Las Vegas is currently being taken over by the thrilling world of rodeo events, and the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) is at the epicenter of this cultural phenomenon. But what if you don’t have a ticket to the main event? No worries – there are plenty of alternative rodeo events happening all around the city that cater to cowboys and cowgirls of all ages and interests.
Plaza hotel-casino CEO Jonathan Jossel took a bold risk back in December 2018 by opening the CORE Arena, an equestrian center located in Downtown Las Vegas. This move paid off, as the arena has become a hub for various rodeo events, including ranch sorting, pole bending, barrel racing, breakaway roping, and more. With a seating capacity for up to 5,000 spectators, the CORE Arena has become a must-visit destination during the 10-day NFR period.
Rodeo Extravaganza Beyond NFR
While the NFR at the Thomas & Mack Center may be the main draw, other venues in Las Vegas are also hosting a wide range of rodeo competitions to attract fans and diversify their revenue streams. According to Bo Gardner, vice president of corporate marketing at Las Vegas Events, these events cater to those who may not have tickets to the NFR but still want to experience the cowboy lifestyle.
Youth Competitions and Adult Rodeo Events
Las Vegas has seen a surge in youth rodeo competitions, with events like the Junior World Finals drawing hundreds of contestants and their families to the city. Additionally, adult rodeo athletes flock to venues like South Point’s arena for competitions like the Miss Rodeo America Pageant and the World Series of Team Roping, boasting an impressive prize pool of $18 million.
New Players in the Rodeo Scene
Resorts World, a newcomer to the Las Vegas Strip, has made a splash in the rodeo scene by hosting the Bullfighters Only World Championships. Solomon Schwartz, head of sponsorships and activation at Resorts World, emphasized the importance of filling the gap in rodeo programming to attract tourists looking for new experiences post-pandemic.
Authentic Rodeo Experience
For hotel-casino operators looking to enhance their NFR programming, authenticity is key. Plaza’s Jossel believes in building a genuine connection with customers through rodeo events, while South Point’s Growney offers a humorous piece of advice for new operators: lower your beer prices.
As Las Vegas continues to embrace the rodeo culture, visitors and locals alike can enjoy a diverse range of events that celebrate the spirit of the Wild West. Whether you’re a seasoned cowboy or a first-time rodeo-goer, there’s something for everyone in the vibrant world of rodeo events in Las Vegas.
