Denver, CO – The National Western Stock Show, presented by CommonSpirit Health, is excited to announce a collaboration with the Denver Broncos for the Thankful for Colorado game. The halftime entertainment will bring the excitement of mutton bustin’ to the halftime show during the Broncos vs. Browns game on Sunday, November 26, as the Stock Show celebrates 40 days until its highly anticipated opening.
The act of mutton bustin was introduced to Colorado in 1980 by Nancy Cervi. The Cervi family of Roggens, CO is a long-standing rodeo family. Over the years, mutton bustin’ has become a cherished tradition that captivates families and fairgoers alike. The 2023 National Western Stock Show saw an incredible response, with over 2,500 youngsters registered to mutton bustin’ and create a cherished experience that lasts a lifetime.
Mutton Bustin’ follows the traditional rodeo format, where children aged 5-7 and weighing under 55 lbs. mount a woolly sheep and attempt to hold on for as long as possible. Decked in safety vests and helmets, the young riders earn scores based on their duration on the sheep and the distance across the arena.
“We’re excited to showcase a Stock Show tradition and the young participants in mutton bustin’ as part of the Denver Broncos, Thankful for Colorado game,” said Paul Andrews, President & CEO for the National Western Stock Show. “We invite everyone to witness these tough mutton busters in action again during the 118th National Western Stock Show this January 6 – 21, 2024,” said Andrews.
About the National Western Stock Show
Established in 1906, the National Western Stock Show is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides college and graduate-level agricultural science, business, and rural medicine scholarships. Our mission is to serve producers and consumers worldwide by being the premier annual livestock show and center for year-round events. The 16-day show in January also serves as an entertainment arena, hosting one of the world’s richest regular-season professional rodeos, world-class horse shows, family educational events, and Colorado’s largest western trade show. For more information, visit nationalwestern.com.