The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is returning in 2026 with a spectacular entertainment lineup that promises something for every music fan. Headliners like Cody Johnson and Russell Dickerson are confirmed, and fans can expect a mix of country, pop, R&B, Latin, rock, and Christian music across the 21-day event. With concerts at NRG Stadium and themed nights celebrating everything from Texas culture to heritage days, the 2026 rodeo is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. Here’s a detailed guide to the schedule, ticket sales, performers, and what to expect at this must-attend Houston event.
What Is the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo?
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, often referred to as RodeoHouston, is one of the largest annual events in Texas and a major highlight on the global rodeo calendar. Combining competitive livestock shows, rodeo events, carnival attractions, and nightly concerts, it’s an event that attracts thousands of visitors each day.
NRG Park in Houston, Texas, serves as the centerpiece for this 21-day celebration, which runs from March 2 through March 22, 2026. While the rodeo competitions and livestock exhibits are central to the event, the concerts often draw as much attention, featuring top performers from a variety of musical genres.
RodeoHouston has a long-standing tradition of blending Western culture with mainstream entertainment, making it a unique experience for both local residents and visitors from across the country.
Houston Rodeo 2026 Dates and Schedule
The 2026 Houston Rodeo spans 21 days, offering nightly entertainment at NRG Stadium after the day’s rodeo competitions. Concerts typically kick off in the evening, providing fans with a seamless experience that combines traditional rodeo action with live music.
A special highlight for 2026 is the full-length closing concert on March 22, headlined by Cody Johnson, which promises to cap off the event with one of the biggest musical performances of the season. Other themed nights during the rodeo celebrate everything from volunteer appreciation to first responders, often paired with music that fits the day’s focus.
With events spanning weekdays and weekends, fans have multiple opportunities to catch their favorite artists while enjoying the full rodeo experience.
Confirmed Performers: Cody Johnson and Russell Dickerson
While the full lineup will be revealed officially on January 8, 2026, two major performers have already been announced:
Cody Johnson — Closing Concert Star
Multi-platinum country artist Cody Johnson is set to headline the closing concert on March 22, 2026. Johnson, a longtime favorite at RodeoHouston, has built a reputation for energetic live shows and a deep connection with his audience. Hits like “Dirt Cheap” and “Welcome to the Show” are expected to feature prominently in his setlist.
Russell Dickerson — March 5 Performance
Country star Russell Dickerson was revealed as a performer via a pop-up concert in New York City’s Times Square, confirming his March 5, 2026, show at NRG Stadium. Known for his infectious hits such as “Yours” and “Blue Tacoma”, Dickerson’s energetic style promises an unforgettable evening for concertgoers.
These early announcements set the stage for excitement ahead of the full lineup reveal, highlighting the caliber of talent fans can expect.
Houston Rodeo 2026 Genre Calendar
To help fans plan their visits, RodeoHouston has released a genre calendar, detailing the type of music featured each night. This allows concertgoers to target specific performances and ensures a diverse musical experience.
- Country Music Nights: The backbone of the rodeo’s entertainment, featuring traditional and modern country acts.
- Latin Music Night: Celebrating regional sounds and international influences.
- R&B / Black Heritage Day: Highlighting rhythm and blues performers in honor of Black Heritage Day.
- Christian Music Night: Showcasing faith-based performers and inspirational songs.
- Rock and Pop Nights: Broadening the appeal beyond traditional country with popular artists.
- Regional Mexican / Go Tejano Day: Focusing on Tejano and regional Mexican music traditions.
Themed concert nights add cultural significance to the performances, complementing special event days like Armed Forces Appreciation and Volunteer Appreciation Day.
Why Fans Are Excited About the 2026 Lineup
The combination of big-name headliners and diverse genre offerings ensures there’s something for everyone. Cody Johnson’s presence at the closing concert guarantees a must-see country finale, while Russell Dickerson’s early announcement builds anticipation for his high-energy performance.
The inclusion of multiple genres and themed nights reflects RodeoHouston’s commitment to inclusivity, making the event appealing to both longtime fans of the rodeo and music enthusiasts looking for live performances.
Additionally, the pop-up announcement strategy, such as the Times Square event, has generated national buzz, highlighting RodeoHouston as a cultural phenomenon beyond Texas.
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Tickets: Presales and Public Sale
Ticket sales for the 2026 Houston Rodeo are expected to open shortly after the full lineup announcement, around January 15, 2026.
- Official Presales: Fans can access early ticket purchases through official channels such as the RodeoHouston website.
- Authorized Partners: Tickets will also be available through authorized ticketing platforms to ensure secure purchases.
- Popular Dates: Weekend shows and high-profile performers are expected to sell out quickly, making early purchase highly recommended.
Fans are encouraged to sign up for alerts and follow official social media channels to stay informed about ticket availability.
What to Expect at NRG Stadium Concerts
Concerts at NRG Stadium transform the venue into a full-scale arena performance environment:
- State-of-the-Art Production: Large-scale lighting, sound, and stage design enhance every performance.
- Multiple Opening Acts: Many nights feature supporting performers before the headliner.
- Genre Diversity: Fans can experience country, Latin, pop, rock, R&B, and Christian music across different nights.
- Themed Cultural Experiences: Some concert nights tie into heritage celebrations or special event days.
- Family-Friendly Environment: While concerts can draw large crowds, the rodeo also offers carnival attractions, food vendors, and interactive experiences.
Whether attending for the music, the rodeo, or both, NRG Stadium delivers an immersive Texas entertainment experience.
Tips for Attending RodeoHouston 2026
To maximize your experience:
- Arrive Early: Enjoy both rodeo competitions and early performances.
- Check Entry Policies: NRG Stadium enforces clear bag and cashless policies.
- Plan Parking or Rideshare: Downtown Houston can get congested on event nights.
- Dress Comfortably: Prepare for outdoor conditions during daytime rodeo events and evening concerts.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water if allowed, and be ready for a long day of entertainment.
Following these tips ensures a smooth, enjoyable visit.
Why the Houston Rodeo Continues to Draw Fans
RodeoHouston isn’t just a rodeo or a concert series—it’s a cultural tradition that blends Western heritage with modern entertainment. Its ability to attract top-tier performers across multiple genres while maintaining its roots in rodeo and agriculture sets it apart from other large events.
From country legends to Latin stars, the 2026 lineup promises something for everyone, solidifying the rodeo’s reputation as a must-attend event for music fans and families alike.
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FAQs
When is the Houston Rodeo 2026?
March 2 – March 22, 2026 at NRG Park, Houston, Texas.
Who are the confirmed performers?
So far, Cody Johnson (closing concert) and Russell Dickerson (March 5) have been announced.
When will the full lineup be revealed?
January 8, 2026, at around 7 p.m. Central Time.
What genres will be featured?
Country, Latin, R&B, Christian, rock, pop, and regional Mexican music, aligned with themed days.
How can tickets be purchased?
Tickets will be available via the RodeoHouston website and authorized partners, with early access options likely for fan clubs and presales.
Are the concerts family-friendly?
Yes. NRG Stadium provides a safe, family-oriented environment with attractions, food, and entertainment in addition to the music.
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I’m Atul Kumar, founder of Cine Storytellers and an entertainment creator with 5+ years of experience. I cover films, celebrities, music, and OTT content with a focus on accurate, ethical, and engaging storytelling. My goal is to bring readers trustworthy entertainment news that informs, inspires, and goes beyond gossip.
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