The temperatures plummeted predictably for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s Barbecue Cook Off to launch the 90th Anniversary of the Rodeo, and everything feels right with the world in Houston. Rodeo is back, fried food is fabulous, kids riding sheep’s backs are adorable and normalcy this year has felt especially good. Like a well-worn hat, scuffed boots and faded jeans.
It may take a generation or more to erase the uniquely Houston memory of the Rodeo closing in the middle of March 2020 when Covid arrived in the Bayou City, and people may tell their grandchildren about how George Strait came back to close the show that year that the Rodeo returned from lockups and cancellations.
Sunday morning guests can attend Cowboy Church at NRG Arena at 8 and 10 and fall to their knees in thanks that the Rodeo is back. The sun will set with George Strait returning for his 31st concert appearance, and everything feels right in the world as the Cowboy Rides Away.
“I think a lot of what he believes in, in terms of agriculture, farming and ranching, as a farmer and rancher, I think he really believes in what we do, and it has been a great partnership. Can you believe that – we’ve had 90 years and he’s been here 31 times,” exclaims HLSR President and CEO Chris Boleman.
photo: Getty Images