Dixie National Rodeo 2026 Kicks Off with Concerts, Parade, and More

The annual event in Jackson, Mississippi features rodeo shows, livestock competitions, and a variety of family-friendly activities.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

The 61st Dixie National Rodeo is set to take place from February 2 to February 22, 2026, at the fairgrounds in Jackson, Mississippi. The event will feature rodeo shows, concerts with country music stars like Tanya Tucker, a parade, a marketplace, and an outdoor expo. The annual Dixie National Parade will kick off the festivities on February 14, with a theme of "For Love of Country" to coincide with America250, a celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Why it matters

The Dixie National Rodeo is a long-standing tradition in Mississippi, drawing thousands of visitors to the state capital each year. The event showcases the state's agricultural heritage and provides opportunities for young livestock competitors to showcase their skills and potentially earn scholarships.

The details

The Dixie National Rodeo will feature a variety of events, including rodeo shows, livestock competitions, and a marketplace selling cowboy Western wear, leather goods, and farming equipment. The Mississippi Ag and Outdoor Expo will also take place during the second weekend of the rodeo, featuring displays of fishing and hunting tools, UTVs, ATVs, tractors, and more. The annual Dixie National Sale of Junior Champions will allow young 4-H and FFA competitors to show off their livestock and potentially win scholarships.

  • The Dixie National Rodeo festivities will begin on February 2, 2026 and conclude on February 22, 2026.
  • The Dixie National Parade will take place on February 14, 2026 at 10:30 a.m.
  • The Mississippi Ag and Outdoor Expo will be open on the following dates and times: [insert dates and times from the article]
  • The Dixie National Sale of Junior Champions scholarship ceremony will take place on February 12, 2026 at 11 a.m.

The players

Andy Gipson

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, who will lead the Dixie National Parade.

Tanya Tucker

Country music icon who will perform at the 61st annual Dixie National Rodeo.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Every year, the Dixie National Parade helps kick off the rodeo festivities.”

— Mary Boyte, Author (clarionledger.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The Dixie National Rodeo is a beloved annual event in Mississippi that celebrates the state's agricultural heritage and provides opportunities for young livestock competitors to showcase their skills and potentially earn scholarships. The 2026 edition of the event promises to be a fun-filled celebration for the whole family.