It is that time of the year when Denverites and thousands of visitors enjoy rodeo performances, Mexican rodeos, bull riders, horse shows, livestock competitions, auctions and much more in Denver.
The National Western Stock Show has just begun. Also known as the “Super Bowl of Cattle Shows”, it is a much loved tradition that honors America’s rich Old West heritage. People come to Denver to buy, sell and see the finest in ranching stock during this amazing National Western Stock Show each year.
Every January the National Western Complex holds this world’s largest stock show which is getting bigger and better with each passing year. With more than 20,000 animals, shows, rodeos, auctions and booths selling the whole lot from cowboy boots to Native American jewelry, this National Western Stock Show has it all.
It all started in the early days of the 20th century, in 1906, when the first National Western Stock Show was held. It was a big hit from the start with a huge attendance estimating at 15,000. There were stockmen visiting from Chicago, Omaha, Kansas City and other eastern cities. By 1909, this mega event had attracted around 100,000 audiences. It was in 2008, that the National Western Stock Show made news all over with the biggest opening-day in history with an attendance estimated at 44,600 and the largest single-day attendance on January 19 with an attendance of 68,610.
This year the exclusive “Denver only” event celebrates its 106th year and festivities start from January 7 to 22. So, get hold of those cowboy boots of yours and head for the world’s leading and largest stock shows and rodeos, which has been a proud for Denver attractions more than a century. Here are some of the highlights of the events for you to note and enjoy:
National Western Stock Show Parade
Downtown Denver
Jan. 5
Enjoy this yearly display of a herd of Texas Longhorn cattle being driven through downtown Denver. The parade which begins at Union Station features marching bands, floats, horseback riders and performing cowgirls and cowboys. Highlight of 2012 parade is it’s grand marshal Penny Tweedy Chenery, who bred and managed the legendary thoroughbred Secretariat to the 1973 Triple Crown title.
PRCA Rodeo
Come and watch rodeo’s biggest superstars perform amazing feats of athleticism during each performance of professional rodeo. These rodeo events take place throughout the Stock Show.
Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza
Jan. 8, 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m
The Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza is a cultural spectacle that features bull riders and bareback riders, trick roping, mariachi and the daring Paso de la Muerte or “Death Jump”, an event that is thrilling and exciting!
An Evening of Dancing Horses
Jan. 18-19, 7:30 p.m.
An event that will delight even the most astute horse enthusiast. An Evening of Dancing Horses is all about dressage, drill elements, freestyle reining and plenty more equestrian disciplines. What best is that it is all choreographed to the music of the Denver Brass.
Wild West Show
Jan. 14, 5 p.m., Jan. 15, 4 p.m.
Experience how the West was won when Calamity Jane, Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley rode into the Events Center during two Wild West Shows. Inspired by the great Buffalo Bill shows of the olden days, this show features nonstop action including a six-horse stagecoach holdup, dance hall girls and a moving tribute to the American Indian.
Martin Luther King, Jr. African-American Heritage Rodeo
Jan. 16.
It’s an event where black cowboys and cowgirls headline the National Western’s Martin Luther King, Jr. African-American Heritage Rodeo. Superstar rodeo athletes compete in many traditional rodeo events.
Hence if you live in Denver or visiting or then there is no reason for you to miss out on this mega event of the year!
