C'mon in! Credit: Doogie Roux

Big crowds converged at the NRG Arena Thursday night to attend the start of the 2026 RodeoHouston Bar-D-Que Conyesy.  More than 250 teams are competing. Most team tents are invitation-only, but visitors can enjoy several public venues, including The Garden Stage, presented by Miller Lite, Rockin’ Bar-B-Que Saloon and the Chuckwagon. The Garden Stage features some of the best up-and-coming and established artists in Texas country. The Rockin’ Bar-B-Que Saloon also features live music plus DJ sets and has an outside patio for visitors to enjoy. Inside the saloon is the Chuckwagon, where visitors can pick up their complimentary BBQ plate. Also, the carnival is open for wild rides and fun games.  (Photos by Doogie Roux.)

Houston Press contributor Doogie Roux is a proud Cajun-Texan and a fan of anything on wheels or with a motor. He’s a big part of the Houston cycling family, as well as a connoisseur of fine food joints...