They say everything’s bigger in Texas and when it comes to rodeo, they aren’t lyin’! Known as one of the largest and most exciting events in the Lone Star State, The Rio Grande Valley Rodeo and Livestock Show is back now till March 17th in Mercedes, Texas. The event is located at 1000 North Texas, Mercedes, TX 78570. Celebrating 85 years of legendary Rio Grande Valley fun, this year’s celebration is known as the “Diamond Anniversary.”
“Our mission is to provide a safe and educational environment that promotes family, community, and volunteerism. We strive to promote the youth of South Texas through leadership development, agricultural education, and competition with a goal of creating the leaders of tomorrow.”
– RGVLS Mission Statement
With humble beginnings in 1939, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show and Agricultural Exposition was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Mercedes Chamber of Commerce and community members who held a passion and reverence for the agricultural and ranching history and future of Texas. Since its inception, the event has expanded beyond expectations. With a permanent event center garnering hundreds of thousands of rodeo fans, millions of dollars provided to 4-H and FFA youth exhibitors, and now ranking as one of the top ten Livestock Shows and Rodeos in the state, it’s no doubt the Rio Grande Valley Rodeo and Livestock show lives up to the famed Texas saying!
The carnival rides are high-flying, the rodeo performances are heart-pumping, and concerts will keep you dancing the night away… so let’s dive in and see what fun the Rio Grande Valley has to offer.
Livestock and Agriculture: Texas Youth Carry on the Legacy!
The Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show provides Texas youth with the amazing opportunity to showcase their unique talents and animal husbandry skills as they showcase their lambs, swine, poultry, cattle, and more. With months and even years committed to raising their animals, 4H and FFA exhibitors continue to advocate for the advancement and encouragement of youth in agriculture, inspiring a strong future for both industries.
“This year’s theme “A Legacy of Youth and Agriculture” highlights our mission over the last 85 years to provide incomparable learning experiences for youth through agriculture. As a non-profit organization, we are the only of its kind dedicated to creating linkages between RGV youth, families, and agriculture.”
– Mike Risica (RGVLS President)
The Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show encompasses all facets of agriculture and livestock throughout its 10-day event, from horticulture contests to livestock showmanship, sales, and even a “Beef Skillathon,” this event runs the gamut of livestock and agricultural management.
Rodeo Pros Bring The Heat To The Arena!
Making way to the rodeo arena, PRCA performances have all the events you know and love. From bulls, broncs, and barrels to roping and steer wrestling, each evening performance will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Check out PRCA XTREME Bull Riding and many other events throughout the week. The excitement culminates in three PRCA rodeo performances on March 14th, 15th, and 16th. Each PRCA performance begins promptly at 7:00 pm.
Carnivals, Concerts, & Parades, Oh My!
If the livestock show and rodeo don’t keep you busy enough, check out the myriad of entertainment options the RGLVS has to offer. Glittering lights, gravity-defying rides, exciting games, fried goodies, and more can be found at the Reed-Mitchell Carnival. Open to the public all days of the RGVLS, the carnival will keep the kiddos busy and parents happy.
Live music every night? Free concerts included in your paid gate admission? Sign us up! Nothing makes a great time better than even greater tunes! A full roster of talented musicians is ready to entertain you at the RGVLS! From country to rock n’ roll, get those dancin’ boots ready!
On March 9th, community members will celebrate the 2024 RGVLS Parade! Hitting the pavement at 10 am, spectators will enjoy the sparkling floats, impressive marching bands, beautiful equine entries, event sponsors, and more.
Check out the official RGVLS Magazine and keep up with the fun!
Whether you’re in it for the livestock, the rodeo, the entertainment, or all three, you’re guaranteed to have a great time at the 2024 Rio Grande Valley Rodeo and Livestock Show!
Last Updated on 03/10/2024 by Taryn Cantrell
About the Author:
CLN Community & Event Sponsor
