The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has unveiled its 2026 concert lineup, and the music is tilting decisively back to its country roots. Spanning 21 star-powered performances between March 2 and 22, the schedule leans heavily into cowboy boots and Southern twang, featuring Tim McGraw, Lainey Wilson, Rascal Flatts, and other country chart-toppers.
While fans of the genre have plenty to cheer about, some Houstonians are raising eyebrows at just how dominant country music is this year. With 15 of the 21 acts falling into the country category, this marks the most country-centric lineup the Rodeo has fielded in a decade. That’s a notable shift given the event’s growing efforts in recent years to reflect the city’s multicultural pulse.
Still, organizers appear to have added just enough variety to keep the broader base engaged. Pop powerhouse Kelly Clarkson, reunited rockers Creed, Latin icon Pepe Aguilar, and genre-blending superstar Lizzo all bring stylistic balance to the stage. Lizzo’s long-awaited Rodeo debut, delayed by the pandemic in 2020, is set for Black Heritage Day and already generating buzz.
In past years, high-profile pop and hip-hop acts like Cardi B, the Jonas Brothers, and Marshmello have pulled in record crowds, signaling a growing appetite for cross-genre inclusion. That said, this year’s booking suggests a recalibration, possibly in response to core fans or ticket trends.
Tickets for the 2026 concerts go on sale beginning January 15, released in waves by date. With big names from across the musical spectrum and plenty of debate to go around, this year’s Rodeo season is already off to a lively start.