From March 11 through 25, 2017 locals are joined by western athletes and guests from far and wide to enjoy the competitions and festivities, which take place during the annual Rodeo Austin. The slogan of the popular Texas event is “where weird meets western” and features a professional rodeo, the crowning of the royal court, a scholarship award ceremony, livestock show, horse show, a clay-shooting competition, live concerts and a traditional down-home barbecue.
Rodeo Austin History
The idea to preserve traditional western heritage began in 1938. The original Texas event featured a stock show and gradually expanded over the years to include all of the events presented today. Rodeo Austin is also the first to sponsor a team of professional rodeo athletes who travel around the country competing and representing the local Austin brand. The organization also works throughout the year to raise money for the Austin Scholarship Program. Since established in 1981, the program has provided $7.5 million in scholarships for local students desiring to attend college.
The Rodeo
During the Rodeo Austin, cowboys and cowgirls enter the arena to bring all the thrills and chills of competition to life. The competitions entertain audiences of all ages with a wide range of activities ranging from roping and bull riding displayed by professional athletes to the Mutton Bustin’ event, which features up and coming western star hopefuls. Tanner Aus, Mason Clements and Zach Brown are some of the favorites participating in the competitions.
Live Concerts
For more than a century, the event brought live musical entertainment to guests during the two-week festivities. The music genres span from Country Western to punk rock and soul. There are celebrity concerts for all to enjoy. The lineup for 2017 includes:
• Dwight Yoakum
• Charlie Pride
• Elle King
• Cole Swindell
• Fitz and the Tantrums
• Kenny Rogers
• Neal McCoy
• Bobby Bones and the Raging Idiots
• Patti LaBelle
BBQ Austin
The festival competitions include the BBQ, which pits individuals and teams against one another in the Champions and Open divisions. Participants come from all across the state in hopes of winning the prizes and title of State of Texas BBQ Grand Champion.
Media Coverage
Don’t miss a day of competitions, fun and excitement by tuning into the Cowboy Lifestyle Network for regular updates. The Ak-Chin Indian Community, Earnhardt Auto Centers and the Papa John’s Pizza Road Team will also be in attendance to provide coverage of all the events.
