Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, a legendary Texas tradition
Writer: Andrea Teran
January 2025 — Since 1896, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR) has been a cornerstone of Western heritage, and this year is expected to draw more than 1.2 million visitors to celebrate Texas’ rich agricultural and ranching traditions. With its signature rodeo competitions, livestock exhibitions, and family-friendly attractions, the Stock Show has grown into one of the most anticipated annual events in North Texas, contributing an estimated $115 million in direct expenditures to the region.
The 2025 Stock Show arrives at a pivotal moment, as the Will Rogers Memorial Center (WRMC), home to the event for decades, unveils renovations designed to enhance both exhibitor and visitor experiences. The newly revitalized Sheep and Swine Barns, originally built in 1948, have undergone a significant transformation, featuring upgraded lighting, improved air ventilation, and modern livestock washing stations. A key addition to this year’s show is the newly constructed Arena 1, a state-of-the-art facility that increases stalling capacity for sheep, goat, and swine competitions 41%, ensuring greater accessibility and comfort for participants.
These improvements were made possible through a $40 million investment, shared equally by the city of Fort Worth and FWSSR, with further improvements planned for Cattle Barns 3 and 4 in the next phase. Mayor Mattie Parker, who led the unveiling celebration, called the renovations a milestone that not only enhances the Stock Show experience but also strengthens the local economy. “This growth is about more than amenities — it’s about boosting our city’s economic impact, which already exceeds $217 million in direct activity annually,” Parker said.
The FWSSR continues to break records year after year. In 2024, more than 34,450 total entries were recorded, including all animals, judging teams and contest, with 12,048 junior show entries from 243 of Texas’ 254 counties. The Junior Sale of Champions shattered previous records, raising $8.2 million for Texas 4-H and FFA youth. Additionally, more than $1.2 million was awarded to rodeo athletes through the FWSSR PRORODEO Tournament, further solidifying the event’s reputation as a premier national competition. In non-traditional competitions, FWSSR saw remarkable growth, with over 2,068 art contest entries, 759 Ag Mechanics teams competing for $33,170 in premiums, and the rapidly expanding Jr. Ag Robotics contest, which grew from 40 teams in 2023 to 80 teams in 2024, awarding more than $20,000 in scholarships.
Alongside its classic rodeo events, the 2025 FWSSR brings exciting competitions. On January 21-22, the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Last Cowboy Standing event debuted at Dickies Arena. Featuring 40 of the world’s top bull riders, competitors will battle for a $100,000 purse, with $50,000 awarded to the champion in what is expected to be one of the most thrilling additions to the Stock Show lineup. On January 23, rodeo fans can experience Kid Rock’s Rock N Rodeo Qualifier, featuring five teams of rodeo professionals competing for a chance to advance to the championship event at AT&T Stadium later this year.
Live entertainment remains a cornerstone of the Stock Show experience, with a lineup featuring top-tier musical acts and comedy performances. Country music legend Clint Black will take the stage on January 23, while award-winning comedian Jim Gaffigan will perform multiple shows from January 30 through February 1. Additional highlights include performances by Aaron Lewis and the Stateliners on February 5 and rising country star Chris Janson on February 7.
Visitors planning to attend can choose from a variety of ticket options, ranging from general admission to exclusive packages that include access to concerts and rodeo performances. Parking is available at multiple locations around the WRMC complex, with shuttle services offered to key venues. Attendees are encouraged to dress in layers, as temperatures drop below freezing this week, though recent facility upgrades have improved indoor climate control for a more comfortable experience.
For more information, please visit:
https://www.fortworthtexas.gov
