Welcome to the Rodeo Capital of Texas!

Smoke & Saddles Rodeo & BBQ Festival

June 5-8

Saddle up for Mesquite’s largest rodeo & BBQ celebration!!

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind event as the Smoke & Saddles Festival takes over Mesquite from June 5-8, 2025! This multi-day festival celebrates the opening weekend of the Mesquite Championship Rodeo and will bring a mouthwatering BBQ cookoff, an artisan market, and thrilling rodeo action. This event showcases the best of Texas culture and entertainment.

Don’t miss the rodeo’s opening night on Saturday, June 7, featuring country music star Kody West and the highly anticipated Smoke & Saddles BBQ Cookoff. Whether you’re a rodeo fan, a foodie, or just looking for a great time, there’s something for everyone at Smoke & Saddles.

Mark your calendar for June 5-8, 2025, and join us for an unforgettable festival experience

Highlights Include:

  • Mesquite Championship Rodeo
  • BBQ Cook-Off
  • Artisan Market
  • Carnival Rides
  • Mesquite Rodeo Road Rally
Smoke & Saddles Rodeo & BBQ Festival" text with a silhouette of a cowboy on a bucking horse against a gradient sky.
A brightly lit Ferris wheel spins at night, surrounded by blurred crowds and illuminated stalls. The sky is dark with scattered small stars.

Thursday, June 5 – Sunday, June 8

Amusements Midway brought to you by Triple T Amusements! Enjoy thrilling rides, games, and classic carnival treats that are fun for the whole family. The midway is open Thursday through Sunday, June 8.

  • Thursday & Friday carnival opens at 5 pm
  • Saturday carnival opens at 11 am
  • Sunday carnival opens at 3 pm
Poster for "Smokes & Saddles" BBQ contest and rodeo event on June 7th at Mesquite Rodeo, Texas, with a $5,000 prize. Featuring a live performance by Kody West.

Saturday, June 7 – Rodeo & BBQ Cookoff!

Smoke & Saddles BBQ Cookoff: Watch talented pitmasters compete in a sizzling showdown. Sample award-worthy brisket, ribs, and more while enjoying live music and the electric atmosphere of this BBQ extravaganza. Are you interested in competing in the Smoke & Saddles BBQ Cookoff? Email info@visitmesquitetx.com or sign up here!

Saddle Up Boutique & Artisan Market: Explore unique, handmade goods and creations from Texas’ best artisans and local businesses at the Mesquite Convention Center. This one-day-only market is open to the public on Saturday. Want to become a Boutique & Artisan Vendor, sign up here!

Mesquite Championship Rodeo: The festival’s main event begins Saturday night at the Mesquite Arena. Experience thrilling rodeo action, followed by an unforgettable performance by Kody West.

The Rodeo Road Rally: is back on June 7, 2025, with 4 distances to choose from. The Annual Road Rally event is the Rotary Club of Mesquite’s flagship fundraiser program. The club can give back to the community through scholarships for local high school students and donations to local charities and the Mesquite ISD Education Foundation.

Need more info about planning a group travel or event in Mesquite?