HOUSTON – The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo kicks off in just a few weeks. While fans will get to experience the traditional rodeo experience, there are also a lot of new things to look forward to this year.
According to President and CEO, Joel Cowley, there will be a lot of new places for photo ops, fun things for the kids and all kinds of new experiences.
Here are some of the new things coming to the 2020 Rodeo:
For the “gram”:
One of the new attractions highlighted by Cowley was the 3-D rodeo photo op and “The Social Spur."
The photo op includes giant letters that spell out RODEO and make for the perfect Insta post. “The Social Spur,” located near the McNee entrance, is a social media hub and interactive social media experience where people can recharge their phones, refill their water and more.
Things to do:
This year’s Rodeo will also feature plenty of new exhibits including a walkthrough aviary, where people can see, feed and interact with parakeets, a balloon mural that the artist will continue to grow throughout the duration of the Rodeo and a farming simulator, and interactive game where people can build their own virtual farm and test their agricultural skills.
There will also be an exhibit called Born to Buck located at The Junction that showcases generations of bucking horses and will also have mares and their babies for families to interact with. People will get the chance to learn about the animals and their lives inside and outside the Rodeo.
Also at The Junction, the “Extreme Dogs” show will feature rescue dogs that have been trained to do all kinds of stunts and tricks like dock diving, high jumps and other tricks.
People at the carnival will get the chance to enjoy a new New York-themed funhouse called the New York New York and some new games. “Bottle Up” is a game where people can test their balance by standing on a sloped platform. Top Glo is a group game where 14 people will spray water guns at a target to see who can get to the top first.
Things to eat:
It’s not the Rodeo without some good barbecue and a wide variety of fried foods. On top of the new rides, games and exhibits, this year’s Rodeo will also feature some new things to try.
Some of the new things to try include handmade burgers, mac and cheese, a dessert place and other treats at The Junction. At the NRG Circle drive, you can not get Auntie Anne’s Pretzels or donuts from Fredericksburg Mini-Donut Co. There is also a new Mexican spot at the Park Rodeo Plaza and a new American spot at the arena.
Things to know:
For people who use ride-share apps, the pick-up and drop-off location will be in the Miller Lite Yellow Lot 38. The entrance will be at Gate 16B off Main Street. This is the only access to the lot and there will be no left turn access from the southbound lanes.
The Rodeo will also have it’s first sensory-friendly experience on March 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., where fans of all ages with sensory sensitivities or challenges will get a chance to enjoy Rodeo Houston.
For parents who need a break for their little one, there will be baby stations in multiple locations around the Rodeo grounds. The stations are climate controlled and offer a private quiet space for parents.
Rodeo Houston runs from March 3 – 22. For more details on what’s new at the Rodeo, visit the Rodeo Houston website.