The Fort Worth Stock Show Rodeo officially kicks off on Friday, marking the start of a 23‑day celebration of Western heritage, agriculture, and community pride that has defined the city for 129 years. Organizers expect more than 1.2 million visitors to pass through the grounds between Jan. 16 and Feb. 7, as crowds take in everything from daily rodeo performances to live music, livestock competitions, shopping, and family‑friendly attractions. Fort Worth Stock Show Rodeo President and General Manager Matt Carter says it’s that blend of tradition and community that keeps the event thriving after more than a century. “We really feel like this is what makes Fort Worth authentic. It makes it where the West begins. We have a wonderful city, wonderful partners in the mayor and the city council. It’s really amazing,” he said. One of the biggest changes this year is the debut of updates inside the historic Will Rogers Coliseum, which turns 90 years old this year. The renovation is part of a larger $50 million project to improve the entire Will Rogers Memorial Center ahead of its 100th birthday in 2036. Carter said a major goal was to modernize the building without losing its iconic character. “The renovation is a public-private partnership with the Fort Worth Stock Show and our wonderful partners at the city of Fort Worth. We really tried to take a lot of care to renovate it, but also maintain the history and the character that’s in this building. I mean, this building is really the Fenway Park of the Western sports industry,” he said. The upgraded concourse will host several events this year, including the new College Rodeo Finals. Fort Worth 5 hours ago How organizers prepare for the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo Fort Worth 5 hours ago What to eat at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo Fort Worth 4 hours ago Artwork at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo New Rodeos Debuting in 2026 This year adds two major competitions to the Stock Show lineup: The Pro Rodeo Rookie Rally on Jan. 22 features the top rookie athletes from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association competing for a $100,000 purse and a shot at qualifying for the Pro Rodeo Tournament. The event starts at 7:30 p.m. And for the FWSSR College Rodeo Finals on Feb. 4, collegiate athletes from across Texas – including Weatherford College and Tarleton State University – will compete for the inaugural title. The event takes place inside the Will Rogers Coliseum, and it’s the only ticketed session of the multi‑day collegiate competition. Both additions are expected to draw new audiences and spotlight rising talent in the sport. Events Returning for 2026 Fans will still find many of the rodeo’s most popular performances on the schedule, including: Best of the West Ranch Rodeo (Jan. 16–17) Best of Mexico Celebration (Jan. 18) Cowboys of Color Rodeo (Jan. 19) Texas High School Rodeo Shootout (Feb. 7) Each event highlights different aspects of Western sports and the diverse communities that define the region’s ranching and rodeo culture. Behind the scenes, the Stock Show relies on a massive volunteer force, many of whom have been involved for decades. Mike Micallef, owner of Reata at the Rodeo and longtime volunteer, says that’s one of the things that makes the event so special. “There are thousands of volunteers at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo,” Micallef said. “You might be out here, and somebody’s helping you unload the trailer… You may not know that guy’s the president of a bank or that woman is a lawyer. But we all come together to make this stock show happen.” He says the event pulls the entire city together over its 23‑day run. “I think this is the one event that really brings Fort Worth together. Everybody makes time to come out to the stock show,” Micallef said. Fort Worth 6 hours ago What's on the menu at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo? Fort Worth 5 hours ago Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo commemorative scarf Fort Worth 5 hours ago What to know when you head to the FWSSR TICKETS Rodeo tickets can be purchased online through the event’s website by clicking here. You can also buy through Ticketmaster here. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Dickies Arena box office or by phone by calling 817‑502‑0011. Most events still have tickets available in the middle and upper sections, and each rodeo ticket includes same‑day access to the Stock Show grounds. ...read more read less