The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo comes and goes in February, but every Saturday night in one tiny city north of town, the barrel racing and bull riding (real and mechanical) kicks up dust well into the fall.
Tejas Rodeo’s season runs from the first weekend in March until the last weekend in November in Bulverde, a short trip up Highway 281 from San Antonio. Visitors from all over come donning boots and cowboy hats for the Saturday night rodeo, which features calf roping, mutton busting and more events. Before the show, Tejas Steakhouse and Saloon serves up dinner for hungry guests — but barbecue concessions and cold beers are available outside as well. After the last buzzer, visitors can pony up and ride a mechanical bull or make their way over to the dance floor for some two-stepping and live country music.
It all started when business partners Yancey James and Trey Martin founded Tejas Rodeo in 2006 with just a covered arena and bucking chutes. The rest is history, but a spokesperson walked MySA through what’s changed in the past two decades.
“The growth of Tejas Rodeo since opening in 2006 has been substantial,” the spokesperson said in an email. “Over the years, we’ve seen tremendous growth in attendance, with guests visiting not only from across Texas but from all over the United States and around the world. We’ve also seen a renewed appreciation for the Western lifestyle and cowboy culture, with many visitors wanting an authentic Texas experience. As we’ve grown, we’ve expanded the arena with additional seating, added Tejas Steakhouse & Saloon, Western Sky Wedding & Event Venue, and the Tejas Company Store, and hosting hundreds of private events each year. While Tejas has expanded, our mission remains the same: to provide a family-friendly, authentic Texas rodeo that celebrates Western heritage.”
Speaking of attendance, the place does get packed. It’s best to come early to secure a good parking spot (cars park in rows in one unlined gravel lot) and seat (bleacher seating), especially if you need time for the steakhouse or a concessions run. You can buy a reserved seat, but stands in the general seating sections fill up quickly as showtime approaches and can be a hassle to move in and out of.
As for how much you can expect to spend for general admission, budget around $32 for each adult in your group and about $22 for every child 12 and under. A discount is available with a military ID. Expect to drop a little bit more if you’re springing for reserved seats and any food, drinks or merch. Another piece of advice — drive slowly when you leave, as this stretch of the Texas Hill Country is perfect for looking at the stars but lacks street lights. Tejas is on a winding country road, and it’s not uncommon to see deer peeking out from the trees.
Find it: 401 Obst Road, Bulverde, TX 78163