National Western Stock Show opens weekend with record attendance | Arts & Entertainment

Crowds flooded the 117th National Western Stock Show, breaking attendance records for the opening weekend, according to a press release.

According to official statistics, 109,978 stock show fans visited on Saturday and Sunday, breaking the previous opening weekend record of 106,921 set in 2020.

“I want to personally thank everyone who came this weekend to celebrate and support this important Colorado tradition,” President and CEO Paul Andrews said in the release. “Not only to enjoy the rodeo and horse show, but to support exhibitors, ranchers and farmers from 48 states coming to Denver for 16 days as part of our community.”

Ties like Saturday’s Colorado vs. World Rodeo, CINCH World Team Semifinals and Sunday’s Mexican Rodeo extravaganza might help.

But it’s not without its problems – especially when it comes to parking, or lack thereof. Patrons discussed the issue in person on social media and at Sunday’s Mexican rodeo.

Officials tried to provide free parking and a free shuttle at the Coors Field parking lot near Broadway and Wazee Streets, but to no avail.

“The parking situation is an issue and we are working hard to make changes to better serve our guests this upcoming weekend,” spokeswoman Karen Woods said. “We’re working hard to determine a system that will best serve our guests.”

There were 58,901 guests on Saturday, beating the previous record of 57,386 set in 2020. More than 51,000 people visited on Sunday, breaking the previous opening Sunday record of 50,577 set in 2018.

Tuesday is free admission day, courtesy of sponsor Arrow Electronics.

“Guests can enjoy an array of events including Colorado’s largest western trade show, the Miniature Zebu Show, the Stick Horse Rodeo presented by Centura Health, Coors Western Art Gallery, Westernaires Trick & Fancy Ropers and more,” the release said.

For more information or tickets, please visit nationalwestern.com.