The Houston Livestock Show & rodeo is set to return next week, with pre-festivities kicking off this weekend in Houston. Among the events lined up are the World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, rodeo Run, and Go Texan Day. The historical tradition of the Houston Trail Rides, where over 2,000 riders across 11 trails make their way to Houston on horseback and wagons, is also part of the pre-rodeo events.
The Trail Rides tradition began in 1952 when four riders traveled from Brenham to Houston on horseback to raise awareness for the Houston rodeo. The tradition has grown over the years, with riders coming from as far away as Louisiana to participate. The Trail Rides will culminate in Memorial Park on February 28, with prime viewing locations along Memorial Drive, Hardy & Nance Studios, and Brays Bayou Greenway Trail.
Houstonians will have the opportunity to see the Trail Riders as they make their way through different parts of the city, including Cypress, West Houston, Fairbanks, Greater Inwood, Acres Homes, and Spring Branch. The Salt Grass Trail Ride, one of the largest Trail Rides, will depart from Katy Park and eventually reach the Harris County Fairgrounds. The Downtown rodeo Parade on Saturday morning will feature riders, floats, and marching bands making their way through the streets in celebration.
