The beloved tradition of live turtle racing at Little Woodrow’s officially begins its 2026 season on March 5, introducing an exciting new theme called TurtleVerse. This retro sci-fi experience promises to enhance the vibrant atmosphere at locations across Texas, including Houston, San Antonio, Lubbock, Austin, and Dallas-Fort Worth.
Starting at 7 or 8 p.m. each Thursday until November 19, the races will entertain attendees with a lively mix of competition and community spirit. Little Woodrow’s, a neighborhood bar known for its energetic environment since its establishment in 1995, invites fans to cheer for their favorite turtles, each with unique names and personalities that add to the excitement.
Locations participating in the racing tradition include the Midtown and Webster bars in Houston, which are currently in their 18th and second seasons, respectively. San Antonio’s Stone Oak location is celebrating its 10th season, while Lubbock enters its sixth. Austin’s Southpark Meadows location marks its fourth season, and a new Frisco location in Dallas-Fort Worth is set to join the fun when it opens this spring.
Ray Risley, President of Woody’s Brands, emphasized the significance of turtle racing, stating, “Turtle Racing is our most beloved tradition, and for 2026, we wanted to take it up a notch.” The TurtleVerse theme aims to evoke nostalgia while incorporating an element of absurdity that resonates with both regulars and newcomers alike.
This year, Little Woodrow’s is also introducing the Turtle Journey loyalty program. This initiative encourages fans to return weekly by allowing them to check in, earn points, and redeem rewards throughout the racing season.
The 2026 roster of turtle racers includes fan favorites like Turtle Swift, Shellvester Stallone, Timothée Shellamet, and Slow Rogan, all of whom add a layer of entertainment with their backstories and ongoing rivalries.
With a legacy that began nearly two decades ago, turtle racing has become a hallmark of Texas nightlife. Each Thursday night, the races attract a diverse crowd, drawn not only by the spectacle of the race but by the community that has formed around it.
For those interested in joining the fun, more information about the full racing schedule, turtle biographies, and the loyalty program can be found at littlewoodrows.com/turtle-racing.
As the excitement builds for the new season, Little Woodrow’s continues to solidify its place as a leader in unique bar entertainment, blending tradition with innovative themes that keep patrons coming back for more.
