When I was in elementary school, Go Texan Day was a big deal. We spent weeks practicing our square dancing in P.E. On the big day, our parents would come watch us do-si-do in our little cowboy boots and hats. I always looked forward to school on Go Texan Day, because I got to admire the kids and grown-ups in their colorful western wear. It wasn’t until I was almost a teenager that I learned square dancing was not required in all P.E. classes across the country 👢
As an adult, I’m still filled with that same excitement as we approach Go Texan Day this Friday. It’s the unofficial kick-off to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, when Houstonians – new, young, old and in-between – are all encouraged to wear their best western gear. It’s the one day of the year where we fulfill every stereotype that people outside of Texas think we do every day. A Houstonian wearing a cowboy hat and boots inside H-E-B? Normal. Seeing horseback riders on major Houston streets? Also totally normal. Houston parents posting photos of their kids donned in their best western gear on Facebook? Definitely happening. And if you ask me, it’s one of the best days of the year to be a Houstonian because it’s amazing to watch so many Houstonians take part in a long-lasting tradition.
And Go Texan Day is not complete without watching the trail riders come in from all over the state. The trail ride tradition began in 1952 when four men rode on horseback from Brenham to Houston. Decades later, more than 3,000 people still ride their horses into Houston, camp at Memorial Park, and then journey through the city to the rodeo kick-off. Only in Houston can you spot runners at Memorial Park next to a trail of cowboys trotting on horseback. It’s a sight that everyone must see at least once. The best time to view the action is on Friday between noon and 4 p.m., either on Memorial Drive or the Memorial Loop.
So, grab your best cowboy boots and go watch the trail riders. And, then we’ll go back to “normal” after rodeo season 🤠
My parents and I during rodeo season last year. (Brooke Lewis/City Cast Houston)
