National Finals Rodeo

Frequently Asked Questions

What events are in the national rodeo finals?

The National Finals Rodeo (NFR) features ten main events that showcase the best talents in professional rodeo. These events include Bareback Riding, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping (Header and Heeler), Saddle Bronc Riding, Tie-Down Roping, Barrel Racing, and Bull Riding. Each event tests the skill, strength, and agility of both the rodeo athletes and their horses or livestock. Bareback and Saddle Bronc Riding involve riders staying atop bucking horses, while Bull Riding is the ultimate test of courage atop a bucking bull. Steer Wrestling requires athletes to wrestle a running steer to the ground, and Tie-Down Roping challenges cowboys to rope and tie a calf in the fastest time possible. Team Roping is unique as it involves two riders working in tandem to rope a steer. Barrel Racing, predominantly featuring female competitors, is a fast-paced race around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels. These events span the 10-day NFR, with contestants accumulating points and prize money to determine world champions in each discipline.

Why did NFR get cancelled?

The National Finals Rodeo (NFR) has a rich history of annual events, but there have been instances where the rodeo faced potential cancellations or relocations, primarily due to external circumstances. The most notable recent disruption occurred in 2020, when the NFR was moved from its traditional home in Las Vegas to Arlington, Texas. This decision was driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions on large gatherings and public events in Nevada. Health and safety guidelines made it impossible to host an event of NFR's scale in Las Vegas, prompting organizers to seek an alternative venue that could safely accommodate fans and participants. While the NFR was not technically canceled in 2020, the move and the uncertainty surrounding the event led many to question its status. Since then, the NFR has returned to Las Vegas as pandemic restrictions eased. Past cancellations or significant changes in NFR history have typically been due to unforeseen global or national events impacting health, safety, or logistics.

Who is playing in Vegas during NFR 2025?

During NFR 2025, Las Vegas transforms into a vibrant entertainment hub, attracting top-tier musical acts and performers to complement the rodeo's excitement. While the full entertainment lineup for NFR 2025 is still being finalized, past years have featured superstar country artists like George Strait, Reba McEntire, Luke Bryan, and Miranda Lambert performing at renowned venues such as T-Mobile Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, and the Thomas & Mack Center. Additionally, popular residencies and exclusive after-parties are scheduled throughout the city, with artists like Jason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn, and Shania Twain typically announcing special NFR-week shows. The city's famous casinos and hotels also host live music, comedy acts, and unique western-themed events, ensuring there's non-stop action beyond the rodeo arena. For the most current and detailed lineup, fans are encouraged to check official Las Vegas event calendars and ticketing platforms like Gigfomo as NFR 2025 approaches, as new shows and surprise performances are frequently added in the lead-up to rodeo week.

What rodeos qualify for NFR?

To qualify for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR), contestants must compete in Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) or Women's Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) sanctioned rodeos throughout the regular season. These qualifying rodeos are held across the United States and occasionally in Canada, featuring the same standard events as the NFR. Major qualifying rodeos include iconic competitions like Cheyenne Frontier Days, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Calgary Stampede, Pendleton Round-Up, and the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. Contestants earn points and prize money based on their performance at these events, all of which count toward the world standings maintained by the PRCA or WPRA. At season's end, the top 15 money-earners in each NFR event category secure a coveted spot at the National Finals Rodeo. Participation in these qualifying rodeos is crucial, as only those who consistently perform well throughout the season earn enough to make it to the championship event in Las Vegas.

How does the national finals rodeo work?

The National Finals Rodeo (NFR) operates as the season-ending championship event for professional rodeo, bringing together the top 15 contestants in each discipline based on earnings from the regular season. Held over 10 consecutive nights in Las Vegas, the NFR features nightly rounds where competitors accumulate points and prize money. Each contestant competes in their respective event every night, with performance in each round impacting their overall standings. The format ensures that consistent excellence is rewarded, as cumulative earnings from both the regular season and NFR determine the world champion in each category. The event is structured to be both a high-stakes competition and an entertainment spectacle, with fans enjoying live commentary, special ceremonies, and entertainment between events. The NFR is widely regarded as the "Super Bowl of Rodeo,"