Dosi Dues and Don’ts: How to Go to a Rodeo

Have you ever been to a place where it smells like you’re at a carnival and Tractor Supply at once? Where there’s fresh air among a crowd? Rodeos are some of the most entertaining experiences in the world. It’s all about experiencing the country life and its morals and values. Every rodeo starts with the national anthem and a prayer, sportsmanship is a consistent theme. As a crowd member, you have the freedom to hoot and holler as you please. There are many ways to conduct yourself at a rodeo, so I’m going to let you in on some helpful hints, from someone who’s been there, to either start your rodeo experience or help improve it. 

When it comes to clothing, don’t feel pressured to look a certain way, but rodeos are much

more fun when you dress for the occasion. In the summer, you can never go wrong with an oversized or baggy shirt (they give Texas sized portions at the food truck), but if that is not your style, a tank top is also a great choice. I typically wear jeans to pair with my boots. The best style of jeans are bootcut, most people wear the jeans covering the shaft (long part) of the boot. A great accessory is a ball cap, or even a cowboy hat if you're feeling fancy. There are two reasons why hats are crucial: first, they keep the sun out of your eyes, and the arena lights at night. Second, they can help give hairstyles an extra touch. One of my favorite hairstyles is two low buns facing the back with some hair pieces out and a hat on– it’s manageable and really cute. Lastly, shoewear. You guessed it… BOOTS! If you don’t have a pair, I seriously recommend investing in some. Not only for rodeos, because when paired with the right outfit, boots will fit any occasion. They add a little bit of detail to your outfits and are very practical, comfortable, and useful. As for their role in rodeos, they are a crucial part of country culture.

When it comes to food, my advice for you is to get the beloved funnel cake. Make sure you do this near the beginning of the rodeo, because late nights coupled with grease and sugar almost always goes wrong. I love to have barbecue, and rodeos always have some of the best. Make sure to look at all the food trucks and what they have to offer. Most outdoor rodeos I’ve been to had about five to choose from. No matter which one you choose, I would always recommend getting at least a little bit of barbecue. With your food–barbecue or not–another staple at rodeos is lemonade. I have never been to a single rodeo without a lemonade stand selling cups as big as your head. The lemonade is always spot on, and often very sweet, it will gradually get more sour as the lemons sit. If you like tart lemonade I recommend asking for another piece of lemon to counteract the sugar. Lastly, for the adults, not all rodeos have coffee, and if they do it isn’t very good. If you need some caffeine to get you through the night, I would make sure to bring a thermos with your favorite blend just in case.

Lastly, for activities, obviously don’t be afraid to be loud; cheer for people! Wait until they’ve finished their event, and once they do, make some noise in support. I also recommend you brush up on some older country and rock songs like “Free Bird,” “All My Ex’s Live in Texas,” “Friends in Low Places,” etc… you know, the classics. At every rodeo they play clips of these songs, and it’s a blast to sing along with the crowd, people get really into it and it makes for a fun community experience. Sometimes it gets chilly once the sun goes down, so bring a blanket to keep warm just in case. Also, try not to get up during the events. Enjoy them because they go by quickly, and all rodeos have a half time or intermission, giving you a chance to get a souvenir, stretch your legs, or get some food (though try to do this at the beginning to avoid long lines) and most of them last from 15-30 minutes. 

I know that’s a lot to remember, but rodeos are absolutely amazing, especially when you go in knowing what to expect. But don’t forget, every rodeo is different so keep these tips in mind, but make sure to go and figure out your own unique style to rodeo.