The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) returns to Las Vegas from December 4 to 13, 2025, bringing ten thrilling nights of world-class rodeo action to the Thomas & Mack Center. As the Super Bowl of rodeo, this prestigious event crowns world champions in seven core rodeo disciplines—and it’s more than just a competition. It’s a full-blown celebration of Western heritage, culture, and entertainment that takes over the entire city.
The Pinnacle of Rodeo Competition
The 2025 NFR will feature the top 15 contestants in each of the PRCA’s main events:
- Bareback Riding
- Steer Wrestling
- Team Roping (Headers & Heelers)
- Saddle Bronc Riding
- Tie-Down Roping
- Barrel Racing (WPRA)
- Bull Riding
Competitors will battle it out for a share of the record-breaking prize pool, which has surpassed $14.9 million in recent years and is expected to climb further under the extended agreement between the PRCA and Las Vegas Events.
How to Watch NFR 2025
Fans at home won’t miss a moment of the action thanks to extensive coverage from The Cowboy Channel and RFD-TV. The Cowboy Channel+ streaming platform provides live and on-demand access to all 10 performances, pre-show analysis, and behind-the-scenes features. Whether you’re watching on cable, Roku, Fire TV, or a mobile device, the rodeo is more accessible than ever.
Evening performances begin at 5:45 PM Pacific Time, but pre-show festivities and musical performances often start earlier, so tuning in early is highly recommended.
Ticket Info & Fan Access
Tickets are now on sale and expected to sell quickly, especially for prime weekend dates. All performances are held at the Thomas & Mack Center, which has hosted the NFR since 1985 (with a temporary move to Texas during 2020). Early buyers can lock in the best views of the arena’s signature yellow bucking chutes and enjoy direct access to a venue buzzing with energy.
Las Vegas Events also offers ticket packages that include premium seating, Cowboy Christmas perks, and access to exclusive events.
Cowboy Christmas: The Ultimate Western Shopping Experience
Held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from December 4–13, Cowboy Christmas is a free, family-friendly expo featuring:
- 500,000+ square feet of Western apparel, art, furniture, and gear
- 375+ vendors from across the U.S.
- Live music, autograph signings, and rodeo-themed entertainment
- Interactive exhibits like the YETI Junior World Finals and the Ariat Rodeo Live Stage
It’s a can’t-miss destination whether you’re looking to complete your Western look or just soak in the culture.
Downtown Hoedown & Vegas Nightlife
Kick off NFR week with the Downtown Hoedown at Fremont Street Experience—a free outdoor concert event showcasing some of country music’s rising stars and established names. While the 2025 lineup hasn’t been announced yet, past acts have included Randy Houser, Chase Matthew, and Lainey Wilson.
Beyond Fremont, the entire Las Vegas Strip embraces NFR fever. Country concerts, rodeo after-parties, and meet-and-greets take place at venues like:
- T-Mobile Arena (Cody Johnson, Dec 5)
- The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan (Ron White, Dec 6)
- Resorts World Theatre, South Point, and more
Expect a sea of cowboy hats, Wrangler jeans, and boots lighting up the nightlife from dusk to dawn.
Hotel Deals, Shuttle Service & Local Perks
Most major hotels offer NFR-themed promotions, including free shuttles to the Thomas & Mack Center and nightly live entertainment. The Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino is among the top picks, featuring country music shows, rodeo viewing parties, and themed hospitality suites. Hotels like South Point and MGM Grand also host live rodeo broadcasts and fan events.
Booking early ensures not only better rates but also access to limited-time NFR travel packages.
NFR’s Future in Vegas Is Secure
In a massive win for fans and the sport, Las Vegas will remain the home of the NFR through at least 2035. The long-term deal between Las Vegas Events and the PRCA secures over $264 million in payouts to athletes and stock contractors, along with annual increases in prize money to support the sport’s growth.
This extension guarantees the continuation of a beloved Vegas tradition that injects over $200 million into the local economy each December.
With a perfect mix of elite rodeo action, high-stakes competition, shopping, concerts, and Vegas glamor, NFR 2025 is shaping up to be the can’t-miss event of the Western sports calendar. Whether you’re planning to attend in person or watch from home, it’s time to mark your calendar and get ready for ten unforgettable nights under the bright lights of Las Vegas.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 NFR will take place December 4-13 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas with live coverage on The Cowboy Channel and RFD-TV.
- Viewers can watch through traditional cable providers or stream online through cowboychannelplus.com for greater flexibility.
- The Cowboy Channel now reaches 42 million homes with dedicated Western sports programming and varied evening broadcast times.
Watching the National Finals Rodeo
The National Finals Rodeo (NFR) offers multiple viewing options for rodeo fans across the United States. Viewers can catch all the action through television broadcasts, streaming services, or experience the excitement in person at various Las Vegas venues.
Broadcast Channels and Streaming Services
The Cowboy Channel serves as the official broadcast home for the 2025 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, scheduled for December 4-13 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. RFD TV and Rural Radio also provide coverage of the events.
Fans looking to stream the NFR have several options. The Cowboy Channel Plus app allows viewers to watch on mobile devices and is available for download on both the App Store and Play Store.
For those with streaming devices, Roku supports the Cowboy Channel app. YouTube TV includes the necessary channels in their package lineup.
Most major TV providers such as DirectTV and Dish Network include the Cowboy Channel in their programming packages. Viewers should check their local listings for exact channel numbers and broadcast times.
Live Venue Viewing Options in Las Vegas
Las Vegas transforms into rodeo central during the NFR, with numerous venues hosting watch parties throughout the city. The Las Vegas Convention Center often features special NFR viewing events with big screens and live entertainment.
Several hotels offer dedicated viewing experiences. The Mirage and Treasure Island host popular viewing parties with multiple screens and drink specials. Many sports books across Las Vegas also broadcast the events live with betting options available.
Tickets to attend the actual rodeo at the Thomas & Mack Center typically sell out quickly. Fans should purchase well in advance to secure seats for this popular event.
Many venues combine NFR viewing with live music performances, creating a festive atmosphere. Local bars and restaurants throughout Las Vegas also host smaller watch parties with food and drink specials during the ten-day event.
Rodeo-Themed Entertainment and Events
The National Finals Rodeo experience extends far beyond the competitive events at the Thomas & Mack Center. Visitors to Las Vegas during the NFR can immerse themselves in Western culture through shopping, music, and interactive experiences.
Cowboy Christmas and Shopping Experience
Cowboy Christmas stands as the premier shopping destination during NFR week. This massive marketplace features over 400 vendors selling authentic Western merchandise.
Shoppers can find custom-made cowboy boots, hand-crafted jewelry, and premium Western fashion. Many leading brands like Wrangler, Resistol, and Justin Boots set up elaborate booths with exclusive NFR merchandise.
The marketplace also offers specialty food items, including famous Western-style cookies and treats. Many vendors provide free samples and demonstrations of their products.
Art enthusiasts can browse Western-themed paintings, sculptures, and photography. Custom hat shaping services are particularly popular, with master hatters creating personalized fits.
Concerts and Live Performances
The NFR transforms Las Vegas into a country music haven with performances by top artists. The 2025 lineup is expected to include fan favorites across multiple venues.
Many hotels on the Strip host nightly concerts after the rodeo events. Artists like Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, and potentially even legends like George Strait or Shania Twain often perform during NFR week.
The Rodeo Round Up, hosted by 107.9 Rodeo Radio from 7pm to 9pm, offers thrilling entertainment. This event draws large crowds of rodeo enthusiasts.
Many venues offer package deals that include both rodeo tickets and concert admission. Some performances feature special rodeo-themed sets with songs about bull riding, barrel racing, and cowboy life.
Interactive Experiences and Meet-and-Greets
Fans can connect with their favorite rodeo athletes through organized meet-and-greets. These events typically feature competitors from all rodeo disciplines including bull riding, steer wrestling, and team roping.
Autograph sessions are scheduled throughout the ten days of competition. The sessions allow fans to meet champions and get merchandise signed.
Interactive exhibits let visitors test their skills on mechanical bulls or virtual barrel racing simulators. Some hotels offer team roping demonstrations with professional instruction.
Many sponsors host giveaways of exclusive NFR merchandise and Western gear. The Cowboy Channel often conducts live interviews where fans can participate in Q&A sessions with athletes.
Family-friendly activities include Western craft stations and photo opportunities with rodeo personalities. Many events are free to attend, making them accessible to all NFR visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
The NFR offers various viewing options for rodeo fans across different platforms. Here are answers to the most common questions about how to catch all the action during this exciting ten-day event.
What are the options for streaming the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) online?
Fans can stream the NFR through The Cowboy Channel+ app, which provides live coverage of all performances. This dedicated streaming service offers comprehensive access to the event.
RFD-TV NOW also provides streaming options for the National Finals Rodeo. Both services require subscriptions but offer reliable ways to watch the competition online.
Some cable provider apps may allow streaming with proper credentials if The Cowboy Channel is included in the subscription package.
Is the NFR broadcast on traditional cable or satellite channels?
Yes, The Cowboy Channel serves as the primary broadcaster for NFR performances. They typically air the main events each evening at 7 PM.
RFD-TV also broadcasts NFR content on traditional cable and satellite packages. Viewers should check their local listings for channel information and exact broadcast times.
Many cable and satellite providers include these channels in their sports or western-themed packages.
Can I watch the NFR live on Roku, and if so, how?
Roku users can download The Cowboy Channel+ app on their devices to watch NFR events. After installing the app, users must subscribe to the service.
The RFD-TV NOW app is also available on Roku devices for streaming NFR content. Both apps require account creation and subscription payment.
Some cable provider apps on Roku may also offer NFR coverage if The Cowboy Channel is included in the user’s package.
Are there any platforms offering free streaming of the NFR?
Complete free streaming options for the NFR are limited. Most legitimate viewing options require some form of payment or subscription.
Some NFR highlights and clips may be available on social media platforms at no cost. These typically include short segments rather than full performances.
Local sports bars and restaurants may show the events, providing a free viewing option for patrons.
What is the availability of NFR programming on YouTube TV?
YouTube TV may offer NFR content if it includes The Cowboy Channel or RFD-TV in its channel lineup. Availability varies by location and subscription package.
Subscribers should check the current YouTube TV channel list to confirm whether these networks are included in their service area.
If not available directly, YouTube TV users might need to purchase separate subscriptions to The Cowboy Channel+ app for complete coverage.
Does The Cowboy Channel require a subscription to view the NFR?
Yes, The Cowboy Channel requires a subscription through a cable/satellite provider or their streaming service to watch NFR events.
The Cowboy Channel+ streaming service offers a direct subscription option for those without cable. Pricing typically includes daily, monthly, or annual plans.
This subscription grants access to all live NFR performances during the ten-day event, starting at the scheduled evening times.
