Bun B Birthday Bonanza: Houston Livestock show and Black Rodeo
Attending the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo on March 7, 2025, for Black Heritage Day offers a profound opportunity to delve into the rich history and contributions of Black cowboys to Western culture. It also gave me a chance to see for myself how my country cousins truly exist in Houston. I was told that I couldn’t leave until Monday. The tradition of Sunday Funday was something I couldn’t miss. Before I dive into the history of the Livestock Show, Rodeo, and Black Heritage Day, I want to share with you my personal experience.
The People
Houston really blew my mind. I saw so many beautiful Black men and women. They were dressed in cowboy/cowgirl hats, boots, chaps, and denim everywhere. I’m not sure if they usually dress like this, but they did during this weekend. I felt the heartbeat of the city every place I went.
The Food and Bars – I Had the Best Time
Kelz Kreations - Spring, Texas 10/10 Fried catfish and shrimp combo
The Address Bar & Grill- 10/10 the grits and shrimp
Taste Kitchen & Bar 10/10 The Hennessey sidecar and burger
Juliet’s- Classy restaurant 10/10 The pork belly was amazing
Atlas Bar- The DJ was great, the vibes were amazing Â
Bar 5015- the place I went twice it was a vibe and I loved it
The Alley Kat- This bar was attached to another part that you could walk back and forth different DJS. If I lived in Houston this would probably be my regular spot.
The Accommodations
Hyatt Place Galleria – 7.5 out of 10. This is a standard hotel, nothing special. The carpet to me is outdated. However perfect location and the staff was amazing.
History of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, originally known as the Houston Fat Stock Show and Livestock Exposition, was established in 1931 by seven individuals aiming to preserve and promote the cattle industry along the Texas Gulf Coast (Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo). The inaugural show took place in 1932 at the Democratic Convention Hall. By 1938, the event had expanded to include a rodeo, horse show, and downtown parade, relocating to the Sam Houston Coliseum to accommodate its growing popularity.
Black Heritage Day
Black Heritage Day is a significant component of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions of Black cowboys to Western heritage. This celebration features a variety of activities, including exhibitions, school performances, and entertainment that highlight Black culture and history (Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo - Black Heritage Day). The event serves as a platform to educate attendees about the often-overlooked legacy of Black cowboys and their impact on the development of the American West.
Over the years, Black Heritage Day has showcased numerous notable performances. For instance, in 2025, Houston rapper Bun B headlined the event with his "Birthday Bonanza," featuring artists like Ludacris, Don Toliver, Yolanda Adams, TI, Keith Sweat, Coco Jones, and Jagged Edge (KHOU News). These performances not only entertain but also pay homage to the cultural contributions of Black artists in various genres. The establishment of Black Heritage Day can be attributed to the efforts of the Black Heritage Committee, formed in 1993. This committee recognized the need to celebrate and educate the public about the history and legacy of Black cowboys and the broader Black community's contributions to Western culture (Chron). Attending Black Heritage Day at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Black Western history, celebrate cultural diversity, and enjoy performances that reflect the enduring legacy of Black contributions to the American West.
Houston stole my heart.
Houston has become one of my favorite cities. The men are fine, the women are beautiful all shade of blackness. Even the police officers are fine. l will not miss the next Black Rodeo.
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