When January rolls into Denver, so do the boots, the belt buckles, and the unmistakable buzz of the National Western Stock Show, a Colorado tradition since 1906. Part rodeo, part livestock extravaganza, part county-fair-meets-city-slicker-holiday, this iconic event draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to the National Western Complex and Denver Coliseum each year for an all-out celebration of Colorado’s agricultural roots.
Festivities officially kick off on January 8 at noon with a must-see parade, where downtown Denver is transformed into the ultimate Western destination. Dozens of longhorn cattle march through the streets of Denver, joined by horses, cowboys, cowgirls, tractors, marching bands, and floats. For one afternoon, the city trades business suits for bolo ties and becomes a full-blown Western movie set.
Once the parade dust settles, the real show begins with more than 20 professional rodeos, bringing in the best cowboys, cowgirls, bulls, broncos, and plenty of grit. Keep your eye out for the MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo and the Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza, as well as the horse jumping and barrel racing events.
Families flock to the Xtreme Dog Shows on January 18 and 19, where pups launch into aerial stunts, nail precision tricks, and ham it up for laughs. After the show, kids can meet the stars at the “Pat and Chat.”
A grounds admission ticket is your all access pass to everything else happening across the acres of the National Western Complex. Wander through endless shopping, watch stock dogs work, visit the petting farm, and cheer on pint sized mutton busters. Stop by the Coors Western Art gallery, explore the NW Nursery, and watch top tier livestock judging. Do not skip the Yards and the auctions either, where ranchers bring their best animals and young exhibitors get their shot in the spotlight.
The Stock Show wraps up on January 25, so grab your tickets at nationalwestern.com. Whether you’re a lifelong Coloradan or new to the Centennial State, the National Western Stock Show is the perfect way to kick off the New Year.