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Rodeo and Must-Sees in Texas

It’s impossible to think of Texas without associating it with the rodeo.

The excitement of riding bulls, wrestling steers, and roping calves is considered a benchmark of being a true Texan.

Thanks to the Spanish missionaries who taught horsemanship in Texas, the “American cowboy” was born and a lasting American identity was made.

The rodeo as spectator sport

While some professional competitors of the sport consider themselves both athletes and cowboys, others (especially the fans) seem to see rodeo as pure spectator sport.

In fact, pageantry and theatrics play a huge role in a rodeo show. Unfortunately, animal activists see the rodeo as an act of cruelty.

No matter how you look at it, the rodeo will always be a great reminder of the Wild West. Tourists still attend these shows to witness the controversial spectacle. Visitors also enjoy staying in recreational or “dude” ranches to experience the cowboy lifestyle.

Popular rodeos

Rodeos aren’t just rodeos. In Texas, they are accompanied by concerts, fairs, and other recreational activities. The following are must-sees for Texans and tourists alike:

Fort Worth Livestock Show and Rodeo

This fantastic Texas tradition started back in 1896. This event has it all and is twenty-three days long! Events include: Livestock show, Rodeo, Parade, shopping, museums and live music!

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

It might come as a shock but more than 2 million people attend this 3-week rodeo event in Houston, billed as the biggest in the world. Wow!

Founded in 1931, this rodeo aims to promote the breeding, raising and marketing of better livestock and farm product, while at the same time funding scholarship programs. Rodeo participants get a chance to win $1.5 million in prize money from the various competitions.

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

This annual rodeo features contests like saddle bronco riding, team roping, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and many more. Children can join in the fun, too. A unique event called The Mutton Bustin’ lets 4- to 7-year-olds ride a sheep for at least 6 seconds.

Stockyards Championship Rodeo

Texans just can’t get enough of their bull riding so they do it every Friday and Saturday at Fort Worth. This rodeo arena is actually part of the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, home to the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.