Where to Go to See a Rodeo in Texas Hill Country
For those seeking an authentic taste of Texan culture and adrenaline-pumping excitement, the rodeos in Texas Hill Country are a must-visit. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Wild West, witness awe-inspiring cowboy skills and enjoy the friendly company of fellow rodeo enthusiasts. Within a short drive of Hotel Giles, you can check out annual rodeo competitions as well as destinations where rodeos are part of the seasonal entertainment. See for yourself why these thrilling and action-packed rodeos stand out as a true Texas experience.
Kerrville Open Pro Rodeo
Run annually by the Lester Meier Rodeo Company, the Kerrville Open Pro Rodeo showcases the heart and grit of this rugged sport. Held at the Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center every July, the Kerrville Open Pro Rodeo offers a wide range of competitions, showcasing the talents of skilled cowboys and cowgirls from all over the region. It features traditional rodeo events such as bull riding, saddle bronc riding, bareback bronc riding, ladies barrel racing, calf roping, team roping, and mini bull and mini bareback riding. These events highlight the athleticism, precision and courage of the participants as they compete for top honors and cash prizes.
The Kerrville Open Pro Rodeo is known for its high-energy performances and enthusiastic crowd. Spectators can expect to witness heart-stopping moments as riders take on massive bucking bulls, gracefully ride broncs and swiftly maneuver their horses around barrels. The skill, strength and determination of the riders are put to the test, creating an electrifying atmosphere that keeps everyone on the edge of their seats.
Crider's Rodeo and Dancehall
At Crider's Rodeo and Dancehall in Hunt, Texas, you can catch exhilarating rodeo action every Saturday night from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. For nearly 100 years, this family-owned establishment has entertained locals and visitors alike with the heart-pounding excitement of bull riding, barrel racing and roping events. The very first rodeo at Crider's was held in 1925 as a fundraiser for a local school. It quickly grew from a yearly event to a weekly gathering of folks interested in sharing this unique blend of authentic cowboy culture and good old-fashioned entertainment.
Every Saturday all summer long, the rodeo starts promptly at 8 p.m. After the rodeo action, guests can enjoy live country music on the open-air dance floor that overlooks the Guadalupe River. If you stop through on a Friday night, you can dine on a delicious fried catfish platter with all the fixings, grab a cold beer and listen to live acoustic music while you eat. The real charm of Crider's lies in the unpretentious mingling of people in a friendly, down-home atmosphere that keeps people coming back time and time again.
Tejas Rodeo Company
The Tejas Rodeo Company in Bulverde, Texas, not only offers live pro rodeo nine months out of the year, but it's also home to a first-class steakhouse and has a pavilion and stage for live music. The owners are committed to keeping their passion for Western heritage alive and kicking and sharing that passion with thousands of guests. Rodeos are held every Saturday night from March to November, showcasing professional riders and ropers competing for top honors. From the bleachers, spectators will see bull riding, team roping, tie-down roping, mutton bustin', calf scramble, barrel racing and more. Following the rodeo, the band hits the stage to get the crowd out on the dance floor until 1 a.m.
The Tejas Steakhouse and Saloon is gaining a reputation all its own. The restaurant is open Thursday through Sunday, and reservations are recommended. Have dinner before the main rodeo event and enjoy a delectable feast of grilled-to-perfection steaks, fried chicken, catfish and other Hill Country favorites, all accompanied by a variety of mouthwatering sides. The rustic charm of the steakhouse, coupled with its warm and welcoming ambiance, is a great start to a night of rodeo, music and dancing.
“Anyone who has ever experienced the thrill of rodeo life wishes it could go on forever.” —Ralph Clark
