HOUSTON -- The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo has officially started, KPRC Local 2 reported Tuesday.

An international crowd flocked through the gates when they opened at 9 a.m.

A family of cattle breeders from Honduras makes the rodeo an annual trip.

"We come here every year to see what's new," Jose Ramirez said. "If there's cattle we like and we can buy, we'll take it."

There are things for everyone of every age spread over 300 acres at Reliant Park.

The mechanical bull ride is always a popular attraction.

"It can be hard to be just like a real bull ride, or we can give a 2-year-old a ride," operator Rex Lewis said. "Anyone can ride him."

The first rodeo concert features George Strait. He will take the stage inside Reliant Stadium at 6:45 p.m.

Tuesday's schedule for major attractions:

Capital One Agventure: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Carnival: 4 p.m. to midnight
Kiddie Carnival: 11 a.m. to midnight
Mechanical Bull: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Petting Zoo: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Pig Races: 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.; 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 4:30, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.
Pony Rides: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information about the HLSR, including parking and ticket information, visit our Rodeo section.