2026 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Brings Texas Tradition, Family Fun, and World-Class Competition to the Alamo City
The 2026 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is saddling up to deliver three weeks of entertainment, education, and Texas tradition from February 12 through March 1, 2026. Hosted at the Frost Bank Center and Freeman Coliseum Fairgrounds, this iconic San Antonio event draws more than 1.5 million attendees annually and generates over $250 million in economic impact for the region.
From its rich history rooted in youth and agriculture to its modern-day celebration of rodeo, music, and community spirit, the San Antonio Rodeo has grown into one of the city’s most cherished traditions. Now backed by over 7,000 volunteers and more than $279 million in lifetime contributions to Texas youth, the Rodeo continues to prioritize education, scholarships, and support for future generations.
Rodeo Format & Competition Schedule
The rodeo arena will host 19 official PRCA and WPRA-sanctioned rodeo performances in a unique tournament-style format. Athletes compete across five initial brackets, with three rounds each, from February 12–25. Top scorers advance to two Semifinal rounds (February 26–27), with one last shot offered via the Wildcard Round on February 28 at noon. The climactic Finals event also takes place February 28, immediately followed by a concert from Shane Smith & The Saints.
Competitions include classic events like saddle bronc riding, team roping, barrel racing, bull riding, and the beloved mutton bustin’ for young riders. Notably, the 2026 Rodeo will award $1.865 million in new scholarships through competitive youth events like livestock shows, Ag Mechanics, and Western Art.
2026 Rodeo Headliner Lineup
As always, each rodeo performance ends with a major concert — and this year’s entertainment lineup is stacked:
- Feb. 13 – Russell Dickerson
- Feb. 14 – Ty Myers
- Feb. 15 – Midland
- Feb. 16 – Pat Green
- Feb. 17 – Brad Paisley
- Feb. 18 – Shenandoah
- Feb. 19 – Miranda Lambert
- Feb. 20 – Robert Earl Keen
- Feb. 21 – Gary Allan
- Feb. 22 – Banda Los Recoditos (Noche Del Vaquero)
- Feb. 23 – Dos Borrachos (Kevin Fowler & Roger Creager)
- Feb. 24 – Cody Jinks
- Feb. 25 – Braxton Keith
- Feb. 26 – Sheryl Crow (Semifinals)
- Feb. 27 – Ludacris (Semifinals)
- Feb. 28 – The Droptines (Wildcard Event matinee)
- Feb. 28 – Shane Smith & The Saints (Finals)
- Mar. 1 – Brandon Padier (Rodeo closeout performance)
The fan-favorite "Noche Del Vaquero" celebration on February 22 features Banda Los Recoditos and showcases South Texas' rich Mexican heritage, complete with Ballet Folklorico, charro traditions, and mariachi showcases.
This year's roster represents a wide spectrum of country legends, rising stars, and genre-crossing acts — from Ludacris and Sheryl Crow to Robert Earl Keen and Banda Los Recoditos — making the 2026 San Antonio Rodeo one of the most diverse and exciting yet.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Something for Everyone at the Fairgrounds
Beyond the arena, the fairgrounds will be bustling with attractions like the Expo Hall (175+ local and national vendors), the Animal Discovery Zone (petting zoos and pig races), and a full indoor carnival.
Fairground admission is $15 for adults and $5 for children and seniors, with free admission for military members. For repeat visitors, the $25 Season Grounds Pass is a money-saving must.
Fairgrounds hours:
- Sunday–Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Thrifty Thursdays & Ticket Deals
For budget-friendly rodeo-goers, "Thrifty Thursdays" on Feb. 12, 19, and 26 offer:
- $3 fairground admission
- $3 carnival rides
- $5 select food items
- Free admission for college students with ID
Additional 2026 ticket bundles include:
- What-A-Night: 2 tickets + $10 Whataburger gift card
- H-E-B Promo: 4 tickets + $25 H-E-B gift card
- Matinee Madness: 4 tickets + Rudy’s BBQ coupons
Fans can also show their rodeo ticket for $2 off admission to the Tower of the Americas observation deck.
A Look Back at Rodeo History
This legendary event traces its roots to the 1940s, when Joe Freeman dreamed of creating a permanent home for a youth-focused livestock exposition. His vision became reality in 1948 with the construction of the Joe & Harry Freeman Coliseum — still one of the key venues today. From these humble beginnings, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has blossomed into a nationally respected institution.
Upcoming Lead-In Events
Before the main rodeo even begins, locals can enjoy a slate of kickoff festivities:
- Western Heritage Weekend (Feb. 6–7): Featuring the iconic downtown Cattle Drive and Parade
- Bar-B-Que Cook-Off (Feb. 6–7): A favorite for food lovers and families
- Cowboy Breakfast (Feb. 7): A free, open-to-the-public breakfast celebrating rodeo season
Giving Back to Texas Youth
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is about more than entertainment — it’s about education. In 2026 alone, the organization will support over 22,000 Texas students and award millions in scholarships and grants, reinforcing its mission of developing the next generation of agricultural leaders.
For tickets, daily event updates, and full concert listings, visit the official rodeo website at sarodeo.com.
Whether you're drawn by the thrill of bull riding, the joy of funnel cake and Ferris wheels, or the impact of youth education and community support, the 2026 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is an experience that truly captures the spirit of Texas.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.