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Our Texas Roots Run Deep

We believe it takes grit to grow the next generation. We are Rodeo Austin, a not-for-profit that provides real experiences and gritty fun to raise millions for Texas kids.

Rodeo Austin history photo

Over 80 Years

Since 1938, Rodeo Austin has expanded from a small stock show featuring just 16 animals to one of Austin’s premier events. Rodeo Austin is a year-round nonprofit funded by a month-long real western experience held every March. Rodeo-goers get to do things they can do nowhere else including a ProRodeo, one-of-a-kind concerts, carnival and a livestock show. All while raising millions for Texas kids.

Young man in rodeo arena saluting with his cowboy hat on his horse

Not For Profit

As a nonprofit, we are proud to support educational programs in Texas while preserving our state’s western heritage. With the help of our volunteers and donors, Rodeo Austin’s scholarship program has donated millions of dollars to Texas students and we continue to cultivate agricultural education in our community. Our mission is to grow the next generation while providing gritty fun and entertainment.

Rodeo History - Boy and Girl Eating Cotton Candy

More than a Rodeo

When people hear “Rodeo Austin”, they automatically think of the 15-day Fair & Rodeo that takes over the Travis County Expo Center every March. The story of Rodeo Austin begins 83 years ago in a time where there were more than 2,600 farms in Travis County. Austin’s Baby Beef Show was created to help develop this part of the economy. The small event featured 16 animals and was held on the temporary State Capitol Grounds at Eleventh Street and Congress Avenue.

Throughout its history, the livestock show has expanded from a tiny Travis County show to one that welcomes 4-H and FFA youth from across the state. And its rodeo, which had humble 1950s beginnings in the cramped City Coliseum, is now officially sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.

Our History

In the early 1980s, Rodeo Austin officially became a nonprofit charity. Since 1981, Rodeo Austin’s Scholarship Program has awarded over $8 million to more than 2,000 students. Rodeo Austin continues to give back to students through its Youth Auction, Youth Art Show & Auction, Agricultural Mechanics Show and more. Today, most Travis County citizens live in urban areas and have little daily contact with farming and ranching. Rodeo Austin hosts over 7,000 schoolchildren annually who tour the Fairgrounds to learn where their milk comes from, witness pig races, learn about ranching practices, and more.

Smiling family at Rodeo Austin Cowboy Breakfast in downtown Austin

Our Future

Over the years, Rodeo Austin has expanded its programs and attractions and increased its contributions to youth each year. The annual Fair & Rodeo is the organization’s largest fundraiser but also relies on year-round events and over 1,000 volunteers to continue to grow the next generation. Come be a part of real Texas grit … live and hands-on!

Rodeo Austin history of livestock

Hall of Fame

The Rodeo Austin Hall of Fame is the most prestigious honor that can be bestowed upon an individual. These individuals stand out as first-class leaders whose contributions to the organization are extraordinary.

Inductions to the Hall of Fame are held at the highest regard and convey a significant honor to the inductees.

Rodeo Austin arena with people standing

Director Emeritus

The Director Emeritus class honors retired directors and members who have shown exemplary service to the organization. This lifetime appointment is reserved for those whose dedication to the mission goes above and beyond.

Get Involved

Help Rodeo Austin spur on education & western traditions in Texas by donating, volunteering or sponsoring

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YOUTH & AG PROGRAMS

Support growing the next generation through our agricultural education & fun hands-on experiences

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