Students from the Culinary Institute Lenotre recently had the exciting opportunity to participate in the world largest BBQ Championship cook off that kicks of the start of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the largest livestock exhibition and rodeo in the world. This iconic Texas tradition began in 1932 as the Houston Fat Stock Show and Livestock Exposition and has grown into a major event that attracts millions of visitors each year.
During this three-day volunteer event, our students assisted the Extreme Texas Cookers BBQ team, gaining valuable hands-on experience while working alongside seasoned pitmasters. The experience allowed students to observe large-scale barbecue preparation, learn more about Texas barbecue traditions, and support the operations that help bring this beloved culinary experience to rodeo guests.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo features professional rodeo competitions such as bull riding, barrel racing, and roping, along with major live concerts at NRG Stadium, a large carnival and fair, livestock exhibitions, and a variety of agricultural education programs. While the rodeo is widely known for its entertainment, its deeper mission focuses on supporting agriculture, preserving Western heritage, and providing scholarships to Texas students.
Through their participation, our students experienced firsthand the scale and impact of one of Texas’ most celebrated events. Opportunities like this allow students to expand their learning beyond the classroom while connecting culinary education with agriculture, community involvement, and the traditions that influence the food industry. The experience was both educational and inspiring, as students proudly represented the Culinary Institute while contributing their time and skills to an event dedicated to supporting the next generation through education and scholarship.