Since 1906, The National Western Stock Show reigns supreme as one of Colorado’s most beloved events. What started as a conference to teach local stockmen new, healthy breeding and feeding techniques is now an almost month long affair that boasts rodeos and riding competitions, livestock auctions, and Colorado’s largest western trade show. 2019’s show kicks off Thursday, January 10 with a parade of riders, longhorn cattle, and western wagons down 17th street.
The stock show still functions as a place for education, training, and sale of livestock, but there is plenty to see and do as a weekend guest. A General Admission ticket will grant you access to the grounds and most of the events. However, a majority of the horse events and rodeos require a specialty ticket, which can be purchased in advance, here.
The National Western Stock Show has a lot to offer first time visitors and show veterans alike. To help you navigate the throngs of guests and get the most out of this time honored event, we’ve compiled a need to know guide for what is widely regarded as the Superbowl of Livestock Shows:
Rodeos
2019’s National Western Stock Show will host 20 Pro Rodeos over the course of the show. These rodeos showcase skilled cowboys and cowgirls from around the county in events like barrel racing, steer wrestling, bareback riding, and more. Select rodeos will showcase PBR Bull Riders braving the toughest of bulls while they compete on the 7th stop of the PBR Velocity Tour. Times vary – see schedule of all pro rodeo events here.
Horse Riding Events
From Grand Prix jumping events to formal dressage, the Stock Show’s equine inspired events will certainly entertain. These contests take place throughout the National Western Stock Show and the schedule of all horse competitions can be found here. The Draft Horse Show & Pull is another crowd favorite and fun for the whole family. Check out this show of strength and endurance on Friday, January 25 at 7 p.m.
Trade Show
This is a collection of vendors from around the country selling one-of-a-kind artisan wares. With around 900 vendor spaces, visitors will have the opportunity to browse and purchase farm equipment to jewelry, and everything in between. Booths are set up throughout the show, with main areas occupying the ‘Hall of Education’ and ‘The Coliseum’.
Livestock Exhibitions
While the fanfare around the livestock shows is more subdue than other events at the stock show – it’s nevertheless educational and interesting. In addition to conventional livestock events, there are a number of specialty breeds exhibited this year, including Bison, Alpaca, Yak, and more. These exhibitions take place throughout the stock show grounds, although a permanent schedule is not yet available.
The National Western Stock Show is one of Denver’s most anticipated events of the year. By bringing the agriculture industry to our sprawling metropolis, urban dwellers have the chance to learn a thing or two about farming, ranching, and everything in between.