Quick Read
- Tickets for the 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo went on sale in two waves on January 15, 2026.
- Performances run from March 2 to March 22, featuring artists like Kelly Clarkson, Chris Stapleton, Lizzo, and Luke Bryan.
- Ticket sales were split into a 10 a.m. wave (March 2-11 shows) and a 2 p.m. wave (March 12-21 shows), with online waiting rooms opening 30 minutes prior.
- Entry to purchase tickets is determined by a random selection process from the online waiting room, not first-come, first-served.
- Standard ticket prices start at $35, including a $5 convenience fee, with premium options reaching up to $429 for Chute Seats.
As the vibrant energy of spring approaches, Houston is buzzing with anticipation for one of its most cherished annual spectacles: the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. This iconic event, a deep-rooted tradition in the heart of Texas, is once again set to captivate audiences with its unique blend of equestrian prowess, agricultural exhibits, and world-class musical entertainment. For those eager to immerse themselves in this cultural extravaganza, the moment to secure tickets has arrived, with sales commencing in two distinct waves.
The 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is scheduled to run from March 2 to March 22, culminating in a grand finale performance by Cody Johnson. However, the festivities kick off even earlier, with the aromatic World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest slated to set the scene from February 26 through February 28. This year’s musical lineup promises an eclectic mix of genres, ensuring there’s something for every taste, from the soulful R&B of Lizzo to the country twang of Luke Bryan and the rock anthems of Creed.
Navigating the Ticket Rush: Your Guide to Online Sales
Securing tickets for an event of this magnitude requires a strategic approach, especially in an age where digital queues have replaced physical ones. According to reports from Click2Houston and Houston Public Media, tickets officially went on sale on a recent Thursday, structured into two separate purchase windows to manage demand and ensure a smoother process.
The first wave of tickets became available at 10 a.m. CT, catering to performances scheduled between March 2 and March 11. Following this, the second wave launched at 2 p.m. CT, covering shows from March 12 to March 21. For both waves, an online waiting room opened 30 minutes prior to the official sale time – at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., respectively. It’s crucial for prospective attendees to understand that entry into this waiting room is not a first-come, first-served scenario. Instead, patrons are randomly selected to enter the digital store and complete their purchase, a system designed to give everyone an equal chance. Each customer is permitted to purchase up to 10 tickets, ensuring that groups and families can attend together.
Among the highly anticipated acts for the first wave (March 2-11) are Riley Green, J Balvin, Rascal Flatts, Russell Dickerson, the incomparable Lizzo, Dwight Yoakam, Forrest Frank, Luke Bryan, Megan Moroney, and Creed. The second wave (March 12-21) boasts an equally impressive roster, featuring country superstar Chris Stapleton, Shaboozey, pop icon Kelly Clarkson, Pepe Aguilar, Cross Canadian Ragweed, The Red Clay Strays, Koe Wetzel, Lainey Wilson, Parker McCollum, and Tim McGraw. For those keen on attending the rodeo’s closing night, tickets for Cody Johnson’s March 22 performance were made available earlier, indicating the high demand for this grand finale.
Understanding Ticket Tiers and Event Logistics
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo offers a wide range of seating options, designed to accommodate various preferences and budgets. Standard ticket prices, as detailed by Fox26Houston and RodeoHouston officials, begin at $35, a figure that typically includes a $5 convenience fee. From there, prices escalate based on seating proximity and amenities.
Attendees can choose from several tiers:
- Upper Level: $35 or $44
- Loge Level: $53
- Club Level: $74 or $79
- Field Level: $69
- Action Seats: $180
- Chairman’s Club Party Deck, presented by AXS: $205
- Chute Seats, presented by Cheniere: $429
For those requiring accessible seating, a dedicated waiting room is available during the sale periods, underscoring the event’s commitment to inclusivity.
Once purchased, all tickets are delivered electronically via AXS Mobile ID. Fans are advised to allow up to 48 hours for delivery and to download the official RODEOHOUSTON app, powered by AXS. Logging in with the email used for purchase will grant access to their digital tickets. The official RodeoHouston website serves as the primary hub for all purchases and detailed event information.
Understanding the daily schedule is also key for planning your visit. On weekdays, rodeo performances commence at 6:45 p.m., with concerts typically starting around 9 p.m. NRG Stadium gates open at 6 p.m. On weekends, the schedule shifts earlier: rodeos begin at 2:45 p.m., concerts follow around 5 p.m., and stadium gates open at 2 p.m. These timings allow ample opportunity for visitors to explore the extensive grounds, enjoy the livestock show, and partake in the various attractions before settling in for the main events.
Beyond the Arena: The Enduring Allure of RodeoHouston
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is more than just a series of concerts and competitions; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven from tradition, community spirit, and pure Texan entertainment. Its ability to draw such a diverse array of musical talent, from country legends to pop sensations, alongside its core rodeo events and agricultural showcases, speaks volumes about its broad appeal. The careful orchestration of ticket sales, from the online waiting rooms to the tiered pricing and digital delivery, reflects a modern approach to managing an event steeped in history.
This year’s emphasis on a meticulously structured online ticket sale, featuring random selection rather than a chaotic free-for-all, highlights an evolution in event management. It’s a pragmatic response to overwhelming demand, aiming to democratize access while acknowledging the intense competition for a chance to witness world-class talent and embrace a cherished cultural institution.