Before entering Chase Field, people could get lost in the surrounding streets lined with vendors and live performers. Fans had the opportunity to buy a custom cowboy hat, ride a mechanical bull and play with piglets all within one street. 

The baseball stadium served as a special venue for both fans and rodeo participants, as the event served as a first-time rodeo experience for many attendees. Contestants competed for large sums of money, which amplified the bold first impression. The crowd had an electric energy throughout the whole weekend, whether it was for a bucking bronco or their favorite performance artist. 

Day One 

As soon as the last bull rider finished his run, fans began pouring onto the venue’s floor and racing for a position in the front row. Treaty Oak Revival, a group from Texas growing in popularity, opened the night’s performances for Nickelback. Frontman, Sam Canty, brought an infectious energy that spread throughout the stadium. 

The band played a variety of their hits including “Missed Call” and their 2025 hit single, “Bad State of Mind.”

After the crowd was seemingly fully invigorated, energy shot through the roof of Chase Field when Chad Kroeger and Nickelback stepped foot on stage. With it being their last performance of the year, Nickelback didn’t hold back anything. The band even had saddle bronc rider and fellow Canadian, Zeke Thurston, sing “Rockstar” on stage with them.

Fans were on their feet singing along during the whole performance, but especially for “Photograph” and “Animals.” 

Day Two 

The street festival and lines into the stadium grew on Saturday despite the change of headliner announced earlier in October. After pulling out due to a burst eardrum, Kid Rock replaced Cody Johnson. The opener in John Pardi  stayed the same as he performed some of his most recognizable country hits. 

Pardi fittingly performed “Mr. Saturday Night” and many hits off of his popular “California Sunrise” album, like “Head Over Boots.” 

After a patriotic video montage, Kid Rock literally kicked down the doors to enter the stage and covered every inch of the stage during the first few minutes. The same energy persisted throughout the performance while also generating mass patriotism within the audience.  

Fans loved every bit of the night as Kid Rock delivered stellar performances to “Cowboy” and “All Summer Long.” 

Day Three 

With Monday looming, fans were not deterred from packing the stadium to experience the final night of rodeo festivities and country music. Rodeo champions of the weekend were honored on stage with prize money and belt buckles before performances began. Heartthrob Riley Green opened the night and had many people sprinting to claim front row spots. 

Green entertained fans with hits like “Worst Way,” but also delivered an intimate performance of “Jesus Saves.” 

Jason Aldean knew just how to wrap up the night and weekend of country fun. A hitmaker for the past 20 years, he did not disappoint with a great performance from start to finish. Aldean previewed some songs on his upcoming album, “Songs About Us,” for attendees. 

While looking ahead, Aldean also performed some fan-favorite throwbacks such as “Hicktown” and “Why.” 

Overall, The Hondo Rodeo Fest was able to encapsulate cowboy culture in the heart of a big city like Phoenix. Performances from rodeo athletes and artists captured attendees all weekend long. 

For more information about The Hondo Rodeo Fest and their newly announced expansion to New Orleans visit their website.