The Houston Downtown Rodeo Parade is one of the most anticipated events in the Bayou City each year.
The Rodeo Parade kicks off the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
This annual event held in downtown Houston, Texas.
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The Rodeo and the parade both have storied history.
While the rodeo began in 1932, the first parade was held in 1938.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of people line the streets to watch the parade.
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The parade features floats, marching bands, and other performers, and it is one of the largest rodeo parades in the United States.
This year’s parade will be held on Saturday, February 25th 2023.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Houston Downtown Rodeo Parade!
Houston Downtown Rodeo Parade FAQs
The Houston Downtown Rodeo Parade is a great opportunity to enjoy some Texas-style fun with family and friends.
Here is important information to make the most of your experience.
What are the dates of the Houston Rodeo 2023?
Wondering, what time is the Houston rodeo parade?
The parade will begin at 10:00 AM on Saturday, February 25th 2023.
It will last for approximately two hours and end at around noon.
What is the route for the Rodeo Parade in Houston?
The parade will start at Bagby and Walker Streets and travel down Walker.
It will turn onto Travis Street and then onto Bell Street before turning onto Louisiana Street.
From Louisiana Street, the parade will turn onto Lamar Street before ending at Bagby Street.
For a detailed parade route, click here.
Things to do at the Parade
The Houston Rodeo Parade celebrates the Western heritage of the Lone Star State.
It features everything from brilliantly decorated floats, high school marching bands, cowboys and cowgirls on horseback, trail riders, and more!
Here are some of the most popular parts of the parade.
See Howdy
Howdy is the most beloved, official mascot of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
The oversized balloon, depicting an Orange H wearing boots and cowboy hat, is a highlight of the parade.
He’s usually accompanied by a group of cowboys, cowgirls, and trail riders that wave to spectators as they ride in the parade.
Don’t miss Howdy!
Spot the Parade Grand Marshal
The parade’s grand marshal is chosen each year from a prestigious list of nominees.
You will be able to watch the grand marshal lead the parade with Howdy!
This year’s grand marshal is bullfighter, barrelman, and Rodeo clown Leon Coffee.
Listen to the Live Music and Marching Bands
Along the parade route, you can enjoy live music performances by some of Houston’s best musical groups.
Several of Houston’s High School Marching Bands also participate in the parade.
Feel the energy of the parade as their marching bands and drumline ensembles play!
Enjoy a Variety of Performers
The Houston Rodeo Parade features various performers, including dancers, musicians, and other entertainers.
You will be able to watch performers from around Texas, doing a variety of different acts.
From young riders to equestrian’s performing precision drills with their horses, the parade has something for everyone!
Marvel at the Floats
The Houston Rodeo Parade is known for its beautiful floats.
These ornate forms of transportation are designed to bring the nation’s western heritage and culture alive in spectacular style!
Each float is painstakingly crafted from scratch, with some even taking a year to complete.
Crowds love to see the themes and intricate decorations on the floats and cheer them on.
Don’t miss the chance to see these impressive works of art.
Cheer the Trail Riders
Perhaps one of the most beloved parts of the parade are the trail riders.
This group is made up of cowboys and cowgirls on horseback who ride in the parade, often dressed in their finest western wear.
The trail riders truly embody the Old West.
The trail riders ride to Houston from all over the Lone Star State as well as from Louisiana and other states to the Rodeo.
The trails are several miles long and take days.
They camp at Memorial Park, once they arrive in Houston.
Seeing the trail riders is an amazing experience.
You can spot trail riders of all ages, even kids riding their horses.
Cheer these riders as they show off their incredible equestrian skills!
Soak Up the Atmosphere
The Houston Downtown Rodeo Parade is a great way to experience the culture, heritage and spirit of Texas.
Be sure to soak up all the sights, sounds, and smells of this one-of-a-kind event!
It’s definitely an experience you won’t soon forget.
Other events happening on the day of the Parade
In addition to the Rodeo Parade, there will be other events happening throughout the day.
The Houston Rodeo Run will take place at 8:30 am and follows a similar route.
We suggest coming early to cheer the participants.
Also, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest Cookoff will be on its last day at NRG Park.
If you’re looking for something to do after the parade, why not head over and sample some of the best BBQ in Houston?
Best Places to watch the Rodeo Parade
For the best views, plan your viewing location in advance.
The parade route is about 2.5 miles long and runs through downtown Houston.
A good spot to watch from is on Louisiana Street, near the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
If you want to get there early to claim a spot, arrive no later than 9:00 a.m.
Another popular spot to watch from is on Lamar, at the Wells Fargo Plaza.
Where to park for Rodeo Parade
Parking can be tricky during the rodeo parade, so it is best to plan ahead.
The parade route is served by numerous parking lots and garages in the Theatre District and Downtown.
The parking fees can vary from as much as $30 to $12 depending on how close you park.
Tips for Watching the Parade
If you’re planning on watching the Houston Downtown Rodeo Parade, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Street closures will begin around 8:30 am. They will be open again after 2 pm.
Be sure to plan your route in advance and add extra time for travel.
Secondly, arrive early to get a good spot!
The parade starts promptly at 10:00 a.m., so make sure you give yourself enough time to settle in before it starts.
The parade route is usually packed with people, so you’ll want to make sure you have a good view.
Third, dress for the weather – it can get pretty hot in Houston at the end of February!
It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and hats to protect you from the sun.
And finally, be sure to bring some snacks and drinks to stay energized and hydrated during the parade.
The Houston Downtown Rodeo Parade is a fun annual event for the whole family.
If you’re planning on attending this year, come back and let us know if you enjoyed the show!
