Rodeo action, country music concerts, and one of Mississippi’s annual parades are set to take over Jackson as the 61st Dixie National Rodeo rides into town this weekend.
This year’s theme, “For the Love of Country,” highlights the event’s patriotic focus and ties into national celebrations leading up to America’s 250th anniversary.
Here’s what to know before you go:
When is the Dixie National Rodeo and Parade?
Daily editions of the Dixie National Rodeo are scheduled for Feb. 13–15 and Feb. 18–21, with concerts following each performance. The accompanying livestock show is already underway and runs through Feb. 22.
The Dixie National Parade is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 14, starting at 10:30 a.m. in downtown Jackson and ending around 11:45 a.m. The parade begins at Mississippi and Jefferson streets, passes the state capitol, turns onto Amite Street, and concludes near Gate 1 of the Mississippi State Fairgrounds. Prime viewing areas are near the Capitol around President, High, and West streets. Organizers say this year’s theme will be reflected in parade entries, displays, and the event’s programming.
Where is the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo?
The rodeo and concerts take place inside the Mississippi Coliseum at the state fairgrounds in Jackson. Livestock shows are held across the fairgrounds in the Swine Arena and livestock barns.
For out-of-town guests, city officials have shared hotel recommendations here.
How can you get tickets?
Ticket prices vary depending on seating and performance dates. Rodeo tickets include admission to the concert immediately following the performance.
Children under 18 months of age do not require a ticket. All other attendees must have a ticket, which can be purchased online or at the coliseum’s box office.
What’s this year’s musical entertainment?
Concerts are scheduled after each rodeo performance. Headliners include Joe Nichols and Tanya Tucker, along with several other acts:
- Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. — Ole 60: A Kentucky-based southern rock band with hits like “Smoke & Light” and “Brother Joe.”
- Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. — Bayker Blankenship: The young up-and-comer showcases “Maxed Out” and “Tennessee Sunset.”
- Feb. 15 at 2 p.m. — Joe Nichols: Known for “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off,” “Broken Heartsville,” and “Sunny and 75.”
- Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. — Tanya Tucker: Performs classics like “Delta Dawn” and “What’s Your Mama’s Name.”
- Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. — Waylon Wyatt: The 18-year-old from Arkansas performs “Smoke & Embers” and “Everything Under the Sun.”
- Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. — Muscadine Bloodline: The indie-country duo delivers “Porch Swing Angel” and “Me On You.”
- Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. — Mark Chesnutt: Brings 1990s country hits like “Bubba Shot the Jukebox” and “Too Cold at Home.”
What events can you expect?
Fans can enjoy traditional rodeo competitions, including:
- Bareback and saddle bronc riding: Riders attempt to stay on bucking horses for eight seconds.
- Steer wrestling: A mounted cowboy chases and wrestles a running steer to the ground.
- Team roping: Two riders work together to catch and immobilize a steer as quickly as possible.
- Barrel racing: Horse and rider navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels at high speed.
- Bull riding: Contestants try to ride a bucking bull for eight seconds, holding on with one hand to a braided rope wrapped around the animal’s chest.
The larger Dixie National events also feature livestock shows, youth competitions, agricultural exhibits, vendors, and other community activities.
Why should you attend?
Mississippi’s Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo highlights the state’s agriculture and youth livestock programs while bringing visitors and economic activity to central Mississippi each year.
“Watching this event grow into the most distinguished rodeo east of the Mississippi River has been remarkable, and we look forward to carrying the legacy forward,” Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson said. “We invite you to wear red, white, and blue and join us once again for what truly is the ‘Greatest Show on Dirt!'”
The main event draws roughly 200,000 visitors annually, making it the largest rodeo east of the Mississippi River.
More information about the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo can be found here.