Cody Johnson Sets Concert Attendance Record at 2026 Houston Rodeo More than 2.6 million people attended the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo this year, surpassing the previous record for the event’s three-week span. The total attendance included visitors to the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, an annual kickoff event for the rodeo. This marks a slight decline from the 2025 record of 2.7 million attendees. The final night of the rodeo saw a significant milestone as Cody Johnson’s concert at NRG Stadium broke the record for highest attendance at a concert-only performance. Over 80,000 fans gathered for the event, setting a new benchmark since the rodeo began tracking such data. Chris Boleman, president and CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, highlighted the event’s role in representing Texas traditions, emphasizing its impact through entertainment, competition, and educational opportunities. Despite the record attendance, the rodeo faced several controversies throughout the event. Harris County Executive Lina Hidalgo and four guests attempted to access a premium seating area in NRG Stadium without proper credentials. Hidalgo claimed she was threatened with arrest, shoved by security, and escorted out of the concert. Rodeo officials disputed her account, expressing disappointment in her actions and voting to remove her from the event’s board of directors, which was tied to her elected position as county judge. Security measures were also adjusted following a fight in the carnival area on March 15, which led to early closure of the event and confusion among attendees. In response, the rodeo increased security enforcement and updated its dress code policy.#houston_livestock_show_and_rodeo #lina_hidalgo #cody_johnson #nr_g_stadium #mason_grady
