Since 1938, Rodeo Austin has been the place for a Real Texas Experience. From Austin’s largest carnival and funnel cakes to mutton bustin’ and amazing live music, there is something for everyone. Because the attractions and big-name acts seem to grow exponentially every year, we’ve compiled this rundown of everything you need to know about the rodeo before you go.
Put on your ten-gallon hat, and all the denim and turquoise you own—it’s time for the best time in Texas. Here are the highlights.
Kick Open The Chutes – Party On The Dirt!
Rodeo Austin’s Kick Open the Chutes, takes place March 10th at 6:30 p.m. and officially kicks off the 2023 Rodeo season! This party on the dirt features live music concerts by Josh Ward and William Beckmann! Your $25 ticket provides a sneak peek with a behind-the-scenes experience for true rodeo fans.
Rodeo Austin Music
There are nearly 100 live performances throughout the month of March at the Outdoor Stage, the 100X Dance Hall, and at the ProRodeo & Concerts.
2023 ProRodeo Performances include:
- March 11th: Aaron Watson
- March 12th: Ramon Ayala
- March 13th: Flo Rida
- March 14th: Randy Rogers Band
- March 15th: Carly Pearce
- March 16th: Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line
- March 17th: Russell Dickerson
- March 18th: Shane Smith & The Saints
- March 19th: La Zenda Nortena
- March 20th: Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
- March 21st: Ryan Bingham & The Texas Gentlemen
- March 22nd: Sugar Ray
- March 23rd: Flatland Cavalry
- March 24th: Lainey Wilson
- March 25th: Tracy Lawrence
On the Fairgrounds
On the Southside of the Fairgrounds, Rodeo Austin is excited to bring more entertainment that can be enjoyed by all! Watch the pig races, enjoy excitement and laughter at the comedy stunt show, or sit back and relax at the Coors Cactus Saloon.
Carnival and Attractions
This is Austin’s largest carnival—with over 80 rides, games, and other amusements on the Fairgrounds.
In addition to the carnival, the Fairgrounds offer a variety of things to do. From a Beer and Wine Garden, and rotating food trucks to a petting zoo, pony rides, Swifty Swine pig races, and more—there is a little something for everyone!
Stop by the H-E-B Texas Favorites tent for a kid-friendly snack that everyone will love, and show off your favorite poses in a Texas-themed photo booth!
Wild West Tent
The Wild West Tent will feature Tomás Garcilazo – The Charro, a world-renowned, traditional Mexican Charro whose rope artistry and horsemanship skills are among the best in the world. Also appearing in the tent every Saturday at 3 p.m. is Mutton Bustin’ Mania! You can sign your children up on-site.
The tent will also feature Tricked Out, an equestrian act that is so daring and fast-paced it is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat! The tricks will keep you in suspense while they bring the “Wild West” back to life.
Competitive Events
There are over 8,000 entries for this year’s competitive events, including the Junior Livestock Shows, Gold Stirrup Horse Show, and Ultimate Scramble Championship.
Avenue of Breeds
The Animal Science Center features the Avenue of Breeds, an educational exhibit showcasing a variety of animals found in Texas that originated from various places across the globe.
Visit the Hank The Cowdog exhibit to learn about ranching and Texas heritage through the eyes of a loveable dog, Hank!
100X Dance Hall
After the ProRodeo and main stage concert, head over to the 100X Dance Hall for even more live music as you dance the night away at Rodeo Austin’s exclusive after-hours honky-tonk. 100X Dance Hall opens at 5 p.m. on weekdays for dancing, drinks, and more! It opens at noon on Saturdays and Sundays, with live music all day!
The 100X Dance Hall also features Jack’s Front Porch, where you can enjoy an evening on the front porch under the stars.
Special Deals
You can get half-off ProRodeo & Concert tickets on March 20th. They are also doing a Carnival Wristband Spring Break Special from March 13th–16th, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. And on March 22nd, it’s $2 Tuesday, with $2 Fairgrounds admission and $2 carnival rides!
Active and retired military personnel, all first responders, and Seniors 60+ get $5 fairground admission on March 3rd-4th and 11th-25th. These tickets must be purchased at the gate, not available online.
After School Wristbands get you access to the carnival from 4 p.m.-close any one day through March 20th-23rd. Groups of 20+ are eligible for a group discount on ProRodeo & Concert tickets! Please call the Ticketing Department at 512-919-3033 for inquiries on group sales.
Get your tickets here and click here for the daily schedule and map!
