- This page was last modified on 14 June 2025, at 12:42. Suggest an edit.
San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo facts for kids
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is a huge and exciting event in San Antonio, Texas, USA. Each year, over two million people visit this amazing show. It is one of the best rodeos in the country, recognized by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). For 14 years in a row, it was named the top indoor rodeo! The event brings together the world's best rodeo stars and animals. Besides the rodeo, you can enjoy great shows, fun learning activities, a carnival, shopping, and impressive horse and livestock shows.
Contents
History of the San Antonio Rodeo
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo started a long time ago. The organization was formed in 1949. The very first rodeo event happened in 1950. Since then, this exciting annual event takes place every February. It lasts for about three weeks.
The rodeo first began at the Joe & Harry Freeman Coliseum. But in 2003, the main rodeo events moved. They now happen at the AT&T Center. The old Freeman Coliseum is still used. It's a great place for shops to sell western clothes and other cool items. The San Antonio Spurs basketball team, who also use the AT&T Center, go on a special "Rodeo Road Trip" during these three weeks.
Western Heritage Parade & Cattle Drive
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo kicks off with a special event. It's called the Western Heritage Parade & Cattle Drive. This parade helps everyone celebrate Texas history. The parade route is a mile long. It goes right through downtown San Antonio. You can see groups like the Fort Hood 1st Cavalry Division. There's also the Fort Sam Houston Caisson. And of course, a big herd of Texas Longhorn cattle!
South Texas Trail Riders
Before the rodeo even starts, something cool happens. The South Texas Trail Riders go on a long journey. They travel 140 miles on horses, mules, and wagons. This trip sets the mood for the rodeo. Many riders love being outdoors. They enjoy living the old way for a while. One rider said it's about "heritage, culture, tradition, and family."
Rodeo Announcer Hadley Barrett
For 28 years, Hadley Barrett was the voice of the San Antonio Rodeo. He was known for his special voice. He also told funny jokes and shared rodeo wisdom. Hadley grew up on a ranch in Nebraska. He was a bull-rider on weekends. He also played music with his brothers. Hadley announced many other famous rodeos too. He passed away in 2017, shortly after his last San Antonio Rodeo.
Recent Changes to the Rodeo
In 2021, some parts of the event changed. The carnival and charreada (a Mexican rodeo) took a break. This was because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Strict rules were put in place. People had to wear masks and keep a safe distance from each other.
Supporting Youth and Education
The San Antonio Livestock Exposition, Inc. is the group behind the rodeo. Their main goal is to help young people in Texas. They focus on agriculture and education. They work with 4-H and FFA high school students. This helps students learn about farming and livestock.
In 1984, they started a scholarship program. They gave 15 scholarships to students. These scholarships helped them go to Texas colleges. Since then, they have given over $186 million to Texas youth! This money helps with scholarships, grants, and special programs. It also supports junior livestock auctions and youth art auctions.
It takes a lot of people to make this event happen. More than 6,000 volunteers help out! They make sure everything runs smoothly.
Rodeo Awards and Recognition
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has won many awards. It has been recognized as one of the best rodeos in the country.
- 2005 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2006 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2007 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2008 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2008 ProRodeo Hall of Fame
- 2009 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2010 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2011 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2012 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2013 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2014 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2015 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2016 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2017 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year
- 2018 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year