HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors, has been canceled for 2021 because of concerns over the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, event officials announced on Wednesday.
Organizers had previously moved the rodeo from March to May. But after consulting with local and state officials, along with medical experts, organizers concluded canceling the event was in the best interest of the health and well-being of the community, said Chris Boleman, president and CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
“It has become evident that the current health situation has not improved to the degree necessary to host our event,” Boleman said.
This is the second year in a row the pandemic has impacted the rodeo. Last year’s event was canceled about halfway through its run as a precaution against the coronavirus.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, the county’s top elected official, commended the decision, saying it will help stop the spread of COVID-19 and help the Houston area “get back to normal, get our economy running at full speed.”
