A Colorado tradition every January 6-21, 2018, the National Western Stock Show attracts more than 600,000 people each year. It is the premier livestock, rodeo, and horse show in the nation, but this event brings more to Denver than just cattle and horses. It’s full of family fun and events for all ages! You can visit nationalwestern.com for a full calendar listing, but here are few family friendly event highlights:
The Petting Farm
Located on the 3rd floor of the Expo Hall, come face to face with over 60 barnyard animals! The Petting Farm is presented by King Soopers and is FREE with your grounds admission ticket! Mini Sicilian donkeys, pygmy goats, and mini call ducks, make up the diverse group of friendly animals. Ice cream cones of food can be purchased for $3 at entry.
CSU Ag Adventure
This is the perfect place for children and adults to learn about the world of agriculture! Located on the 3rd floor of the Expo Hall and FREE of charge, you will have the opportunity to have a hands-on experience learning about the animal and crop production, and how we use them everyday lives. You don’t want to miss this interactive exhibit.
Hutchison Western Pony Trails Exhibit
Horse around in this exhibit that will teach you everything want to know about equine! Located in the Events Center Paddock next to the National Western Nursery and FREE of charge, the Hutchison Western Pony Trails exhibit is interactive, educational, and built with kids in mind! Learn how to measure a horse, the differences between English and Western disciplines, and even get a look at the Denver Mounted Patrol.
Pedal Tractor Races
Give your youngster the rare opportunity to ride their own John Deere tractor! Kids pedal their way through a fun filled obstacle course and race for the chance to be Champion!
Stick Horse Rodeo
The National Western Stick Horse Rodeo is perfect for your favorite buckaroos! Kids have the opportunity to create their own, pint-sized rodeo as they hop on a stick horse and compete in some of rodeo’s favorite events including barrel racing, steer roping and bull riding. Stick horse rodeos are a must for any future cowboy or cowgirl!
Top Hogs
Watch your favorite barnyard animals perform thrilling tricks, act out hysterical impressions and even ride a skateboard! Kids will have the exclusive opportunity to meet the brilliant pigs after the performance.
Farmyard Follies
This delightful show features the lovable critters from the famous Great American Petting Farm. A funny and educational animal entertainment show that features goats, sheep and llamas performing with the infamous trouble-making spotted donkey, Fiona-No-No. Hosted by one of the “Zoo Crew,” the show includes animal behavior and antics accompanied by fascinating facts and stories about each type of animal.
Dairy Discovery Zone
The Dairy Discovery Zone is a fun, interactive exhibit where you and your family can discover the world of dairy and how your milk gets from the farm to the fridge. From nutrition facts to mouthwatering recipes, your family will get to see what it’s like to milk a cow, test your farm strength and score cool freebies. Visit us in the South Food Court to see how milk gets from the farm to your fridge, play cheesy games, get a free backpack and even enter to win FREE MILK FOR A YEAR! Learn more at dairydiscoveryzone.com
Mutton Bustin’
One of the National Western’s most popular events, Mutton Bustin’ features children ages 5-7 and under 55 pounds riding sheep out of a chute and into the arena. Anything goes, and usually does, as contestants hold on as long as they can!
Fabulous Farm Animals
Presented by Children’s Farms of America, Fabulous Farm Animals is the perfect way for everyone young and old to learn about agriculture! This game show format will keep you entertained the entire time. Located in the Beef Palace Auction Arena, you can take in this awesome show during School Visit times: 10:00am and 11:00am daily Monday, January 8 – Friday, January 13.
Xtreme Dog Show
Dog lovers unite for a show full of tricks, stunts and unpredictable antics – all performed by man’s best friend! Trained to run, jump and retrieve at incredible speeds, this cast of canines will bark their way into your hearts and leave fans of all ages laughing and cheering throughout the entire show. This year, Xtreme Dogs is excited to feature Sara & Hero from American’s Got Talent. Sara & Hero placed fifth on AGT last season and will be showcasing their Vegas-style act at National Western Stock Show during both performances. You also can meet the Xtreme Dogs stars at the Pat & Chat following each performance.
Monday, January 15, 2018 | 3:00 p.m.
Tuesday, January 16, 2018 | 6:30 p.m.
Wild West Show
National Western’s Wild West Show highlights the color and pageantry of the Old West! Fans of all ages are sure to be entertained by their favorite Wild West legends, including Buffalo Bill, Annie Oakley and others. The show is full of quick draw antics and cowboy entertainment, painting the story of how the West was won. Patterned after the great Buffalo Bill shows of yesteryear, the Wild West Show features nonstop action that brings guests back to the original ways of the West.
Saturday, January 13, 2018 | 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, January 14, 2018 | 4:00 p. m.
Contest
Mile High Mamas is giving away four tickets to the Wild West Show on Sunday, January 14 at 4 p.m. You may enter as many as five times!
Author: Amber Johnson
Amber is the founder and editor of Mile High Mamas, travel writer and former columnist for The Denver Post. She is a passionate community builder and loves the outdoors. She has two awesome teens and is happily married to a man obsessed with growing The Great Pumpkin.
