From its humble beginnings in 1932 as a cattle showcase, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Feb. 27-March 18, has evolved into a 20-day bonanza filled with the usual rodeo offerings like bull riding and steer roping, but with the addition of amusement park rides, deep-fried treats, shopping, and big-name concerts—this year, two-time Grammy winner Garth Brooks performs on opening and closing nights.
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Rodeo organizers hope to top last year’s record-breaking attendance of more than 2.6 million. The event ropes in big-city folk with a spirited parade featuring marching bands and floats through downtown Houston on Feb. 24. rodeohouston.com