Every January for the last 110 years, one of the world’s premier Western exhibitions has drawn spectators from across the country to the National Western Complex in Denver. The National Western Stock Show is a 16-day event filled with entertainment and excitement, and it’s one of the most popular events that will happen all year. Here’s why:
#5: You can shop ‘til you drop, western style.
The National Western Stock Show is Colorado’s largest Western trade show. What does that mean for you, the non-equestrian? To put it plainly, it means that you can expect to bring home a car load of unique western gear. This year’s vendor list includes everything from rodeo-inspired fashion to rustic home décor, so it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll find something you have to have.
#4: You can spend a day doing something the whole family will love.
This event has something to offer everyone, regardless of age group or personal preference. If you’re looking for kids’ activities, you’re going to love how many options are available for the 12 and under crowd. Are you the artsy type? If so, be sure to check out the Coors Western Art Exhibit and Sale. Others might like tasting something just a little bit different at the BBQ Throwdown or expanding their musical horizons at the Colorado Fiddle Championships. Whatever you decide to do while you’re there, you can be sure that you’re going to enjoy yourself.
#3: You’ll learn everything there is to know about livestock.
Attending The National Western Stock Show means that you will be among some of the greatest minds in the agriculture and livestock industry. It’s a rare and exciting opportunity to learn about and support our local resources. If you want to get a head start, hop over to the show’s online “Rodeo 101”. There, you’ll learn about some of the show’s biggest events and how they are scored.
#2: The events are like nothing you’ll experience anywhere else.
One word: dressage. If you’ve never sat in the audience of one of these awe-inspiring performances, now is your chance. Don’t miss An Evening of Dancing Horses®, which brings together world-class equestrian talent and live music provided by Denver Brass. Other must-see events include 9News Super Dogs, the Wild West Show, and the Pink Rodeo in support of breast cancer research.
The crown jewel of this entire affair, though, is the National Western Stock Show Kick-Off Parade. In terms of one-of-a-kind entertainment, it just doesn’t get any better than this. At what other time in your life will you see hundreds of Texas Longhorn cattle walking through Downtown Denver?
In addition to some very out-of-place livestock, other sights to see during the parade include marching bands, floats, horseback riders, and more. We also can’t forget the star of this year’s show: the 2016 Parade Grand Marshall will be Rich Karlis of the Denver Broncos. The parade starts at Union Station at noon on Thursday, January 7th and runs down 17th Street, and it sets the tone for the entire 16-day livestock show. It’s the kind of fun you’ll be talking about for days, so be sure to make it downtown to experience this iconic Colorado event for yourself.
#1: You’ll be supporting an incredibly important cause.
If you are the type of person who prefers for your entertainment dollars to also support a noble cause, then The National Western Stock Show is definitely for you. Every year, the proceeds from three major events are contributed to the organization’s Scholarship Trust, which provides financial support to students who are studying either agriculture, rural medicine, or veterinary science. These students are our very own future producers, and by supporting them, we are supporting the long-term interests of our local industries.
That statement is more than a mere generalization. The economic impact of this event has been measured, and studies have confirmed that The National Western Stock Show generates an average of about $100 Million for the state of Colorado every year. Can you imagine the effect this has on our local communities?
In fact, every aspect of this event ties back to a love of community and life’s simple pleasures, which is something that Boulder locals can certainly appreciate. The show begins on January 9, 2016, and runs through January 24, 2016. Mark your calendars, and make it out to Denver for The National Western Stock Show. You’ll be so glad you did.