Each night, once the Rodeo dust settles, a superstar takes the stage to entertain the crowds. The star entertainers begin performing after the last rodeo event is completed each evening and the stage is set. Actual start times for the concert can vary day to day due to the different number of rodeo competitors and other production elements.

The 2024 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo runs Feb. 27 through March 17, with three days of pre-rodeo events starting Feb. 22.

World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest
The World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest brings together more than 250 barbecue teams competing for titles in the best brisket, ribs, chicken and desserts.

There will even be a Junior Cook-off Contest for children between the ages of 8 and 14, which will be held Friday, Feb. 23.

Unfortunately for eager pitmasters, the registration for next year has closed. Most team tents will be invitation-only, but there will still be other events for the public. Tickets cost $20 for ages 13 and over and $10 for children ages 3-12

Some Events Leading Up to the Event Are:

Rodeo Roundup & Go Texan Day
Go Texan Day is slated for Friday, Feb. 23, with a public Rodeo Roundup at Houston City Hall.

People across Houston wear their best Western outfits on this day, and the free Roundup event offers a chance to show off and enjoy a free chopped barbecue sandwich, provided by the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Committee. There will also be live music and photo opportunities atop a Texas Longhorn steer.

Notable Changes
Starting with the 2024 rodeo, weekend shows will now begin an hour earlier than previous years. NRG Stadium doors will open to the public at 2 p.m. on weekends, and shows will now begin at 2:45 p.m. instead of 3:45. Now guests will get the added luxury of more time at the parade grounds after attending concerts and official rodeo competitions.