There's something fun for everyone!
With over 10 interactive and immersive programs, exhibits, and events across National Western grounds, there is plenty to see and do for kids of all ages! Our kid’s activities promote education and entertainment through many aspects of the agriculture industry, with the help of CSU, Colorado FFA, Colorado 4-H, and commodity groups.
Get Involved
Youth Art Contest
The Youth Art Contest showcases western-inspired works of art from students in grades 1st-12th. Champion, Reserve Champion and Honorable Mention artwork will be displayed at the 2026 National Western Stock Show. The contest is FREE to enter for all Colorado students! Registration opens in September.
VET 101
School Visits
National Western proudly hosts more than 15,000 students, teachers, and parents each year through our organized School Visits Program FREE of charge.
Students have the opportunity to tour the Stock Show grounds and learn about how agriculture impacts their everyday lives. Registration for 2026 is now OPEN!
Things to See and Do
Pony Rides
Time to saddle up! The National Western Pony Rides are available to all the future cowboys and cowgirls on the 3rd Floor of the Expo Hall. Open from 9:30 am-8 pm (Sundays-Thursdays) and 9:30 am-9 pm (Fridays-Saturdays).
Location: Level 1, Itty Bitty Acres
Ames Beef Palace
A full schedule of entertaining and educational programs, including Top Hogs performances, Farmyard Follies, Sheep Shearing, and Stick Horse Rodeos.
Location: Level 1
CSU Ag Adventure
CSU Ag Adventure is the perfect place for children and adults to learn about the world of agriculture.
Location: Level 1, Itty Bitty Acres
Hutchison Western Pony Trails
Horse around in this exhibit that will teach you everything you want to know about our equine friends.

Location: Level 1, Itty Bitty Acres
King Soopers Petting Farm
Come face to face with over 60 barnyard animals! The Petting Farm is FREE with your grounds admission ticket. Open from 9:30 am-7:30 pm daily.
Location: Level 1, Itty Bitty Acres
NW Nursery
Come meet our newest arrivals of your favorite farm animals and learn about their first days of life on the farm at the National Western Nursery presented by Murdoch’s.
Location: Level 1, Itty Bitty Acres
Stock Show Tours
Led by Colorado State FFA Officers, join in on this FREE tour into the heart of the Stock Show. Tour the grounds and learn about our 120-year old history, the agriculture industry, and the future National Western Center.
Location: Top of Stairs, South Ticket Lobby
Hours: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm, daily (tours are offered every hour on the half hour)
Ames Beef Palace
Located on Level 1
Farmyard Follies
Folkloric Dancers
Clownin' Around with the Dessel Clan
Experience the excitement and laughs brought to us by renowned PRCA rodeo clown, Allan Dessel and his talented clan all the way from Cherokee, Iowa.
Top Hogs of the Wild West
Xtreme Dogs Pat & Chat
Wild West Show Preview
Sheep Shearing
Stick Horse Rodeo
Time to saddle up for the National Western’s Stick Horse Rodeo!
Swing & Line Dancing with Country KickUp