Houston Celebrates Western Heritage with Rodeo Parade

Annual downtown parade features cowboys, horses, and cattle ahead of major livestock show and concerts.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Houston is celebrating its Western culture and traditions with the annual Downtown Rodeo Parade, the traditional parade of cowboys, horses, and cattle making their way to the NRG Center for the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.

Why it matters

The rodeo parade is a long-standing tradition in Houston that kicks off the city's biggest annual event, drawing thousands of spectators to witness the pageantry of the Old West. It highlights Houston's enduring cowboy heritage and the continued importance of the livestock industry to the local economy.

The details

The parade features riders from the Mission Trail Ride, who are continuing their journey from Goliad along Post Oak Boulevard toward Memorial Park to officially start the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. The event includes cowboys, horses, and cattle making their way through the city's downtown streets.

  • The parade takes place on Friday, February 28, 2025.
  • The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo runs from February 28 to March 19, 2025.

The players

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

An annual event held in Houston, Texas that features a large livestock show, rodeo competitions, concerts, and other entertainment.

Mission Trail Ride

A group of riders who participate in an annual journey from Goliad to Houston to kick off the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.

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What’s next

The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo will continue for three weeks after the parade, featuring a variety of rodeo events, concerts, and other activities.

The takeaway

The annual rodeo parade is a celebration of Houston's Western heritage and the enduring importance of the livestock industry to the local economy and culture.