Dixie National has events for the whole family

The 56th Annual Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo kicked off Friday at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds, but there’s still plenty of family-friendly events to come. The Dixie National, the largest rodeo event east of the Mississippi River, brings in participants from all over the world and generates millions of dollars in the local economy.

“For well over 50 years now, the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo has been a cherished tradition for competitors, families and spectators, not only from Mississippi, but across the nation,” said Andy Gipson, commissioner of agriculture and commerce. “This year will include all the usual fan favorites, such as the Dixie National Rodeo Parade and the Junior Sale of Champions, as well as the first ever Dixie National Expo in the new Trade Mart, which features agricultural and vendor booths, including the Genuine MS store. And we’re doing it all within the guidance of our COVID-19 Safe Rodeo Plan.”

The Junior Round-Up Livestock Shows run Friday, Feb. 5, through Wednesday, Feb. 10, and will conclude with the Junior Sale of Champions Thursday, Feb. 11. Open livestock shows begin Saturday, Feb. 13, and conclude Tuesday, Feb. 16. The Dixie National Quarter Horse Show is taking place Thursday, Feb. 18, through Sunday, Feb. 21, and will conclude the livestock and equine shows.

The Dixie National Rodeo Entertainment takes place Thursday, Feb. 11, through Wednesday, Feb. 17, in the coliseum with performances by The Oak Ridge Boys, Parker McCollum, Moe Bandy, John Conlee, Sawyer Brown, Justin Moore and Riley Green. Tickets can be purchased at the Coliseum Box Office or online at Ticketmaster. Tickets are limited due to public health guidance, so the public is encouraged to purchase tickets in advance.

This year’s Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo will include several new events and amenities. The first Dixie National Expo and Antique Tractor Show, featuring the Genuine MS Store, will be in the new Trade Mart Thursday, Feb. 11, through Sunday, Feb. 14. The Dixie National Rodeo Cowboy Up Blood Drive will be held at the Mississippi Farmers Market Friday, Feb. 12, and Saturday, Feb. 13. The Dixie National Steakhouse will be serving steaks each day from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. from Feb. 5 until Feb. 17 in the Trade Mart. Attendees will have the opportunity to see a variety of safari animals from McLain Lodge’s petting zoo. Rodeo attendees will have the chance to remember Lecile Harris, longtime Dixie National rodeo clown and entertainer, and take a photo with the new mural honoring Lecile inside of the Coliseum.

The Mississippi State Fairgrounds is implementing precautionary measures to ensure the safety of rodeo participants and attendees. Sanitization stations and safe practices signage will be posted throughout the facility. Applicable public health guidance will be required regarding social distancing and masks.

For more information on the rodeo, concerts and schedules, download the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo mobile app, visit www.dixienational.org, “like” the Dixie National Livestock Show & Rodeo page on Facebook, or call 601-961-4000.