Annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo Returns After Covid-19

Jack Mezey '23

The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo features several different events, such as bull riding and calf roping.

Audra Thomas, Reporter
February 2, 2022

The annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo began on January 14 and will be held through February 5. Last year, the Stock Show and Rodeo did not happen due to COVID restrictions. 

The FWSSR began in March 1896 in north Fort Worth. Purebred cattle, like Shorthorns and Herefords, were shown at the first rodeo. The second stock show was held on October 12 and 13 of 1896. Bill Pickett first introduced his idea of “bulldogging,” which is modern-day steer wrestling. In 1907, the Stock Show Association was created. In 1919, Baby Beef Clubs, now known as 4-H, was created. 

The Stock Show and Rodeo will be held at and around Dickies Arena. The admission for the Stock Show costs $12 and a Rodeo ticket costs around $30. The rodeo includes the Best of the West Rodeo on January 14, the Best of Mexico Celebration on January 16, the Cowboys of Color Rodeo on January 17, Bulls Night Out on January 19, and Texas Champions Challenge on January 20.

The Stock Show presents many different types of livestock starting on January 15, as well as horse shows starting on January 10. 

“My favorite part about the Stock Show and Rodeo is that it brings a stronger country culture to Fort Worth,” Caroline King ‘25 said. “It’s a good way to hang out with all your friends.”

The FWSSR includes a carnival midway suitable for all ages, open daily from the start of the stock show and rodeo to the end. The midway is open all week closing at 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and closing at 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The general admission price is $10 for adults and $5 for children; however, there is an extra fee to participate in the carnival games and the rides. 

“I like all the rides at the midway and I really like the funnel cakes, too,” Sophie Tam ‘25 said.