I’m sure most of Houston has heard the news by now. If not, then be prepared for a sad update. RodeoHouston, the biggest revenue generator for the city, has officially shut down. As of 4pm on March 11, the grounds officially closed.
What does this mean for those who purchased tickets for the remaining concerts? It still is being worked on how refunds will be distributed. I’ve heard that if you bought tickets through the rodeo’s website, you will get a refund. I have not heard about refunds being distributed through independent websites or smartphone apps.
I did not buy my tickets to see Cody Johnson through the rodeo’s website, but instead used an app on my phone to purchase them. Whether or not I will get a refund is unclear. This is a lesson learned. If something like this happens, you are better off purchasing tickets through the event website rather than an independent vendor.
The closure of RodeoHouston is a huge blow to many kids who are involved in the 4H and Future Farmers of America programs. These kids have worked for a year to raise livestock for showing at this year’s livestock show. The winners in each category are awarded scholarships to use toward furthering their education. RodeoHouston has said they will still award the scholarships, but it is unclear how much will be given out.
The reason for the sudden closure? The corona virus and the fear it could spread due to the massive crowds that attend the different events at NRG Park and NRG stadium. People also started a petition to shut down the rodeo over fears of the corona virus.
RodeoHouston draws more people in a three week span than the Houston Astros do for the entire baseball season. It’s not just the public that is outraged, Vendors who rely on the rodeo for income will be going home with half of their normal earnings. Performers who were scheduled to give concerts will also have to get reimbursed.
In all, this is a huge blow to the city and the local economy. I hope the city can recover from this and get back to normal.
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