Las Vegas and the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) are gearing up to commemorate 40 years of partnership from December 4 to 13. This prestigious event draws the top 15 contestants in various rodeo disciplines, including bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and bull riding, all vying for a share of an impressive $17.5 million purse.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, champions from 1985 will receive a special tribute on the opening night. Tim Keener, president of Las Vegas Events, emphasized the event’s enduring legacy, highlighting that it has sold out 369 consecutive performances at the Thomas & Mack Center on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus. Last year, the NFR drew a remarkable attendance of 170,045 over its 10 intense rounds of competition.
"Tickets are often passed down through generations," Keener noted. "It’s the hardest ticket in town, selling out as early as June and July. To ensure accessibility, we reserve a limited number of upper-level tickets for those who aren’t season ticket holders."
In addition to the main event, Las Vegas Events will host a variety of activities throughout NFR week, with at least 118 individual country-themed events and 29 viewing parties anticipated. Below are some of the event highlights:
Cowboy Christmas
Kicking off the festivities, the Cowboy Christmas will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center from December 4 to 13. With over 375 exhibitors, this free event, sponsored by Pro Fantasy Rodeo, will encompass 500,000 square feet filled with live music, Western wear, jewelry, art, crafts, and home goods. Notably, five additional gift shows will be staged throughout the city during the NFR.
For the second consecutive year, the Junior National Finals Rodeo will be held in a tent near the convention center, showcasing top youth contestants aged 19 and younger, celebrating its 10th anniversary.
Themed Entertainment
As part of the NFR opening celebrations, the Fremont Street Experience will host the Downtown Hoedown on December 3, featuring free performances from popular artists like Midland, Corey Kent, Josh Ross, and Mackenzie Carpenter.
Comedy enthusiasts can look forward to performances by Rodney Carrington and Steve Trevino at the David Copperfield Theater during the NFR week. Additionally, comedian Brian Regan will take the stage at the Palazzo Theatre on December 6, while social media sensation Matt Mathews performs the next night.
Country music lovers will not want to miss Wynonna Judd’s performances at the Venetian Theatre on December 5 and 6. Grammy-winning artist Tim McGraw will headline at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, performing on December 4, 6, 12, and 13. Other notable artists include Brad Paisley and Gary Allan, who will perform at Encore Theater on December 4-7, respectively.
Other Hot Spots
Resorts World will also feature upcoming performances by award-winning country singer Riley Green on December 12 and 13 at its newly renovated theater. The venue promises a celebration of rodeo culture with "Rodeo World," encompassing concerts, viewing parties, and a freestyle rodeo bullfighting tournament.
The Colter Wall and Friends tour will be hosted at BleauLive Theater at Fontainebleau Las Vegas on December 12 and 13. Fashion enthusiasts can attend a unique brunch and fashion show presented by Designer Rodeo Quincy on December 8.
Lastly, Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino will provide free live music every night at its Cabaret Theater and other exclusive NFR experiences and food and drink specials throughout the week.
With a diverse array of activities, the NFR in Las Vegas promises to be an unforgettable celebration for rodeo fans and visitors alike. For more information about events, tickets, and schedules, visit Las Vegas Events.
