DENVER, CO – The 2026 National Western Stock Show (NWSS) presented by CommonSpirit Health, concluded with 750,039 in attendance, smashing the former record of 726,972 set in 2006. From kids in cowboy hats to generational Stock Show goers, people came from across the country and beyond to experience Denver’s most iconic Western event. The 120th Anniversary Stock Show was packed with record-breaking livestock auctions, heart-pounding rodeos, breathtaking horse shows, and so much more.
“This year was bigger than ever, and Denver came together to celebrate the Western way of life, helping us crush the all-time attendance record.” said Wes Allison, President and CEO of the National Western Stock Show. “From fans to exhibitors and members to volunteers, everyone played a role in this 120-year tradition. Stock Show is about honoring our roots, inspiring the next generation, and creating memories that last a lifetime.”
In a year that saw new records set across the grounds, the standout event was The Auction of Junior Livestock Champions, presented by CoBank, which delivered one of the most electric moments of the 2026 Show. When the Grand Champion Junior Market Steer, shown by 13-year-old Cannon Reinmann, was purchased for a record-smashing $320,000 by Bank of Colorado. The overall auction sales totaled a staggering $1,875,500, a new record by $423,000. This year’s auction was a true testament to Denver’s commitment to the future of agriculture.
A portion of the auction proceeds supports the National Western Scholarship Trust, helping fund education and career pathways in agriculture and rural medicine.
Proceeds from three key events support the National Western Scholarship Trust:
- The Citizen of the West dinner, honoring George Eidsness.
- The Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale broke records with $1,836,195 in sales to date.
- The Auction of Junior Livestock Champions, presented by CoBank, set a new record in 2026.
“Thanks to our sponsors and partners, we’re able to award 120 scholarships each year, ranging from $2,500 to $15,000 per student,” Allison said. “These scholarships give students the chance to turn their passion for agriculture into meaningful careers and lasting impact.”
From the grand opening of new buildings to the crowds that filled them, the 2026 NWSS marked a milestone year, celebrating its 120th anniversary. Record-breaking attendance and energy across the grounds reflected the strength of a tradition that continues to honor its Western roots while evolving for the future.
Next year’s National Western Stock Show will be held January 9 – January 24, 2027, in Denver, CO. We Are the West.
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 scholarships in agricultural science, business, and rural medicine. 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.
