The National Western Stock Show is an annual livestock show and festival held every January at the National Western Complex in Denver, Colorado. It has been a Colorado tradition since 1906 and is considered the world's largest stock show by the number of animals exhibited
. The event lasts 16 days and features a wide range of activities including:
- Livestock competitions and auctions showcasing nearly 20 breeds of cattle and other animals such as sheep, swine, goats, llamas, alpacas, bison, and more
- Professional rodeos with top bull riders, barrel racers, and other rodeo athletes, including the MLK Jr African American Heritage Rodeo and the Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza with Mexican-style bull riding and mariachi music
- Horse shows with prestigious jumping competitions like the Grand Prix and Gambler’s Choice, as well as events for Quarter Horses, Paint Horses, Hunters & Jumpers, mules, and draft horses
- Family-friendly activities such as stock dog competitions, mutton busting, petting farms, and the Xtreme Dogs show featuring tricks and aerial stunts by dogs
- The Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale, highlighting western-themed paintings, photography, and sculptures by local and international artists
- A large Western trade show with shopping for cowboy boots, cookware, and other western goods
The Stock Show is also a major economic driver for Denver and Colorado, generating over $100 million in economic impact during the event
. Beyond entertainment, the National Western Stock Show supports agricultural education and rural communities through the National Western Scholarship Trust, which awards scholarships to students studying agriculture and medicine in Colorado and Wyoming
. Overall, the National Western Stock Show is a premier event celebrating western heritage, agriculture, and livestock, drawing over 660,000 visitors from across the U.S. and internationally each year
. In summary, the National Western Stock Show is a 16-day January event in Denver featuring livestock exhibitions, rodeos, horse shows, western art, family activities, and agricultural education, making it a cornerstone of western culture and agriculture in the U.S.
