We ask you - is there anything more Texan than a good old-fashioned rodeo?
Fun Fact: San Antonio is the birthplace of the American cowboy. Rope steering, bull riding, and busting broncos date back to the city’s earliest days with vaqueros on the Mission ranches.
Rodeos have been a Texas tradition since 1883, when the first rodeo took place in Pecos, Texas, where awards were doled out to winners of events.
Rodeos are a part of cowboy culture that we still enjoy - even today. And, they can be found in all parts of Texas, not just in Pecos, though our favorite is the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. If your San Antonio vacation takes place in mid-late February, then the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has to be on your to-do list! Here is what you need to know about this incredible event.
What Is the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo?
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is an annual event led by the PCRA, short for the Professional Cowboys & Rodeo Association. These festivities attract millions of visitors each year.
This year, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo takes over San Antonio from February 8 to 25, 2024.
At the rodeo, you can enjoy a wide variety of fun activities. Check out educational activities that teach you more about the history of cowboys and rodeos, or swing by various Western exhibits. Watch world-class entertainment, or check out the livestock and horse shows! Stroll through the shopping stalls and visit the carnival for even more fun and entertainment.
Hours and Admission
Hours of operation for the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo vary depending on the event you're attending - be sure to plan. As a general helpful guideline, doors open 90 minutes prior to each event.
Festival
If you are planning to visit the Fairgrounds for shopping, exhibits, and food, then single-day fairgrounds tickets are a great option. Children under 3 get into this event for free!
Carnival
For anyone wanting to visit the carnival as well as the fairgrounds, you are in for a treat. The carnival features rides as well as five different live music venues for you to check out!
To get into the carnival, you'll need to purchase a wristband, which also includes access to the fairgrounds.
The carnival is open from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sundays. Please note there are special hours on President's Day and the final Sunday of this event.
Live music venues are open all day, closing at 11:00 PM on Sundays through Thursdays and closing at 1:00 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
Additional Events & Activities
There are tons of events and activities that you can participate in at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. Swing by one of the many events that are held throughout the day. Here are the key events to check out!
Charreada
A charreada is a Mexican American tradition that combines dressage techniques and rodeos. It is a cultural exhibit that showcases the skill of ranchers and modern cowboys.
Ranch Rodeo A ranch rodeo takes you right back to the old west when cowboys would compete to see who was the best at his job. At this event, you can watch cowboys complete activities such as roping, steer loading, tying, and cal-branding.
Horse Events Check out roping, shoot-outs, barrel races, horse skillathons, and so much more!
Western Art Competition The Western Art competition is designed for high school students with a passion for creativity. In this competition, you are able to look at incredible western-themed artwork completed by local youth.
Livestock Show At the livestock show, you can check out San Antonio's finest cattle, pigs, sheep, and more! Competitors will show off their animal husbandry skills by exhibiting their prize animals.
Concerts From large renowned acts to local beloved favorites, music is essential to a great San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. Check out the concert lineup today!
And More! There are so many more events to experience and enjoy at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
Enjoy the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo and Enjoy San Antonio
The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo is the perfect way to spend a day or even a couple of days in the Alamo City. It is a place where the whole family can come together and embrace the Texan culture.
Do you want to learn even more about other events, activities and happenings in San Antonio? Be sure to check out the Visit San Antonio e-Newsletter so that you don't miss any events in this incredible city!
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