March 2, with Finals being held on Saturday, March 21. There is no rodeo competition scheduled before the Cody Johnson concert, however, all activities on the grounds, including shopping and dining areas, carnival, livestock and horse show competitions, and other exhibits and attractions at NRG Park, will be open to the public on Sunday, March 22.

CARNIVAL, presented by First Community

New Rides

• Aviator
• Sound Storm
• Air Raid

FOOD

New Carnival Midway Foods

• Biggys- Dutch Fries
• Corn Shack – Loco Borracho Elote
• Corn Shack – Mike’s Hot Honey Corn
• Enzos Pizzeria – Pork-a-Palooza Pizza
• Candy Factory – Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup
• Fried A Fair – Dubai Chocolate Oreos
• Fried A Fair II – Biscoff cheesecake stick dipped in Chocolate or deep fried
• Fried A Fair – Dubai Chocolate Oreos
• Fried A Fair II – Biscoff cheesecake stick dipped in Chocolate or deep fried
• Mustards Café – Cheese on a Stick with Buldak Ramen
• Mustards Café – Cheese on a Stick with Takis

New Foods

• Alamo Tamales – Barbacoa Bowl and Chipotle Chicken Bowl
• Asian Streetness – Crunchy Sushi Balls
• Casa de Yummy – Cherries, Berries On A Cloud
• Darlin’s Fried Chicken – Chicken Fried Lobster and Chicken Tender Salad
• Fields of Corn – Cowboy Corn
• Finer Diner, Hawaiian – Pork Sliders
• Blue Ribbon – Bread Pudding and Cowboy Sushi
• Go Tejano Diner – Torta
• Holmes Smokehouse – Barbeque Smoked Sausage Sandwich
• Mamacita’s – Guac-a-rrons
• MiaBella’s Wood Fired Pizza – Cowboy Pizza
• Palmer’s Hot Chicken, Catfish and Shrimp – Hot Chicken Pancake Poppers
• Pioneer Wagon – Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dog and Loaded Cowboy Fries
• Richie’s Cheese Curd Tacos – Brisket Cheese Curd Tacos
• Rousso’s Fat Bacon – Bacon Jam Brisket Biscuit and Rousso’s Dubai Chocolate Funnel Cake Fries
• Sills Funnel Cakes & Food – Breakfast Cake
• Taco Love – The Loaded Grilled Avocado
• Texas Pride Grill – Brisket & Brew Stuffed Pretzel
• Texas Sized Pizza / Burger and Chili Shack – Skillet Potato Melt… Plus!
• The Cajun Cowboy – Bacon Jam Beignets & Brisket Boudin Balls and Shrimp and Andouille Sausage on a Stick
• The Teahouse – Loaded Platter Combo
• Waffle Chix – Strawberries and Cream Waffle Stick

New Food Vendors

• 1932 Cattleman’s Club
• Chute 32
• Mama Tina’s Gumbo

New Fine Dining Experience by Fertitta Entertainment: 1932 Cattleman’s Club
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is proud to announce a new fine dining experience by Fertitta Entertainment, a world-renowned hospitality company recognized for culinary excellence, innovative concepts, and immersive guest experiences. This collaboration will introduce a high-end, full-service dining destination, celebrating the bold flavors, exceptional hospitality, and Western flair that define the spirit of Houston’s largest annual event.

The new 1932 Cattleman’s Club will blend culinary artistry with Western sophistication. The menu celebrates the bold flavors of contemporary American cuisine. The venue, located at NRG Park on Stadium Drive, outside of NRG Stadium’s East entrance, will feature both lunch and dinner service, complemented by the children’s menu designed to bring new flavors to Rodeo’s youngest guests. Late-night offerings will also cater to fans looking for elevated, easy-access dining after the rodeo and concert performance.

About Chute 32
Chute 32 is an all-new quick-service restaurant operated by Fertitta Entertainment, located just outside the East VIP Club entrance and north of the fine-dining restaurant. This counter-service kitchen will feature a brand-new menu, including Wagyu on a stick, lobster rolls, the midnight cowboy dog, smoked brisket nachos and a loaded spud potato.

MERCHANDISE

New Official Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Merchandise includes:

• Scarves
• Woven blankets
• Stationery
• Christmas ornaments

Shop these items at new locations throughout the Rodeo grounds and in the online store.

New Shopping

• American Grains
• Archundi & Co.
• Certified Hustler Apparel
• Chapman Fashion
• Howdy House Kids
• Keja Jewelry
• Mostly Chocolate
• Novi Creations
• Rock ‘Em Boots
• Rockin’ AB
• Rosemary and Sage
• Ryan’s Woodworking
• Tin Roof Home
• Tru 180

Lane Boots Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Collection
Crafted in collaboration between the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s Chairman of the Board, Pat Mann Phillips, and the artisans at Lane Boots, this exclusive collection celebrates the legacy, grit, and grace that define Western heritage. Each boot design honors the Rodeo’s enduring mission—supporting agriculture, youth education, and the spirit of the West—through handcrafted details inspired by the traditions that laid the organization’s lasting legacy. From the RODEOHOUSTON® bronc silhouette etched in suede to the detailed stitching that honors our founding year, every element reflects the deep roots that built the world’s largest rodeo and the generations who keep it alive.

This 2026 collection includes a bootie, a knee high, and a square toe version for women, and a square toe option for men. Read more about the limited-edition boots HERE.

HEYDUDE Collaboration
HEYDUDE and the Rodeo are collaborating again on a custom shoe you can view and purchase at their new exhibit location just inside Hall E, NRG Center. Make sure to stop by and look at the new reimaged design for 2026! Limited quantities are available.

 New Activations

• Hennessy
• Fever Tree
• Visit College Station
• Wrangler

Hennessy Roadhouse
In a brand-new activation near the Junction area, guests can experience the partner’s unique fusion of Texas culture and Hennessy. The space will feature a handpicked lineup of Texas DJs, exclusive prizes, customized merchandise, dancing and more.

Visit College Station
Visit College Station is bringing the Heart of Aggieland to a Texas-size stage at NRG Center. Guests can stop by their booth to feel like a snapshot of the city, blending deep-rooted traditions, Texas A&M spirit and the energy of a growing must-visit destination.

SPECIAL DAYS
Here is a look at what’s new on select Special Days. This does not reflect the entire schedule for each day. For more information, visit RODEOHOUSTON.com.

Monday, March 2: Opening Day, presented by Shell Federal Credit Union

• Beginning at 2 p.m. the first 10,000 guests will receive a 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo belt buckle.

Wednesday, March 4: Armed Forces Appreciation Day, presented by Crown Royal

• The Rodeo grounds will be dressed in red, white and blue.
• At the stadium, a powerful display of 70,000 hand-held American flags will take place during the rappel, exemplifying the America Waves initiative that brings communities together nationwide to simultaneously wave flags, celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, and recognize the individuals who have shaped our nation throughout its history.

Monday, March 9: First Responders Day, presented by BP America

• New Volunteer First Responder of the Year Award: The Armed Forces Appreciation Committee has added a new category to recognize outstanding volunteer first responders. The award category will recognize one single volunteer and one group.
  • The public ceremony will take place on the second floor of NRG Center at 4 p.m.

NRG STADIUM

Cantina, presented by Casamigos Tequila
In its largest partnership with the Rodeo, Casamigos Tequila is bringing a reimagined atmosphere to the 5,000 square-foot space, including exclusive ready-to-drink beverages made with its Blanco and Reposado expressions. Two specialty cocktails are also being crafted, including the Watermelon Chili Margarita and the Casa Paloma.

Cowboy Cam, sponsored by Carnival
The stadium’s Cowboy Cam is all new, featuring an AI-generated animation on the big screen. Throughout the Rodeo, attendees can scan a QR code to generate a personalized AI photo and have it sent directly to them to keep.

Super Series Presentation, sponsored by Alberta Boot Company Outfitters
All 45 RODEOHOUSTON Super Series winners will take home more than just a title, thanks to Alberta Boot Company Outfitters, which will award custom RODEOHOUSTON-branded boots featuring each athlete’s initials.

RODEOHOUSTON® Competition Updates
We’re excited to welcome 70 first-time competitors to RODEOHOUSTON this year, highlighting new talent while showcasing Houston and the volunteers who bring the Rodeo to life.

RODEOHOUSTON® Hall of Fame
Champion bull rider Ty Murray and legendary bucking bull Bodacious will be inducted into the RODEOHOUSTON Hall of Fame as its third class. Bodacious is the first rodeo animal to be inducted.

Known for his unmatched power and unpredictable athleticism, he made a lasting impression during his appearances at RODEOHOUSTON inside the Astrodome in the mid-1990s. Murray is a 6X RODEOHOUSTON Champion including four all-around titles and two bull riding titles. He was also one of the last contestants to be crowned All-Around Champion at RODEOHOUSTON.

An induction ceremony will take place Tuesday, March 10, 2026, in front of the permanent display, located on the second floor of NRG Center. A temporary display can be seen inside NRG Stadium, Section 133, for fans to visit throughout the 21-day event.

Website and RODEOHOUSTON Mobile App, powered by AXS
Visit rodeohouston.com and download the RODEOHOUSTON Mobile app to best plan and prepare for your visit to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Purchase or access tickets, load up on carnival packs and livestream both the Rodeo and livestock show. Access the interactive map for turn-by-turn directions to all your favorite rides, games and food.

Upgraded features include:

• Upgraded Daily Schedule with a “build your own schedule” feature
• RODEOHOUSTON athlete results with dynamic advancements
• Additional all marketing and promotional options