It’s the most wonderful time of the year, y’all — Houston Rodeo season is upon us. Buff your boots, dust off your dancing shoes and get ready to enjoy one of Houston’s richest traditions.
The largest rodeo in the south, the Houston Rodeo is packed with events for the whole family. But the Rodeo isn’t all about the buckin’ broncs and concerts, there’s a wealth of experience outside the arena as well. The Ray Cammack Shows Carnival Midway hosts a huge fairground with shopping, 58 carnival games, 79 rides, a livestock center, and more food than we know what to do with. From games, to treats, to seeing our idols win their events – there’s no better way to spend an evening in March. Here are Harry’s recommendations for Rodeo 2017.
Watch the Rodeo | Watching the best talent in the country is exhilarating. If you want to get an appreciation for the sport, take a spin on a mechanical bull.
Image Credit: Houston Rodeo
See The View | The Houston Rodeo has the largest portable ferris wheel, called the La Grande Wheel, in the western hemisphere. If you’re taking it for a spin, expect leather seats, air-conditioning and glass floors. If the line is too long, ride the 1,700-foot Sky Ride across the entire NG Park.
Image Credit: Chuck Cook Photography
Eat Your Fill | The carnie food park is one of the main attractions of the Houston Rodeo. Each year staggering amounts of food are enjoyed by 2 million rodeo-goers. At Rodeo 2017, there will be 38 food stands offering must eats and new inventions. Food offerings range from:
- the bizarre (bacon Nutella pickle)
- the brilliant (bacon cotton candy from last year’s carnival was genius)
- the sinful (deep fried chocolate covered marshmallows along with deep-fried everything)
- the classic (corny dogs, funnel cakes and turkey legs)
- the decadent (rack of lamb with twice baked potato fries).
For the Kiddos | From petting zoos to camel rides, there is no shortage of fun activities for the kiddos. Kids can ride sheep, watching a birthing or get hands-on experience in the milking parlor. They also have a petting zoo and dedicated rides and games.
Can’t Miss Live Music | The Houston Rodeo lineup is as diverse of Houston itself. Houstonia Magazine writes that the rodeo lineup offers a range from “classic to contemporary country crooners, like Willie Nelson and Florida Georgia Line, to pop and R&B artists, like Meghan Trainor and Alicia Keys.” There’s still time to catch a few more of our must sees which include:
- Chris Stapleton (Thursday, March 9) – Chris Stapleton is a powerful, must-see show. 5 minutes in and you will understand why he’s been showered with awards.
- Alicia Keys (Friday, March 10) – Girl power and a soaring voice, Keys is a beautiful vocalist and excellent entertainer.
- Alan Jackson (Saturday, March 11) – A tried and true rodeo favorite with old country twang and smooth voice.
- Willie Nelson (Saturday, March 18) – The Texas legend doesn’t look a day over 30 strumming on stage. You can’t pass up a show by Texas’ home-grown hero.
- Zac Brown Band (Sunday, March 26) – The country rockers thrill audiences with every performance — we love boot stompin’ with them every chance we get.
Dress the Part | Jeans are the crucial component in rodeo fashion. Harry’s staff denim picks are Rock and Roll Jeans and Dear John jeans. From there you can play up your personal style, western or not.
If you’re an aspiring cowboy, your classic Rodeo outfit is jeans (we recommend Rock N Roll Jeans), boots and a button up. Learn how to starch your jeans just right for the ultimate cowboy effect. Not a cowboy? Jeans, a plain v-neck t-shirt, sneakers, and a ball cap are always in style. Heck, the ladies might even mistake you for Luke Bryan (not every country star rocks a cowboy hat).
If Nashville is more your style than Westworld, opt for a dark-washed straight leg jean and a casual t-shirt (tucked in front). Add a statement bracelet or necklace, some pearl earrings and dual colored leather boots to create a stunning, sleek outfit with just the right touch of western. Not into cowboy boots? Try a fringe bootie. If you want to channel your true west self, opt for our Dear John Backstage Midnight Jeans. These cowgirl favorites add a little flare to your outfit, perfectly dressing up your favorite boots. Pair with a simple t-shirt and your tried-and-true belt.
