The neonatal intensives care unit at Texas Children's Hospital recently put a Western spin on things, dressing its tiniest patients in cowboy hats and bandanas, much to the delight of Houstonians. The occasion is a rodeo-themed photoshoot celebrating the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo – a tradition, that's as big a part of the city’s culture as the live event itself. The heartwarming stunt aligned perfectly with the March festivities, which are slated to run through March 19th, according to Fox26 Houston.

With the local rodeo's reputation for being one of the world's most grandiose, it seems fitting that the nearby TCH's NICU, one of the largest globally, joined in on the fun. "Dressing up in your best western wear during the rodeo is a rite of passage for all Houstonians, even the tiniest ones!" Child Life Specialist Olivia Priolo Pigeon told PEOPLE. And it's more than just for kicks – Pigeon explains that such events offer "lasting legacies" for the families, offering a touch of normalcy amidst the stresses of hospital life.

Not one to miss a first experience, each infant got decked out in an adorable outfit provided by the hospital for the occasion with some of the infants even managing a smile for the camera. TCH has a history of suitably festooning its NICU babies for various seasonal events, from Halloween to Christmas where "oftentimes a staff member volunteers to dress up as Santa so the babies can get their first photo with the big guy!" as per an official hospital spokesperson.

This isn't the first time TCH has embraced the idea of involving their NICU patients in themed photoshoots, these costume sessions frequent the calendar, marking holidays and local happenings alike. Beyond the adorable factor, according to Priolo Pigeon, this practice helps to create positive memories for families and celebrates various milestones despite hospitalization.