Cowboy Christmas 2026: Dates, Hours and What to Expect

Cowboy Christmas 2026 runs December 3–12 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, with free admission, more than 375 exhibitors and the Ariat Rodeo Live Stage.

By NFR Live Guide Staff · October 28, 2026

A saddle bronc rider holds on as a bay horse kicks high at the National Finals Rodeo

Cowboy Christmas 2026 is one of the biggest draws of NFR week, and you don't need a rodeo ticket to go.

The details

According to the official event page:

Dates: December 3–12, 2026.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, South Halls, 3150 Paradise Road.
Admission: free.
Exhibitors: more than 375.

What's new

The Ariat Rodeo Live Stage offers daily entertainment again, with two new shows in 2026.

Plan your day

The show closes at 4 p.m., and the rodeo starts at 5:45 p.m., so a daytime visit fits well before a performance or a viewing party. Allow time to cross town to the Thomas & Mack Center. Our NFR Las Vegas guide has more ideas for your trip.

Watch Options

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Riders on horseback carrying flags line up on the arena floor at the National Finals Rodeo, with a full crowd in the stands

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What Time Does NFR Start? 2026 Start Times Explained

What time does NFR start in 2026? Every performance begins at 5:45 p.m. PT, or 8:45 p.m. ET. Here are the times for your zone and how long each night runs.

A bull rider in a helmet and fringed chaps holds on to a spotted bull at the National Finals Rodeo

November 2, 2026

Stetson Wright Triple Crown: His 2026 NFR Chase Explained

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