Ready for Go Texan Day and the Rodeo? Here’s How to Stay Allergy Free at These Fun Houston Events

What is Go Texan Day?

Go Texan Day is one of the most exciting and vibrant events in Houston, Texas! Held annually on the Friday before the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, this day is all about celebrating the heart and soul of Texas culture. From donning your best cowboy boots and hats to enjoying delicious local food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

On Go Texan Day, people across Houston – from schools to businesses – get in the spirit by dressing up in their finest Western wear, making it the perfect time to embrace the Texan lifestyle. You’ll see parades, rodeo activities, and fun events around the city, as well as tons of Texan pride displayed in every corner.

It’s also a great time to check out the local food scene, where you’ll find everything from BBQ to Tex-Mex, all served up with a Texas-sized helping of hospitality. Whether attending the rodeo, participating in community activities, or simply enjoying the festivities with friends and family, Go Texan Day is a fantastic way to celebrate everything that makes Texas unique!

So, grab your hat, put on your boots, and get ready for a fun-filled day full of tradition, music, and all-around Texas fun!

But while you’re enjoying the festivities, it’s important to remember that certain allergens can be prevalent during these events, potentially causing discomfort for people with allergies. Understanding what allergens may be present and avoiding them can help ensure you have a fun and allergy-free time.

What Allergens Can You Find at the Rodeo or Go Texan Day?

Here’s a breakdown of potential allergens you might encounter at Go Texan Day festivities or the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, along with tips on protecting yourself.

1. Pollen

Houston’s spring season, including the rodeo and Go Texan Day, coincides with high pollen levels, especially from trees, grasses, and weeds. While Houston is known for its warm weather, the city also experiences high pollen counts, which can trigger allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses.

Common pollen sources include:

• Tree pollen: Oak, cedar, and birch trees release large amounts of pollen in the spring.
• Grass pollen: Bermuda grass, ryegrass, and other grasses release pollen that can travel for miles.
• Weed pollen: Ragweed, a common weed in Texas, releases pollen that can cause seasonal allergies for many.

Tips to manage pollen exposure:

• Stay indoors during peak pollen times, usually early morning and late afternoon.
• Keep windows and doors closed indoors to prevent pollen from entering.
• Wear sunglasses to help protect your eyes from pollen when you’re outdoors.
• Consider using allergy medications like antihistamines or nasal sprays to reduce symptoms.

2. Dust and Dirt

Outdoor events like Go Texan Day can expose you to dust and dirt, which are common allergens. The crowds, outdoor activities, and open spaces can stir up dust and debris, which can be particularly bothersome for those with asthma or sensitivities to particulate matter.

Common dust-related allergens include:

• Dust mites: Though usually found indoors, dust mites can be present in outdoor settings, especially if there’s dirt or dry soil.
• Particulate matter: This can include small particles from dirt, smoke, or air pollution.

Tips to manage dust exposure:

• If dust levels are high, bring a scarf, bandana, or mask to cover your nose and mouth. (Bandanas fit the cowboy theme!)
• Keep hydrated, as dry air and dust can irritate your respiratory system.
• If you have asthma or respiratory conditions, keep your inhaler or medication with you during the event.

3. Food Allergens

One of the highlights of Go Texan Day is the delicious local food, ranging from barbecue to Tex-Mex and fried treats. While these foods can be tasty, they can also contain common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, wheat, and shellfish. It’s important to know the ingredients in any food you eat and ask vendors about their offerings if you have food allergies.

Common food allergens include:

• Peanuts and tree nuts: Many festival foods, including snacks, candy, and baked goods, may contain nuts or be processed in facilities that handle them.
• Dairy: Items like cheese, milk, and ice cream are often included in festival foods.
• Gluten: With so many breaded or fried foods available, gluten is a common allergen at outdoor events.
• Shellfish: Seafoods like shrimp and crawfish are popular in Texas cuisine, but they can cause severe allergic reactions in some people.

Tips to manage food allergies:

• Always ask about ingredients or potential cross-contamination when ordering food.
• Carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) if you have severe allergies.
• If you have specific allergies, consider eating before attending or bringing your own snacks.
• Many food vendors will list common allergens on their menu boards or be able to accommodate special dietary requests.

4. Animal Dander

Go Texan Day and the rodeo often include rodeos, petting zoos, and animal shows featuring livestock, horses, and other animals. Being around animals can trigger reactions such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and respiratory problems for those with pet or animal allergies.

Common animal-related allergens include:

• Horse dander: Horses are a standard part of Go Texan Day celebrations, especially as the Trail Riders slowly make their way to Houston, and their dander can cause allergic reactions for some people.
• Livestock dander: Cows, goats, and pigs may also be present, and their dander can be irritating.

Tips to manage animal dander exposure:

• Stay away from areas where animals are housed or where there is direct contact with animals.
• If you’re prone to animal allergies, take allergy medications before attending.
• Keep your distance from petting zoos or animal-related exhibits if you’re sensitive to animal dander.

5. Fragrances and Perfumes

With large crowds at events like the amazing concerts each night at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, you can be surrounded by strong scents from perfumes, colognes, or scented lotions worn by fellow music lovers. For some people, exposure to these scents can cause headaches, sneezing, or even asthma attacks.

Tips to manage fragrance sensitivity:

• If you’re sensitive to fragrances, try to keep a safe distance from heavily scented areas or people.
• Use fragrance-free skincare and deodorants to minimize your exposure to strong scents.

Kick Your Boots Up and Be Allergy Safe

Go Texan Day and the rodeo in Houston are exciting celebrations of all things Texan, but it’s important to be aware of the allergens that could cause discomfort during the event. Whether it’s pollen from the spring air, dust and dirt, food allergens, animal dander, or fragrances, there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms. By being prepared and taking precautions, you can enjoy the festivities while controlling your allergies. Stay informed, plan ahead, and don’t let allergens ruin your fun at Go Texan Day!

If your allergies get out of control or you’re tired of having to rely on over-the-counter medications to breathe, come see us at Allergy & ENT Associates. With over 18 locations in the Greater Houston area, we’re here to serve you!