In the heart of Texas, where tradition runs deep and community spirit thrives, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo stands as a testament to grit, generosity, and the enduring power of heritage.

What began as a dream in the 1940’s has evolved into one of the largest and most prestigious events in the state, drawing over 1.5 million visitors annually and impacting tens of thousands of young Texans through education and agriculture.

The Rodeo’s roots trace back to a time when San Antonio was an emerging cattle town.  Early agricultural fairs struggled with inadequate facilities, prompting visionary Joe Freeman to rally support for a dedicated exposition space.  His passion for youth and livestock led to the construction of the Joe and Harry Freeman Coliseum in 1948-a venue that would become the beating heart of the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo.

The first official stock show was held in 1949, and from that moment, the event began to grow-not just in size, but in purpose.  Today, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit volunteer organization with a mission to promote agriculture and education while developing the youth of Texas.  With over 7,000 volunteers and just 35 full-time staff members, the rodeo has committed more than $279 million to scholarships, grants and youth programs since its inception.

But the rodeo is far more than a February experience.  It’s a year-round operation, with events like the Let’s Rodeo Ball, the Bar-B-Que Cook-Off & Festival, and the Western Heritage Parade & Cattle Drive keeping the spirit alive throughout the seasons. Fundraisers such as the Champion Wine Auction & Dinner and Boots ‘N Shoots clay competition help fuel the scholarship fund, while the Cowgirls Live Forever Luncheon honors the women who shaped the West.

Now, under the leadership of Cody Davenport, the Rodeo is preparing for its next chapter-a near $200 million redevelopment plan that aims to transform the grounds into a year-round destination.  As Davenport shared in The Kendall Gentleman, “The arena is the window to our lifestyle.  Everything we put in that arena has to reflect our values-agriculture, family, faith, service.” His vision is bold: expanding the Rodeo’s educational and cultural impact beyond February, creating a space that serves the community twelve months a year.  “We change lives in the month of February,” he said. “Now we’re going to do it over 12 months.” With the new facilities designed to host events, offer programs, and welcome guests year-round, the Rodeo is poised to become a permanent fixture in the lives of the community and all Texans.

As we look ahead, the excitement is already building for the 2026 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo.  Mark your calendar: the event will run from Feb. 12 to Mar. 1, 2026.  Expect thrilling rodeo competitions, top-tier musical acts, and the same unwavering commitment to youth, agriculture, and community that has defined the rodeo for nearly eight decades.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or first-time visitor, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo offer more than entertainment-it offers a legacy.  It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, where volunteers become heroes, and where the future of Texas is shaped by one scholarship, one animal, and one student at a time.

For more information, tickets and updates, visit sarodeo.com.

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Cover photo courtesy San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo

This post is a sponsored collaboration with San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo