The National Western Stock Show (NWSS) takes place annually in Denver, celebrating Western heritage, agriculture, and livestock. Running January 11 – 26, it draws attendees from all over the United States for its exciting mix of livestock competitions, rodeos, horse shows, and Western-themed exhibitions. A well-loved tradition since it began in 1906, this is one of the largest and most prestigious agricultural events in the county.
Rooted in the ranching and farming culture of the American West, the NWSS features a diverse array of activities for all ages and interests. Best known for its livestock competitions, this is a top destination for buyers, sellers, and livestock enthusiasts. Farmers showcase their best sheep, goats, and pigs, and beef cattle such as Angus or Hereford breeds are prominently featured. With specialized categories like market cattle, breeding stock, and showmanship, the NWSS has more than 12,000 head of livestock moving in and out of the gates each year.
There are several professional rodeo events at the NWSS including Colorado vs. the World Rodeo where Colorado rodeo champions compete against different rodeo champions from all over the world. The Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza features cultural pageantry and Mexican-style bull riding, bareback riding, trick roping, Mariachi music, side saddle girls, and the Portuguese-style bull fights.
The PBR Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour has top bull riders squaring off with the best 2,000-pound bucking culls in North America. These eight-second rides are action-packed and nerve-wracking creating a fun and exciting event. The First Responders Pro Rodeo features the Westernairs and takes place on January 22 at 7 p.m., while the Military Appreciation Rodeo is on January 21 at 7 p.m.
In addition to the rodeo, the Stock Show also features horse shows like the NWSS Grand Prix, a prestigious event with the top horses and riders from North America. Horse jumping requires a special relationship between the horse and rider so they trust each other and can work together as a team. A big draw is the $40,000 in prize money, making for a fun event to watch.
The Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale is another major highlight, featuring stunning Western-themed art from top artists. The gallery exhibition is held in conjunction with the NWSS showcasing one of the nation’s most impressive collections of contemporary Western art. With a diverse array of styles and mediums such as “Echoes of the Past” an oil painting by artist Jeremy Winborg. “Primary Concerns,” acrylic on canvas by artist Starr Hardridge or “Big Gun,” also oil on canvas by Thomas Blackshear.
This year’s Featured Artist is Duke Beardsley who has been drawing and Paingint the American West since childhood. Trained at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA, he now lives and works in Denver. His work has been featured in prestigious publications such as Southwest Art Magazine, Cowboys & Indians, Western Horseman, Robb Report, and The Denver Post. He is the recipient of the Colorado Governor’s Art Award and his work was selected as the 2013 Calgary Stampede commemorative poster.
The NWSS has an overall mission of supporting youth and education within the agricultural industry. Several events and programs allow youth to experience different aspects of the show from the horse show to Mutton Bustin.’ Vet101 is an educational program designed to give high school students interested in veterinary medicine an opportunity to spend a day with vets in a hands-on experience. National Western hosts more than 10,000 students, teachers, and parents each year through the School Visits Program, which is free of charge.
The NWSS in Denver is a time-honored tradition that offers a deep dive into the heart of the American West. Whether you’re interested in livestock, rodeo, agriculture, or Western art and culture, this iconic event provides an authentic experience for all ages.
For more detailed information, including the full schedule and ticketing details, visit the official National Western Stock Show website.