As the anticipation builds for the highly awaited return of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at the Thomas & Mack Center, rodeo fans are in for a treat with an array of exciting entertainment options both before and after each thrilling rodeo performance. Renowned as the world’s most prestigious and lucrative rodeo event, the Wrangler NFR is scheduled from Thursday, December 7, to Saturday, December 16.
To ensure convenient travel, enthusiasts can opt for the complimentary NFR Express Shuttle Bus service, available from 26 sponsor hotel properties and The Cowboy Channel Cowboy Christmas. Upon arrival, visitors will be immersed in a vibrant rodeo-themed atmosphere, extending from the outdoor grounds to the interior of the venue.
On the outskirts of the Thomas & Mack Center, the ProRodeo Zone awaits, offering PRCA sponsor-activation tents, live music, and an energetic ambiance. As fans make their way towards the entrance, they will pass through the lively StubHub Fan Zone, encompassing additional sponsor tents, the official ProRodeo and Wrangler NFR merchandise trailer, as well as a delectable assortment of food and beverage choices. Video screens and communal tables provide a perfect setting for attendees to gather and enjoy the festivities.
Amplifying the excitement, two outdoor video boards fixed on the arena’s façade will broadcast captivating Wrangler NFR moments, engaging highlight reels, interactive content, and compelling contestant interviews.
Upon stepping inside the building, one of the venue’s main highlights is the 36,000-square-foot hospitality area situated at the northwest end of the arena. A brand-new addition, the Cowboy Channel Bar, will feature a saloon and a 2,500-square-foot, glass-enclosed balcony with panoramic Strip views. The Cowboy Channel will host the NFR Pre-Show at 5 p.m. and the NFR Post-Show immediately following each night’s performance. Visitors can also delve into the rich history of the NFR in Las Vegas at an all-encompassing exhibit. Access to The Cowboy Channel Bar is open to all fans holding a Wrangler NFR ticket for the evening’s performance and will include the live broadcast of the rodeo, displayed on a large projection screen.
Simultaneously, on the arena’s southeast side, opposite The Cowboy Channel Bar, the returning Cowboy Corral promises a vibrant and engaging experience. Taking over the adjacent Cox Pavilion, it offers live music, a spacious bar, and ample seating for relaxation and enjoyment. The lively entertainment lineup includes pre and post-event performances by Will Jones (Dec. 7-9), Mae Estes (Dec. 10-11), Old Hickory (Dec. 12-14), and Wyatt McCubbin (Dec. 15-16). Doors open at 4 pm, with live music commencing at 4:45 pm.
Adjacent to the Cowboy Corral lies the Bull & Barrel Saloon, boasting its own bar and food service, along with the Hall of Champions, paying tribute to former NFR champions.
As the evening progresses, the entertainment continues to captivate the audience. Before each performance, an opening act will set the stage, followed by the stirring rendition of the National Anthem. The spotlight will then shift to the arena, where the world’s best contestants will showcase their extraordinary skills, vying for the prestigious Gold Buckle, the ultimate symbol of triumph.
Drawing in the top 15 contestants across various disciplines, including bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and bull riding, the Wrangler NFR offers a heightened purse and the sought-after PRCA Gold Buckle. In the previous year, the event witnessed a total attendance of 173,350 over the 10-day span at the Thomas & Mack Center and has continuously sold out more than 350 consecutive performances in Las Vegas.
For further details about the Wrangler NFR, please visit NFRexperience.com or follow the event on social media at @LasVegasNFR, using the hashtag #WranglerNFR. For the latest updates on ProRodeo news and comprehensive Wrangler NFR coverage, visit prorodeo.com or engage on social media via @PRCA_ProRodeo.
