The 120th annual National Western Stock Show (NWSS) in Denver kicks off on January 10, celebrating western culture with rodeos, horse shows, vendors, and family-friendly activities like mutton bustin’. The event draws around 700,000 attendees annually and features highlights such as the Kick-off Parade on January 8, free grounds admission on January 13, and the MLK Jr. African American Heritage rodeo on January 19, which this year partners with Black rodeo USA instead of the Bill Pickett Invitational rodeo. The Junior Livestock Auction on January 23 is a notable event where champion steers are showcased and sold.
This year also marks the first involvement of CSU Spur, offering educational experiences including live veterinary surgeries and equine therapy. The Stock Show grounds have expanded with the new Legacy Building housing the Coors Western Art Show and the Legacy Saloon, alongside the Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Livestock Center for auctions. While the modernization efforts aim to enhance the event, they have faced some criticism from the Denver Auditor’s Office. The Stock Show runs through January 25, providing a wide range of activities and cultural celebrations for visitors.
