National Western Stock Show
January 10-25, 2026
A Colorado Tradition since 1906
This annual event draws more than 700,000 people to Denver to celebrate Colorado’s legacy of livestock rearing, agriculture, and stewardship of Western tradition.
Throughout the event, you’ll find the College of Agricultural Sciences showcasing the research and work of our students and faculty.
Find the College of Agricultural Sciences At National Western Stock Show
Future cowboy: CSU at the 2026 National Western Stock Show
Produced by SOURCE, this January Special Report highlights CSU longstanding involvement at Stock Show, emerging technologies in the beef industry, and the “Future Cowboy” event. This Special Report delves into traits that define future cowboys and cowgirls – the qualities at the center of the state’s cherished Western lifestyle – and provides examples of CSU innovations that will help carry those attributes further into the 21st century.
Campus Tours – Fort Collins
Visiting the National Western Stock Show this January? Experience Colorado State University on campus in Fort Collins! Join us an hour north of Denver for tours of our main campus facilities and our research farm. Fill out our interest survey, and we’ll reach out to schedule a time for you and your group. Tour dates and times:
Nutrien Agricultural Sciences Building — 301 University Ave.
- Jan 12-15, 9 – 10:15 a.m. and 1 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
- Jan 20 and 22, 8-9:15 a.m., 10-11:15 a.m., 12-1:15 p.m.
CSU Agricultural Research, Development and Education Center — CoBank Center, 4492 E County Rd 56
- Jan 2, 14, and 16: 10-11:30 am
- Jan. 20 and 22: 10-11:30 am, 12-1:30 pm, 2-3:30 pm
Ag Adventure
Jan. 10-25, Hall of Education Ground Level
An agricultural education exhibit focused on telling the story of food, for all ages! All are invited! Open to the public, a collaboration of the National Western Stock Show, CSU, and various commodity organizations from around the state that represent Colorado producers.
- Ag Adventure Schedule:
- Sunday-Thursday: 9 am – 7 pm
- Friday-Saturday: 9 am – 8 pm
- CAM’s Classroom (Inside of Ag Adventure) Schedule:
- Monday, Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
- Tuesday-Friday: 10 am – 5 pm *School Tour Days*
- Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm
Public Engagement and Student Recruitment
Jan 10-25, Hall of Education Ground Level
College of Agricultural Sciences student leaders will be representing agricultural sciences at Colorado State University as NWSS attendees pass by the booth over the course of 16 days.
Seedstock Merchandising Team
Jan 10-16, NWSS Yards
CSU’s Seedstock Merchandising Team will continue to learn by doing as they exhibit and promote CSU raised Hereford cattle in The Yards. Open to the public. Typically, we will see cattlemen and women, fellow exhibitors, stakeholders, alumni and general public.
Supreme Junior Heifer Drive
Jan 10-24
Launching in 2026, the National Western Stock Show Supreme Junior Heifer Drive brings together junior breed champions from 15 associations to compete for over $54,500 in scholarships and awards — an investment that will grow to $100,000 in future years. Colorado State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Office of Engagement and Extension are proud to sponsor this inaugural event, which will take place January 24 during the PRCA semi-finals.
Stockmen in the Stockyards: The Role of Imports and Exports in the Beef Industry
Jan 10, 10 am – 3 pm, Stockyards Event Center Wagner Equipment Auction Arena
In partnership with Colorado’s leading livestock organizations, the College of Agricultural Sciences will lead an event about the impact of global trade on Colorado’s beef industry, offering industry-led insights for Stock Show audiences. Sponsored by CSU, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Colorado Livestock Association and Colorado Beef Council.
- 10 am: Kickoff by Sponsors
- 10:15 am: Overview of Today’s Cattle Markets – Tyler Cozzens, Livestock Marketing Information Center
- 11 am: Planning for the future in this market – Dr. Steve Koontz, CSU Department of Agricultural & Resource Economics
- 11:45 am: Q&A
- 12 pm: Lunch – Sponsored by CCA
- 1 pm: Welcome to Afternoon Session
- 1:10 pm: International Markets – U.S. Meat Export Federation
- 2 pm: Producer Panel – CCA, CLA, and CBC board members, moderated by CSU
- 2:45 pm: Wrap-up with Sponsors
Livestock Leader Reception
Jan 17, 5-6:30 pm, CSU Spur, Hydro Lobby
An annual award to honor an outstanding individual in the livestock industry. Presented by the Department of Animal Sciences. 2025 honorees are Jim Gibb and Gary Carpenter. Register to attend and learn more about CSU Livestock Leaders.
Future Cowboy
Jan 25, 1-6 pm, CSU Spur Vida Building Arena
A bold celebration of the role of cattle in food, fashion, and the circular economy. This one-of-a-kind event fuses culinary creativity, fashion innovation, ag technology, and sustainability science into an unforgettable afternoon that invites you to rethink what it means for ranchers, foodies, and fashionistas to honor our cattle with technology and tradition.
Denim & Diamonds | Rodeo Gala
Jan 16, 6-10 pm, CSU Spur Vida Building Arena
Saddle Up for an evening of Western charm and sparkle as we celebrate and support our CSU rodeo athletes. The CSU Rodeo Team is a nationally recognized program that develops student-athletes in rodeo competition, leadership, and sportsmanship. Through dedication, training, and teamwork, these students carry on the rich Western heritage of Colorado while representing CSU at competitions across the country.
Equine Sciences Exhibit Booth
Jan 10-25, Pony Trails, Hall of Education Ground Level
Visitors to the Equine Sciences booth can explore program materials and experience the Temple Grandin Equine Center firsthand through an interactive mechanical-horse activity for youth. The booth is open daily during the Stock Show, except Monday, Jan 13.
More About NWSS
From rodeos and livestock shows, educational displays and art exhibits, the NWSS highlights everything that makes the West, and agriculture, such an essential part of the Colorado experience.