From Texana:

"On March 2, 1836, Texas declared its independence from Mexico and became the Republic of Texas. For ten years, from 1836 to 1846, Texas existed precariously as a separate and unique nation. In Texas, March 2 is an official state holiday - Texas Independence Day. Each year, there are numerous parades, festivals and even a complete historical reenactment of the event."

You can read a copy of The Texas Declaration of Independence at Texana. It's fascinating in so much as it reveals the attitudes of its time.

Texas Independence Day also marks the beginning of rodeo season in Texas, starting with The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, which runs for about three weeks in March.

The Livestock show provides opportunities for student FFA and professionals to bring livestock for exhibit, sale and auction. The animals range from cattle, sheep and horses to llamas, ostrich and rabbits. There's plenty of petting zoos and tents full of arts, crafts and general merchandise to buy. Oh, and there's food too. Plenty of it!

The Rodeo happens at the same time, with competitions ranging from the well-known wild bronc riding to barrel racing (my favorite, and mainly a women's sport) roping, and chuck wagon races. After the formal competitions there's the concerts which can draw HUGE crowds. Elvis Presley played the Houston Rodeo in 1970 for six shows and in 1974 for two shows.

Shortly after, or concurrently, other cities in Texas have rodeos and livestock shows, but Houston's is by far the largest in the state and draws some mega-star performers for its concerts. I've been a couple of times when I was younger. My favorite parts? The barrel racing, the food, the concert and the petting zoos. :-)

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