PBR
Corpus Christi

Experience Championship Bull Riding in Coastal Texas

The Velocity Tour Finals in Corpus Christi represent more than just another stop on the PBR circuit—they're a proving ground where careers are made and championships are decided. The intense two-day format challenges riders to maintain consistency across multiple rounds while adapting to different bulls each night. With five spots to the PBR World Finals on the line, every ride carries enormous significance for competitors and creates edge-of-your-seat drama for fans.

Previous Corpus Christi Finals have featured spectacular rides and unforgettable moments. In 2025, Marcus Mast went perfect 3-for-3 to claim the Velocity Tour Championship. The 2026 Finals promise similar excitement as the world's top bull riders face off against elite bucking bulls bred specifically for their athletic ability and competitive spirit. Each bull is a carefully selected animal athlete that represents years of breeding and training.

Planning Your Corpus Christi Bull Riding Weekend

Corpus Christi offers exceptional hospitality for PBR fans visiting from across Texas and beyond. Downtown hotels within walking distance of Hilliard Center Arena provide convenient accommodation, while the Corpus Christi waterfront offers dining, entertainment, and scenic views. The Buc Days festival expands the experience beyond the arena, featuring carnival rides, concerts, rodeo events, and family activities throughout downtown.

Arrive early to explore the festival grounds before the 7:30 PM start time. The Stripes Carnival, Shops at Treasure Island, and BBQ on the Bay provide pre-event entertainment. Parking is available in multiple lots operated by Hilliard Center, with ADA-compliant spaces offered on a first-come basis. The venue's Main Entrance on Shoreline Boulevard provides accessible drop-off locations for guests requiring assistance.

What Makes PBR Different from Traditional Rodeo

Professional Bull Riders events aren't traditional rodeos—they're specialized bull riding competitions featuring two hours of non-stop action with pyrotechnics, high-energy music, and dramatic lighting effects. The PBR format focuses exclusively on bull riding, allowing for more rides, better bulls, and higher stakes than multi-event rodeo formats. Riders compete individually for points and prize money, with scores determined by four judges evaluating both rider technique and bull performance.

The PBR scoring system awards up to 100 points per qualified ride—50 for the rider's control and technique, 50 for the bull's difficulty and athleticism. Judges watch for spurring action, body control, and how the rider responds to the bull's movements. A qualified ride requires staying on for eight seconds without touching the bull or ground with the free hand. Bulls are scored on power, speed, drop, and kick, with more aggressive bulls earning higher scores.

The Athletes: Riders and Bulls

Velocity Tour riders represent diverse backgrounds and competing styles, from young emerging talents to experienced veterans climbing back toward Unleash The Beast qualification. Many riders competing in Corpus Christi use the Finals as a launching pad to higher-level competition. The intense pressure of Finals competition—where every ride counts double—separates contenders from champions and provides unforgettable entertainment for fans.

The bulls competing at Hilliard Center Arena are elite animal athletes worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. These specially bred American Bucking Bulls receive premium care, specialized nutrition, and regular veterinary attention. Many become celebrities in their own right, with fans following their careers as closely as the riders. Bulls like these only compete for 6-8 seconds per event, living comfortable lives between competitions at stock contractor ranches.

Ticket Options and Seating at Hilliard Center Arena

Hilliard Center Arena's bowl configuration ensures excellent views from virtually every seat. Lower bowl sections place fans close to the action with unobstructed views of the bucking chutes and arena floor. Upper level seating provides panoramic perspectives that showcase the entire competition area. Premium options include club-level seating with access to exclusive amenities and luxury box suites accommodating groups.

Our marketplace features tickets across all price ranges and seating areas. Single-day tickets let you choose Friday or Saturday night, while 2-day packages ensure you don't miss any of the championship action. Prices vary based on seat location, with floor seats commanding premium prices and upper sections offering budget-friendly alternatives. Remember that Buc Days gate admission isn't required when you hold PBR arena tickets, allowing direct entry to Hilliard Center.

Following the Action: Social Media and Broadcast

Stay connected with the latest PBR news, rider updates, and event information by following @PBR on Instagram, PBR on Facebook, and @PBR on X. The official PBR.com website provides standings, rider profiles, bull statistics, and comprehensive event coverage throughout the season.

The Velocity Tour receives extensive broadcast coverage, bringing the excitement of Corpus Christi to fans worldwide. Check PBR's watch page for streaming options and broadcast schedules. However, nothing compares to experiencing the thunder of hooves, the roar of the crowd, and the tension of championship competition live at Hilliard Center Arena.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the PBR Corpus Christi 2026 event?

The PBR Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour Finals take place on Friday, May 1, 2026, and Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Hilliard Center Arena in Corpus Christi, Texas. Both evening sessions begin at 7:30 PM Central Time. The Finals are part of the annual Buc Days celebration and represent the culminating event of the Velocity Tour season.

Where is the PBR Corpus Christi event held?

The event is held at Hilliard Center Arena, located at 1 Shoreline Boulevard in downtown Corpus Christi, Texas. This premier 10,000-seat indoor arena sits on the Corpus Christi Bay waterfront and hosts major sporting events, concerts, and conventions. The venue offers excellent sightlines, modern amenities, and convenient access to downtown hotels and restaurants.

How much are PBR Corpus Christi tickets?

Ticket prices vary based on seating location, event demand, and availability on our resale marketplace. As a third-party marketplace, prices are set by individual sellers and typically range from budget-friendly upper level seats to premium floor and club-level options. Our transparent pricing includes all fees upfront with no hidden charges at checkout, and you can compare multiple sellers to find the best value for your preferred seating area.

Can I buy single-day tickets or do I need a 2-day package?

Both single-day tickets and 2-day packages are available through our marketplace. Single-day tickets allow you to attend either Friday or Saturday night, which is perfect if you can only make one session. The 2-day packages offer the complete Finals experience across both nights of competition. Check availability for both options as inventory varies by seller.

What is the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour?

The Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour is the PBR's premier expansion series featuring elite bull riders competing for points to qualify for the Unleash The Beast tour and ultimately the PBR World Finals. The tour visits 27 cities across 21 states during a five-month season, showcasing emerging talent alongside established champions. The Corpus Christi Finals conclude the regular season and determine the Velocity Tour Champion while awarding five qualification spots to the PBR World Finals.

Are children allowed at PBR events?

Yes, PBR events are family-friendly entertainment suitable for all ages. Children two years old and above require their own ticket for admission. The exciting atmosphere, impressive athletes, and powerful bulls create memorable experiences for young fans, though parents should be aware that bull riding is an intense competitive sport. Many families attend together to enjoy the Western sports entertainment that PBR provides.

Is this event part of Buc Days?

Yes, the PBR Velocity Tour Finals are a featured attraction of Buc Days, Corpus Christi's iconic annual celebration. While PBR tickets provide direct entry to Hilliard Center Arena without requiring separate festival gate admission, the broader Buc Days festival offers carnival rides, concerts, rodeo events, and family activities throughout downtown Corpus Christi. The PBR Finals kick off the Buc Days festivities which continue May 5-9 with additional rodeo and entertainment.

What time should I arrive at Hilliard Center Arena?

Doors typically open approximately one hour before the 7:30 PM start time, though you should verify specific door times on your tickets. Arriving early allows time for parking, security screening, concessions, and finding your seats before the opening ceremonies. If you plan to explore the Buc Days festival activities before the competition, allocate additional time as the festival grounds offer numerous attractions beyond the arena.

Where can I park for the PBR event?

Hilliard Center operates multiple parking lots around the venue with rates typically ranging from five dollars for general parking to ten dollars for premium spots. All parking areas operated by the convention center are ADA-compliant with designated accessible parking on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional privately owned lots near downtown may be available. Ride-sharing drop-off is available at the main entrance on Shoreline Boulevard.

What is the difference between PBR and rodeo?

PBR is not a traditional rodeo format—it's a specialized two-hour bull riding showcase featuring pyrotechnics, dynamic lighting, and high-energy music. Traditional rodeos include seven events like saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, and roping, while PBR focuses exclusively on bull riding with more rides, tougher bulls, and higher production values. The concentrated format creates more intense action and allows fans to see the world's best bull riding without the slower pace of multi-event rodeo competitions.

Are tickets on this site legitimate?

Yes, all tickets sold through our marketplace come from verified sellers and are guaranteed authentic. We are an established ticket resale marketplace with over 20 years in business and excellent ratings on Trustpilot. Every transaction includes buyer protection, secure payment processing, and verified seller authentication. We are not affiliated with PBR or the venue, but we connect fans with trusted resellers offering competitive prices across all seating options.

Can I sell my PBR Corpus Christi tickets?

While we primarily focus on connecting buyers with established verified sellers, those interested in selling tickets should visit BigStub.com to learn about selling opportunities. Our marketplace platform facilitates secure transactions between verified sellers and buyers, ensuring both parties receive professional service and appropriate protections throughout the process.

What happens if the event is canceled?

In the unlikely event of cancellation or postponement, refund policies depend on the specific seller from whom you purchased tickets. Many sellers follow venue refund policies for canceled events. BigStub provides customer support to assist with any issues related to canceled or postponed events. We recommend reviewing the seller's terms before completing your purchase.

What should I wear to a PBR event?

PBR events have no strict dress code, so wear comfortable clothing appropriate for an indoor arena. Many fans embrace Western style with jeans, boots, and cowboy hats, while others dress casually in regular clothing. The arena climate is temperature-controlled, so layers are recommended. Comfortable footwear is advisable as you may be standing and cheering during exciting moments of competition.

Are there food and drinks available at Hilliard Center Arena?

Yes, Hilliard Center Arena features multiple concession stands throughout the venue offering traditional arena fare including nachos, hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, soft drinks, and beer. Concessions typically open when doors open and remain available throughout the event. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the arena. Credit cards and cash are generally accepted at concession stands.

How do I access my tickets after purchase?

Ticket delivery methods vary by seller but commonly include electronic tickets sent via email that you present on your smartphone at entry, physical tickets mailed to your address, or mobile transfer through ticketing apps. You'll receive detailed delivery information during the checkout process. Be sure to download or print your tickets before arriving at the venue to ensure smooth entry through arena gates.