Y’all, this is the ultimate Texas tradition that a trueTexan cannot miss – and we are about to fill you in on everything you need to know to do it up right! The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo isn't just a meet-up for folks and their animals – it's the world's largest livestock show. Like 2.5 million people, huge. So, our first tip to make the most of it, is to plan ahead. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned rodeo-er, we've got everything you need to know, including where to find the best burgers in town (duh).

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WHAT IS THE HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW AND RODEO?

This isn't your average rodeo. We're talking about RodeoHouston, the biggest, most exciting celebration of Western heritage you'l lever experience. Picture this: world-class professional cowboys and cowgirls, chart-topping musicians every night, and a high-stakes world championship barbecue competition – all in one place!

Here's something that'll warm your heart: since 1957, this incredible event has given more than $550 million in scholarships to Texas students. That's right, while you're having the time of your life at the rodeo, you're also helping raise up the next generation of Texas leaders. 

RodeoHouston is 3 glorious weeks of non-stop action. We're talking about professional rodeo competitions that'll have you on the edge of your seat, and when the sun goes down, NRG Stadium turns into the hottest concert venue in Texas. It doesn't get better than this!

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TOP ATTRACTIONS AT THE HOUSTON RODEO

RODEO HOUSTON SUPER SERIES

Ready for some serious action? The RODEOHOUSTON Super Series is where the magic happens! We're talking about the best of the best going head-to-head for over $2 million in prize money. Every single night, you'll witness seven heart-pounding events that'll have you holding your breath – from cowboys trying to tame wild bulls to cowgirls racing around barrels at lightning speed. This tournament-style competition builds excitement throughout the three-week run, leading up to the RODEOHOUSTON Super Series Champion ship where champions are crowned in each event.

STAR STAGE ENTERTAINERS

Now, here's where things get really exciting! After the dust settles from all that rodeo action, grab your boots and scoot on over to see some of the biggest names in music light up the stage. The best part? That stage spins like a Texas tornado, so there's not a bad seat in the house! We've seen everyone from George Strait to Beyoncé rock this rodeo, and your ticket gets you both the rodeo AND the concert. Talk about bang for your buck!

WORLD'S CHAMPIONSHIP BAR-B-QUE CONTEST

For three whole days, more than 250 teams smoke, grill, and serve up some of the finest BBQ you'll ever taste. Now, most team tents are invite-only (time to make some new friends!), but visitors can head over to theMiller Lite Garden, The Rockin' Bar-B-Que Saloon, or the Cobra CollectiveGarden for good eats, live music, and honky-tonk dancing. 

CARNIVAL

Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the carnival. 50+acres of pure joy, twinkling lights, and more than 70 rides and games that'll bring out the kid in anyone. Want our advice? Take a sunset ride on La GrandeWheel XL – it's one of the biggest Ferris wheels in the Western Hemisphere, and the view of Houston's skyline will take your breath away. Grab those carnival packs ahead of time to save some cash (more money for funnel cakes, am I right?). The best part is the carnival runs the whole time, even during the BBQ Cook-off, so you can bring the whole family any day you please!

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WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK NEAR THE HOUSTON RODEO

After cheering on those cowboys and dancing to your favorite artists, you're gonna work up quite an appetite. Here are our top picks near NRG Stadium:

HOPDODDY BURGER BAR

Hopdoddy isn't your average burger joint – we're talking hand-ground meats, buns baked fresh daily, and some of the friendliest folks around. There are two locations close to the rodeo action:

• Rice Village (2.7 miles from NRG Stadium): Perfect for that post-rodeo burger craving! Grab a craft beer, kick back, and swap stories about your favorite moments     of the day. 
• River Oaks (8.3 miles from NRG Stadium): Looking for a nice dinner spot before heading back to your hotel? This location's got you covered with amazing burgers and stellar service.

Pro tip: Try the Llano Poblano burger – it's got roasted chilies and pepper jack cheese that'll make your taste buds do a little Texas two-step!

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OTHER NOTABLE NEARBY RESTAURANTS

• Killen's BBQ: World-famous Texas barbecue
• The Breakfast Klub: The cure for your morning-after-rodeo blues
• Taste of Texas: When you're feeling fancy for true Texas flavor
• Tiny's No. 5: Perfect for casual American fare
• State of Grace: Get dolled up and treat yourself to some amazing Gulf Coast cuisine

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WHERE TO STAY DURING THE HOUSTON RODEO

Let’s talk about where to rest your head (and feet) afterall that rodeo fun. We've rounded up our favorite spots for every budget:

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FANCY DIGS

• Marriott Marquis Houston: A Texas-shaped lazy river on the roof? Worth. Every. Penny.
• Post Oak Hotel: Live your best life with five-star everything
• Four Seasons Houston: They've got a rodeo shuttle, y'all – need we say more?

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WON’T BREAK THE BANK 

• Crown Plaza NRG: So close you can practically smell the BBQ from your room
• Hotel ZaZa Museum District: Quirky-cool vibes that'll make your Instagram followers jealous
• Westin Galleria: Shop till you drop, then rodeo till you can't rodeo no more

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BUDGET-FRIENDLY BEDS

• Holiday Inn NRG Area: Clean and comfy, for a great price
• Best Western Plus NRG: More money for carnival rides!
• La Quinta Inn & Suites Southwest: Perfect if you're traveling with your four-legged friends

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STAY IN THE KNOW (AKA HOW TO RODEO LIKE A PRO)

Make the most of your Houston Rodeo experience with these essential tips:

PLANNING YOUR VISIT

• Snag those tickets early on the official Houston Rodeo website 
• Download the RODEOHOUSTON mobile app – it's like having a rodeo expert in your pocket
• Check the daily schedule (you don't want to miss your favorite country star's performance)

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GETTING THERE AND AROUND

• The METRO Rail is your best friend – no parking headaches, no problem!
• Use ride-sharing services for convenience
• If you're driving (bless your heart):
   
  • Park in a satellite lot  and ride a shuttle to NRG Park for easier in-and-out
   
  • All official NRG parking lots are cashless - plan ahead!

OUR FAVORITE INSIDER TIPS

• Show up early – there's so much to see before the main events
• Bring cash! Some vendors are old school and don’t accept cards 
• Wear your comfy shoes (or broken-in boots) because you'll be doing a LOT of walking

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All that to say: the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo isn't just an event, it's a Texas-sized celebration of everything we love about the Lone Star State! Whether you're coming for the rodeo action, the toe-tapping tunes, or the mouth-watering food, you're in for a treat that'll have you planning your next visit before you even leave.

Check out the official Houston Rodeo website for all the latest updates on schedules, parking, and special events.

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