HOUSTON – With spring break underway, many families are heading to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for carnival rides, food and entertainment.
But before you head out to NRG Park, it may help to know how quickly the cost of a day at the rodeo can add up.
When you factor in admission, rides, food and parking, a typical day at the rodeo could cost around $300 for a family of four.
However, rodeo officials say there are several ways families can cut those costs.
Rodeo admission prices
Grounds admission is required to enter the rodeo grounds outside NRG Stadium.
Adult tickets cost about $25, while tickets for children ages 3 through 12 cost $10.
Depending on the ages of the children, a family of four could spend between $70 and $100 just to get inside the grounds.
Parking and transportation
Parking at the rodeo typically costs about $25 per vehicle.
Rodeo officials recommend taking METRO Rail instead to save money and avoid traffic.
“The Metro is a great way to get here, but it’s only $1.25, so you’re saving a lot, especially if you have quite a few family members,” said Danielle Grossman with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Riders can also consider carpooling or using park-and-ride options to cut transportation costs.
Carnival rides can add up quickly
Once inside the rodeo, many families head straight to the carnival.
Individual carnival tickets cost about $1.25 each.
Most rides require three to eight tickets, which means a single ride can cost between $4 and $10.
For families with multiple children riding several rides, the cost can climb quickly.
A family of four could easily spend around $100 on carnival rides alone.
Food prices at the rodeo
Food is another major expense.
Classic rodeo favorites like jumbo corn dogs cost about $12, while drinks such as lemonade can cost around $9.
For a family of four, a simple meal could cost close to $90.
Rodeo officials recommend sharing food items to help lower the cost.
“Kids often like to split things, so maybe buy one item and then they can split it, and you’re not spending as much overall,” Grossman said.
Community Day offers major savings
Families looking to save money can take advantage of Community Day, presented by TC Energy.
On Community Day:
• Admission is free for seniors and children under the age of 12.
• Carnival rides and games are buy one, get one free
• Discounted food and snacks are available
Rodeo officials say families could save more than $100 by visiting on Community Day instead of a regular day.
“The best way to save is to come on Community Day presented by TC Energy this Wednesday,” Grossman said. “Free admissions to the entire community before noon. And there’s tons of discounts on food at the Junction as well as rides and games.”
Free attractions at the rodeo
Families can also take advantage of several free activities once inside the rodeo grounds.
At AgVenture inside NRG Center, visitors can:
• Pet farm animals
• See livestock exhibits
• Learn about agriculture and farming
These exhibits provide free entertainment for families looking to stretch their rodeo budget.
Setting a rodeo budget
Some longtime rodeo visitors say setting a spending limit is the best way to avoid overspending.
“I got seven grandkids, $50 per grandkid, that’s my budget, and I’m cut off right at $50,” said Ron Scurry, who visits the rodeo each year with his grandchildren.
With a little planning, families can still enjoy the rodeo experience without breaking the bank.