Concerned over a public health crisis because of the corona virus, the city of Houston and its health department announced that the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo would close suddenly today (March 11).
Although it was not mentioned at a press conference led by Mayor Sylvester Turner along with other city and rodeo officials, ABC-13 Reporter Miya Shay posted on her social media: “The rodeo didn’t want to say it, but they cancelled the rodeo because a guy went to cookoff on Feb. 28. and tested positive yesterday.”
Houston’s signature annual event was to be shut down by 4 p.m., with 11 days remaining — including spring break for most area districts.
This was the statement from the HLS&R:
In the interest of public health, the City of Houston and the Houston Health Department have ordered the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ to close. The Rodeo will respectfully and dutifully comply with the City’s order.
The Rodeo is deeply saddened; however, the safety and well-being of our guests and our community is our top priority. Out of precaution, the City has decided that this is the best course of action for our community.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has been a fabric of this community since 1932. Having to close early is extremely difficult as guests, volunteers, exhibitors, rodeo athletes and entertainers look forward to the 20 days of the Rodeo each year.
We look forward to the 2021 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to continue to promote agriculture, education, entertainment and Western heritage. We will provide additional information as it becomes available. Updates will be posted at rodeohouston.com/2020.
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