Extraco Events Center Waco
Waco's premier venue for diverse events, from thrilling rodeos and festive holiday markets to equestrian competitions and community expos.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Holiday magic with North Pole Palooza!
Extraco Events Center Waco
Best Time
Holiday magic with North Pole Palooza!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Waco's premier venue for diverse events, from thrilling rodeos and festive holiday markets to equestrian competitions and community expos.
"This place rocks! Good job Extraco Events Center Staff also for helping German foreigners find their seats."
🎟️ Buy Fair Tickets Early
Save money by purchasing Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo tickets in advance.
⛸️ Book Ice Skating Slots
For North Pole Palooza, reserve your ice skating times online to guarantee a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

North Pole Palooza
Extraco Events Center
Experience a winter wonderland with ice skating, snow, and a candy store during the holiday season.
Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo
Extraco Events Center
A major annual event featuring a rodeo, carnival rides, live music, and local vendors.

Holiday Markets & Shopping Events
The BASE at Extraco Events Center
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at various holiday markets like Deck the Halls and Texas Market Guide.

Horse Charity Shows & Barrel Races
Extraco Arena
A premier venue for equestrian events, offering excellent facilities for horses and riders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Event Schedules
Parking and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Fair Tickets Early
Save money by purchasing Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo tickets in advance.
⛸️ Book Ice Skating Slots
For North Pole Palooza, reserve your ice skating times online to guarantee a spot.
🛍️ Check Market Dates
Holiday markets and shopping events have specific dates; verify before you go.
🐴 Horse Event Info
For equestrian events, confirm stall availability and event schedules directly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Fair Tickets Early
Save money by purchasing Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo tickets in advance.
⛸️ Book Ice Skating Slots
For North Pole Palooza, reserve your ice skating times online to guarantee a spot.
🛍️ Check Market Dates
Holiday markets and shopping events have specific dates; verify before you go.
🐴 Horse Event Info
For equestrian events, confirm stall availability and event schedules directly.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Walk
Parking can be a walk from the main venues, especially during large events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Extraco Events Center to be a spacious and well-equipped venue suitable for large gatherings, with comfortable climate control and clean facilities. It's particularly praised for hosting vibrant community events like the Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo and festive holiday markets. Some attendees note that seating can be uncomfortable for extended periods and wish for better stadium-style options.
"I attended a graduation ceremony at the Extraco Events Center in Waco, and overall it was a great experience. The venue is spacious and worked well for a large gathering. The sound and lighting were excellent, and the temperature inside was comfortable—not too hot and not too cold. The bathrooms were also clean and well-maintained, which I appreciated. My only wish is that the center offered some sort of stadium seating or bleachers, as it would have made it easier for everyone to see the stage. Otherwise, it’s a very good venue for big events."
Laura G
"Went to a graduation at the out building. Nice facility and plenty of parking if you don't mind walking. Limited disabled parking. The event hall was big enough for hundreds of grads. The climate control was good and it was comfortable in there. Can't say much for the seating. The usual hard wood folders packed tight that makes your butt go numb after an hour. The husky guy next to me was half in my seat, but overall, was a nice place for a graduation."
Gary Alleccia
"Came here for the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo.
Brought 4 German Tourists and Wow they loved every minute of this.
Absolutely worth every penny.
Only wished I knew my Rodeo tickets get you thru the Gates for the Fair, that would have saved us $50?
My only complaint.
Every aspect of the Rodeo was exciting and the breaks between events was entertaining with light shows and music.
This place rocks!
Good job Extraco Events Center Staff also for helping German foreigners find their seats.
Good staff.
Highly recommend this event.
Come here people!"
Tomas Maybach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Extraco Events Center is located at 4601 Bosque Blvd, Waco, TX 76710. It's easily accessible via major highways. Many visitors use GPS or mapping apps to find the most direct route.
Public transportation options to the Extraco Events Center may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services. Check local Waco transit schedules for current routes.
The center offers ample parking, but it can fill up quickly during popular events like the Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo. Arriving early is advised.
Parking fees can vary depending on the event. For some events like the Mid-Tex Farm and Ranch Show, parking is free.
For others, like the Heart of Texas Fair, there might be a fee.The Extraco Events Center has multiple entrances, including 'The BASE' building. Event-specific signage will usually direct you to the correct entrance on the day of your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically purchased directly through the event organizer's website or at the venue's box office on the day of the event. For North Pole Palooza, tickets are available at www.NorthPoleWaco.com.
Discounts can vary by event. For example, the Central Texas Comic Con offered a flash sale and free admission for children 8 and under.
Keep an eye on event websites for early bird specials or group rates.For many events, tickets are available for purchase at the door. However, for popular events like North Pole Palooza, it's recommended to buy in advance to secure your spot.
Re-entry policies vary by event. It's best to check with the specific event organizer or venue staff upon arrival if you anticipate needing to leave and return.
Age restrictions depend entirely on the event. For family-friendly events like North Pole Palooza, all ages are welcome.
For others, like concerts or specific competitions, there might be age limits.🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The center hosts a wide variety of events, including concerts, sporting events (like rodeos and barrel races), trade shows, expos, holiday markets, and family carnivals.
Seating varies by event. Some events may have general admission, while others offer assigned seating. Reviews mention standard hard seating that can be uncomfortable for long periods.
Food and drink options are typically available at most events, especially fairs and carnivals. The North Pole Palooza features a candy store.
The Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo has a Wine & Beer Garden.The venue is generally accessible, but specific accommodations like limited disabled parking have been noted.
Contact the event organizer for specific accessibility needs.The climate control is generally good, keeping the venue comfortable during events, whether it's hot or cold outside.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary by event. For most public events like fairs and markets, personal photography is usually allowed.
However, professional photography or flash photography might be restricted for certain performances or competitions. Always check event guidelines.For holiday events, the decorated areas of North Pole Palooza offer festive backdrops.
During fairs, the carnival rides and general atmosphere provide great photo opportunities.Drone usage is typically prohibited at public venues like the Extraco Events Center due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to assume drones are not allowed unless explicitly permitted by event organizers.
Many visitors capture photos of the festive holiday decorations during North Pole Palooza, the excitement of the Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo, and the unique crafts at various shopping events.
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially in crowded areas or during performances. It's advisable to use a monopod or handheld setup for flexibility. Check event-specific rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning a family visit, consider checking the event schedules for specific kid-focused activities or entertainment. For carnivals, keep in mind that evening events might be overwhelming for younger children who haven't napped, as one reviewer noted. The general atmosphere at most events is welcoming to families, making it easy to create lasting memories.
🛍️ Shoppers & Market Enthusiasts
When attending these shopping events, it's wise to check the specific dates and times, as they are often held on weekends or for limited durations. The BASE building at the Extraco Events Center is a common location for these markets. Be prepared for a bustling atmosphere, especially during peak hours, and enjoy discovering the diverse offerings from local vendors.
🐎 Equestrian Event Attendees
For competitors, ensure you have all necessary documentation and arrive with ample time for setup. Spectators can enjoy thrilling competitions and a unique atmosphere. The venue's convenient location and ample parking for trailers are significant advantages for those traveling with horses.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Spectacles: Holiday Events
When attending these events, remember that popular times can get crowded. For North Pole Palooza, booking ice skating sessions in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. The holiday markets, while bustling, offer a fantastic way to experience local culture and find one-of-a-kind items. The atmosphere at these events is generally cheerful and family-friendly, making them a great addition to any Waco itinerary.
Equestrian Excellence: Horse Events
For those involved in or attending equestrian events, the venue offers convenient parking for horse trailers and easy access from major highways. The presence of both indoor and outdoor arenas provides flexibility for different types of competitions and training. Visitors often remark on the welcoming atmosphere and the dedication of the staff to making events run smoothly. Whether you're a competitor or an observer, the Extraco Events Center provides a professional and enjoyable environment for all things equestrian.
Community Gatherings: Fairs, Rodeos & Expos
Beyond the fair and rodeo, the center hosts various expos and markets throughout the year. These can range from home product shows and farm & ranch expos to specialized markets like the Texas Market Guide, offering everything from handcrafted goods to gourmet foods. These events are great for discovering local businesses and unique finds. For specific events like the Central Texas Comic Con, attendees can look forward to special sales and family-friendly activities. The versatility of the Extraco Events Center allows it to cater to a broad spectrum of community interests, making it a dynamic venue for diverse gatherings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit