The 53rd Dixie National Rodeo is back at the Mississippi Coliseum. The rodeo, concerts, and much more will kick off on February 8 and last through February 14. Cindy Hyde-Smith, the Chairman of the Mississippi Fair Commission, said it’s the best show on dirt and is full of entertainment and family friendly.
“We have world-class professional rodeo competitors that come in,” said Smith. “You talk about athleticism with the animal and the rider, we have the best cowgirls and cowboys that participate. It is one of the premier rodeos and the biggest rodeo east of the Mississippi River. It is one of our biggest in the country. It is professional and we have the best stock.”
Not only will there be nightly rodeos followed by concerts, there will be events such as a parade, a breakfast, the sale of junior champions, a dance, and many animal and livestock shows. Artists such as Josh Turner, Frank Foster, Bellamy Brothers, John Michael Montgomery, Riley Green, Corey Smith and Brett Young will be performing.
“If you just want to have a really good night and walk away and say “wow that was just great”, this is a good place to come and have that experience,” Smith said. “To get a rodeo and a concert for $20 is a pretty good deal.”
Smith encourages everyone to come out for her favorite part of the competition, the Freestyle Reining, on Friday, February 16th, which will be one of the events that continue after the Rodeo.
“I often describe it to people by saying it’s like ice skating except you’re on a horse and you do it to music and it can be some of the most beautiful presentations. You’ll have people with evening gowns on that flow down the back of the horse.” Smith said. “It’s gotten to where we sell out the Coliseum for freestyle reining.”
For a schedule of events and performers, visit their website here.
