Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo returning in May 2021

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will return May 4-23 after its cancellation due to the coronavirus pandemic in March, organizers announced Dec. 8.

The new dates for the event, which traditionally takes place in March, will include concerts, competitions, carnival events and entertainment, a press release from Rodeo Houston stated.

Other prerodeo events such as the downtown parade, Rodeo Run, trail rides and barbecue cook-off will also be delayed and begin shortly before the official rodeo kickoff in May.

“The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is truly a community event that Rodeo fans look forward to each and every year,” Rodeo Houston President and CEO Chris Boleman said in the release. “With the evolving health situation, we have made the decision to move the 2021 Rodeo from March to May, with the exception of our Junior Livestock and Horse Show competitions, to be held as planned in March.”

Organizers announced details of the junior events Nov. 5.

All events are contingent on the status of the coronavirus outbreak at the time and can be delayed again, the release stated.

More details, including health and safety guidelines, are expected in March.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said the decision to host the event, which takes place at NRG Stadium, was made in consultation with city officials and Houston Emergency Medical Director Dr. David Persse.

“While no one can predict the future of the coronavirus pandemic, I am optimistic that the multiple vaccines that are being developed and manufactured in the United States will improve our chances of returning to normal activities by the middle of next year," Turner said.

The rodeo was the first major event to be canceled due to the coronavirus in Houston after a case was reported during the barbecue cook-off.