The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has named longtime RODEOHOUSTON announcer Bob Tallman as grand marshal of the 2027 Downtown Rodeo Parade. Tallman has been the voice of RODEOHOUSTON for 45 years, and he is known for his "Hello, Houston!" greeting.
Chris Boleman, president and CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, said Tallman has meant a great deal to the event and its visitors. Boleman said having Tallman lead the parade is a meaningful way to begin the rodeo's 95th season. Tallman was inducted into the RODEOHOUSTON Hall of Fame's inaugural class in 2024. The story says his career includes nearly 15,000 rodeo performances in several countries, and that he was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2004.
The parade is an 89-year Houston tradition and marks the official start of the rodeo season. It covers 1.5 miles through downtown and includes floats, trail riders, mounted groups, marching bands and volunteers. Tallman will lead the parade on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2027. The 2027 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo begins Tuesday, March 2.