National Finals Rodeo
2026

NFR 2026 Competition Events

The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo features seven traditional rodeo events sanctioned by the PRCA, with nine world championships awarded. Each event tests different skills and partnerships between human and animal:

• Bareback Riding: Riders grip a leather rigging while an unbroke horse bucks wildly for 8 seconds
• Steer Wrestling: Cowboys leap from horseback to wrestle a 500-pound steer to the ground
• Team Roping: Header and heeler work together to rope a steer in the fastest time (two titles awarded)
• Saddle Bronc Riding: The classic rodeo event requires balance and rhythm on a bucking horse
• Tie-Down Roping: Speed and precision combine as ropers catch and tie calves
• Barrel Racing: WPRA competitors guide horses through a cloverleaf pattern at top speed
• Bull Riding: The most dangerous eight seconds in sports pits rider against 2,000-pound bulls

Thomas & Mack Center: Home of the NFR

Located on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus, the Thomas & Mack Center has hosted the National Finals Rodeo since 1985. The arena transforms into a rodeo venue each December with over 2,000 tons of special dirt trucked in, along with 700 head of livestock and more than 300 bucking horses and bulls. The 18,000-seat venue provides an intimate atmosphere where fans feel connected to every ride and run.

For official venue information, visit the Thomas & Mack Center website.

NFR Experience: Beyond the Arena

The National Finals Rodeo transforms Las Vegas into a Western celebration. Cowboy Christmas at the Las Vegas Convention Center offers the world's largest Western gift show, running concurrently with NFR. Hotels throughout the city host watch parties, concerts featuring country music stars, and special events. From downtown Fremont Street to the Strip, cowboy boots and hats become standard attire as nearly 200,000 fans visit over the ten-day event.

Learn more about surrounding events at NFRExperience.com and follow ProRodeo.com for official PRCA news.

How NFR Qualifying Works

Cowboys and cowgirls earn their spot at the NFR through the PRCA regular season standings. From January through September, competitors accumulate prize money at sanctioned rodeos across North America. The top 15 money-winners in each event at season's end punch their ticket to Las Vegas. Some athletes qualify in multiple events, competing twice nightly for additional prize money and all-around championship points.

NFR 2026 Prize Money

Under the landmark PRCA-Las Vegas Events agreement, NFR prize money continues to increase annually. The 2025 purse exceeded $17.5 million, with approximately $13.5 million paid to contestants and over $4 million distributed to stock contractors. Each go-round winner earns over $30,000, while average winners (best cumulative time/score over ten rounds) claim nearly $80,000 per event. World champions often leave Vegas with six-figure paydays on top of their season earnings.

Planning Your NFR 2026 Trip

Las Vegas hotels fill quickly during NFR week, with South Point Hotel & Casino serving as a popular headquarters for rodeo fans. Book accommodations early for the best rates and availability. Evening performances at Thomas & Mack Center typically begin at 5:45 PM, allowing time for dinner and exploration before the action starts.

National Finals Rodeo 2026 FAQ

When is the National Finals Rodeo 2026?

The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo 2026 is expected to take place December 3-12, 2026. The NFR is traditionally held during the first full week of December, with ten consecutive nights of competition. Official dates are confirmed by the PRCA and Las Vegas Events each year.

Where is NFR 2026 located?

NFR 2026 takes place at the Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus in Las Vegas, Nevada. The arena is located at 4505 South Maryland Parkway. The NFR has called Las Vegas home since 1985 and will remain there through at least 2035 under the current contract.

What time do NFR performances start?

NFR performances typically begin at 5:45 PM Pacific Time each evening. Doors open approximately two hours before showtime, allowing fans to find their seats and enjoy pre-show activities including the grand entry of contestants.

How can I buy National Finals Rodeo 2026 tickets?

NFR 2026 tickets are available through our verified resale marketplace. We connect fans with trusted sellers offering authentic tickets at competitive prices. Our all-inclusive pricing shows the complete cost upfront, with no hidden fees added during checkout. All purchases include buyer protection.

How much do NFR tickets cost?

NFR ticket prices vary by performance date and seat location. Opening night and the final Saturday typically command premium prices, while mid-week performances may offer more affordable options. Prices range from approximately $100 for upper-level seats to several hundred dollars for premium lower-bowl locations.

What events are included in the National Finals Rodeo?

The NFR features seven events: bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, WPRA barrel racing, and bull riding. All events are contested each night, with the top 15 qualifiers in each discipline competing for go-round prizes and world championships.

How long does an NFR performance last?

Each NFR performance typically lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The program includes all seven events, a grand entry ceremony, specialty acts, and entertainment between events. The pacing keeps fans engaged throughout the evening.

Can I attend multiple nights of NFR?

Yes, many devoted fans attend multiple performances throughout the ten-day event. Each night features the same events but different matchups between contestants and livestock, creating unique competition every performance. Multi-night attendance allows fans to follow developing championship races.

Is there parking at Thomas & Mack Center?

Thomas & Mack Center offers self-parking on the UNLV campus. Parking availability and fees vary by event. Due to high demand during NFR, many fans opt for rideshare services, taxis, or hotel shuttles to avoid parking challenges.

What is Cowboy Christmas at NFR?

Cowboy Christmas is the world's largest Western gift show, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center concurrently with NFR. The free-admission event features hundreds of vendors selling Western wear, artwork, home goods, tack, and unique gifts. It runs daily throughout the NFR schedule.

How are world champions determined at NFR?

World champions are determined by total earnings throughout the entire PRCA season, including all ten NFR rounds. Contestants enter Vegas with earnings accumulated from January through September, then add NFR prize money. The athlete with the highest total in each event claims the world title.

What should I wear to NFR?

Western attire is traditional but not required at NFR. Most attendees embrace the occasion with cowboy boots, hats, and Western fashion. The arena is climate-controlled, so dress comfortably for an indoor event lasting several hours.

Is NFR broadcast on television?

Yes, all NFR performances are broadcast live on The Cowboy Channel. Streaming is available through Cowboy Channel+ for fans who want to watch from home. The broadcasts feature comprehensive coverage of all events plus behind-the-scenes content.

Are there age restrictions for NFR?

The National Finals Rodeo is a family-friendly event suitable for all ages. Children under 2 typically enter free if sitting on an adult's lap. All other attendees require a ticket regardless of age.

What is the National Finals Breakaway Roping?

The National Finals Breakaway Roping (NFBR) is a separate championship event for women's breakaway ropers, held at South Point Arena two days before NFR begins. It crowns its own world champion and has become an exciting addition to the Las Vegas rodeo week celebrations.