If you’re new to Houston and eager to discover what makes Texas culture so iconic, consider heading north this May to experience one of the boldest, most unforgettable events in the state—the 2025 PBR World Finals.
Held in Fort Worth and Arlington, this annual event is the championship showdown of the Professional Bull Riders tour. It’s where the top athletes in Western sports face off against some of the toughest bulls in the world, and fans pack the stands to cheer, celebrate, and connect with tradition.
From the roar of the crowd to the raw power in the arena, the PBR World Finals isn’t just another event—it’s a defining Texas experience. And for newcomers to Houston, it’s a chance to see the state’s western spirit up close.
What Is the PBR World Finals?
The PBR World Finals is the ultimate stage of the Unleash The Beast tour, the premier global series in professional bull riding. Since its founding in 1992, the PBR has grown from a niche sport to an international powerhouse, but its roots remain deeply Texan.
This championship event brings together the world’s best bull riders and toughest bulls for one purpose: to crown the new World Champion.
With eight seconds on the clock and thousands watching, each ride is a high-stakes test of grit, skill, and control. It’s unlike anything you’ll see in any other sport—and it makes for one thrilling weekend.
The 2025 Schedule: Two Texas Icons, One Epic Event
This year’s event spans two legendary venues in North Texas:
Cowtown Coliseum – Fort Worth, TX
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World Finals Eliminations: May 8–11
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Ride for Redemption: May 14–15
The competition begins in Fort Worth’s famous Stockyards, where the early rounds take place in the historic Cowtown Coliseum. Riders fight their way through eliminations and redemption rounds for a chance at the championship stage.
AT&T Stadium – Arlington, TX
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Kid Rock’s Rock N Rodeo: Friday, May 16
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PBR World Finals Championship: May 17–18
Once the field is narrowed, the action shifts to AT&T Stadium in Arlington—home of the Dallas Cowboys and one of the most iconic venues in American sports.
Friday night launches with Kid Rock’s Rock N Rodeo, an arena-wide spectacle that blends music, pyro, and rodeo excitement into one high-octane performance. Then, the championship showdown takes place across Saturday and Sunday, where the top riders go head-to-head for the ultimate title.
Learn more or get tickets at: pbrworldfinals.com
Why It’s Worth the Trip from Houston
If you’re relocating to Houston or recently arrived in Southeast Texas, this is your chance to explore the broader cultural landscape of the state. While Houston boasts world-class dining, art, and innovation, the PBR World Finals gives you a direct line to Texas tradition—complete with cowboy boots, cheering fans, and unforgettable rides.
It’s also a great way to meet like-minded Texans and see how different regions of the state celebrate their heritage. It’s a short flight or a solid road trip from Houston, and the reward is well worth it.
Bonus: Enter to Win Free Tickets
To help make your visit even better, we’re giving away a pair of tickets to Kid Rock’s Rock N Rodeo on May 16 and a pair of tickets to the PBR World Finals Championship on May 18—all for free.
How to enter:
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Follow us on Instagram or Facebook
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Tag a friend who loves rodeo or live music
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Complete the quick entry form at the link above
No purchase necessary. Must be 18+ to enter. Registration closes Thursday, May 15, at 12 PM Central Time.
Relocating to Houston? Welcome to Texas
When you’re relocating to Houston, events like the PBR World Finals offer a gateway into Texas culture beyond the city limits. It’s an opportunity to connect with the energy, history, and heart of the state—and to see why Texans take pride in doing everything bigger.
Whether you go for the music, the sport, or the sheer spectacle, you’ll come back with stories, photos, and a deeper connection to the place you now call home.
Request your free Houston Newcomer Guide here
