Every year in January, Fort Worth, Texas, becomes the heart of cowboy country. From January 19 to February 10, 2024, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR) welcomed thousands of visitors for three weeks of livestock showcases, rodeo competitions, and family-friendly events at the Will Rogers Memorial Center and Dickies Arena.
Founded in 1896, the FWSSR is the oldest continuously running livestock show and rodeo in the United States. What began as a modest gathering of local ranchers has grown into one of the most respected agricultural showcases in the country, attracting participants and spectators from across the nation.
Why This Rodeo Still Matters
While rodeos and Western events are celebrated throughout the U.S., the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo holds a special place in the American cultural landscape. It not only showcases elite-level rodeo talent but also supports agricultural education, rural development, and youth engagement.
Every year, the show awards millions of dollars in scholarships and grants to students pursuing careers in animal science, veterinary medicine, agribusiness, and related fields. These initiatives help foster the next generation of agricultural leaders and ensure the continued relevance of farming and ranching in a rapidly urbanizing society.
Beyond the economic benefits, the FWSSR serves as a living classroom. Families, school groups, and tourists alike get a hands-on introduction to where food comes from, the care involved in animal husbandry, and the science behind modern agriculture.
Livestock and Legacy
At its core, the FWSSR is a livestock show of immense scale. Cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and other animals are exhibited by youth competitors, breeders, and producers hoping to earn top honors or sell their livestock at auction. These events are judged with professional standards and offer a platform for showcasing superior genetics and sustainable practices.
In addition to traditional showings, the FWSSR hosts numerous educational seminars and trade exhibits. These events bring together industry experts, technology providers, and producers to exchange knowledge on everything from feed innovation to livestock health management.
Rodeo Highlights at Dickies Arena
The rodeo component of the FWSSR is no less impressive. Held in the 14,000-seat Dickies Arena, the competition spans multiple weeks and features elite cowboys and cowgirls competing in events such as:
- Bull Riding
- Barrel Racing
- Team Roping
- Steer Wrestling
- Bareback and Saddle Bronc Riding
Each event combines precision, strength, and sheer bravery, captivating audiences young and old. The high-energy performances and real stakes keep crowds returning year after year.
One signature event, the Texas Champions Challenge, brings together the top talent from rodeos across the state, while the Best of the West Ranch Rodeo pays homage to working cowboys and the ranching lifestyle.
A Festival of Western Heritage
Outside the arenas and barns, the FWSSR transforms Fort Worth into a hub of Western heritage. The event opens with the All Western Parade, a downtown spectacle of marching bands, horses, and historic wagons.
Throughout the grounds, guests can enjoy a classic midway with carnival rides, artisan vendors, live music performances, and food options ranging from smoked brisket to handmade churros. There’s also a petting zoo and interactive displays that invite children to learn about agriculture in a fun, approachable way.
More Than a Show—A Cultural Touchstone
In an era when fewer Americans have direct ties to agriculture, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo remains an essential bridge between rural and urban communities. It provides a forum for understanding the value of farm life, the importance of sustainable food systems, and the cultural richness of the American West.
The event also boosts the local economy, bringing in an estimated $100 million annually through tourism, hospitality, and retail.
Whether you’re a fourth-generation rancher or a first-time visitor, the FWSSR offers something unique: a chance to step into a world where tradition, innovation, and community spirit ride side by side.
