A legendary bucking bull will make RodeoHouston history as the first animal inducted into the Hall of Fame. That’s just one of dozens of changes coming in 2026.

HOUSTON — The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo announced sweeping changes for its 2026 event, partnering with America 250 to celebrate the nation’s semiquincentennial while introducing new attractions, dining experiences and entertainment options across its 21-day run from March 2-22.

Country music star Cody Johnson will headline a special concert-only performance on Sunday, March 22, marking just the fourth such event in rodeo history. Johnson is the only entertainer besides George Strait to perform on the 21st night. Jon Pardi and Randy Houser will open the evening, with doors opening at 5 p.m.

Fertitta Entertainment is bringing two new dining concepts to NRG Park. The 1932 Cattleman’s Club will offer full-service fine dining for lunch and dinner, while nearby Chute 32 will serve quick-service fare including Wagyu on a stick and lobster rolls.

More than 30 new food items debut this year, ranging from Chicken Fried Lobster to Dubai Chocolate Oreos and Bacon Jam Brisket Biscuit. The carnival adds three new rides: Aviator, Sound Storm and Air Raid.

The Junction Stage transforms into a two-story, double-decker tent with additional seating and a second-floor cool zone. Third-generation charro Tomas Garcilazo will perform La Charreria daily.

In the stadium, Casamigos Tequila is reimagining the 5,000-square-foot Cantina space with specialty cocktails. The Cowboy Cam gets an AI upgrade, allowing attendees to scan QR codes for personalized AI-generated photos.

On March 10, champion bull rider Ty Murray and legendary bucking bull Bodacious will be inducted into the RodeoHouston Hall of Fame. Bodacious becomes the first rodeo animal inducted.

The patriotic theme will be woven throughout the event, with American flags surrounding the bow-legged H photo op and a daily Rockin’ America concert at 4:15 p.m. Opening Day on March 2 will give the first 10,000 guests a 2026 belt buckle.


New rodeo rides

AviatorSound StormAir Raid


New carnival midway foods

Biggys- Dutch FriesCorn Shack – Loco Borracho EloteCorn Shack – Mike’s Hot Honey CornEnzos Pizzeria – Pork-a-Palooza PizzaCandy Factory – Dubai Chocolate Strawberry CupFried A Fair – Dubai Chocolate OreosFried A Fair II – Biscoff cheesecake stick dipped in Chocolate or deep friedFried A Fair – Dubai Chocolate OreosFried A Fair II – Biscoff cheesecake stick dipped in Chocolate or deep friedMustards Café – Cheese on a Stick with Buldak RamenMustards Café – Cheese on a Stick with Takis


New foods

Alamo Tamales – Barbacoa Bowl and Chipotle Chicken BowlAsian Streetness – Crunchy Sushi BallsCasa de Yummy – Cherries, Berries On A CloudDarlin’s Fried Chicken – Chicken Fried Lobster and Chicken Tender SaladFields of Corn – Cowboy CornFiner Diner, Hawaiian – Pork SlidersBlue Ribbon – Bread Pudding and Cowboy SushiGo Tejano Diner – TortaHolmes Smokehouse – Barbeque Smoked Sausage SandwichMamacita’s – Guac-a-rronsMiaBella’s Wood Fired Pizza – Cowboy PizzaPalmer’s Hot Chicken, Catfish and Shrimp – Hot Chicken Pancake PoppersPioneer Wagon – Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dog and Loaded Cowboy FriesRichie’s Cheese Curd Tacos – Brisket Cheese Curd TacosRousso’s Fat Bacon – Bacon Jam Brisket Biscuit and Rousso’s Dubai Chocolate Funnel Cake FriesSills Funnel Cakes & Food – Breakfast CakeTaco Love – The Loaded Grilled AvocadoTexas Pride Grill – Brisket & Brew Stuffed PretzelTexas-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 StickThe Teahouse – Loaded Platter ComboWaffle Chix – Strawberries and Cream Waffle Stick


New food vendors

1932 Cattleman’s ClubChute 32Mama Tina’s Gumbo

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