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NFR Live Guide

NFR Las Vegas 2026 Guide

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The NFR Las Vegas takeover runs from December 3 to December 12, 2026, and it reaches far beyond the arena. Here's how to plan your trip, whether or not you have a ticket.

The essentials

  • Dates: December 3–12, 2026, with 10 nights of competition.
  • Start time: 5:45 p.m. PT every night. See the schedule.
  • Venue: Thomas & Mack Center, on the UNLV campus at 4505 S. Maryland Parkway.
  • Tickets: sold through AXS. See our NFR tickets guide.

Cowboy Christmas

Cowboy Christmas is the big daytime stop, with more than 375 exhibitors selling western gear, gifts and more.

  • Where: Las Vegas Convention Center, South Halls, 3150 Paradise Road.
  • When: December 3–12, open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Admission: free.

The Ariat Rodeo Live Stage offers daily entertainment during the show, with two new shows for 2026.

More to do during the day and after dark

The official site groups its other events into a few categories. Check the listed pages for the latest details:

Watching without a ticket

More than 26 hotel partners host parties through the NFR Live program, and South Point has advertised free nightly parties. See our NFR viewing parties guide.

Getting around

The official site lists the NFR Express shuttle, the Las Vegas Monorail, the Vegas Loop and Lyft among its transport options, and a complimentary shuttle service is offered to attendees. Check the official NFR site for routes before you book, because shuttle stops depend on your hotel.

Tips for your NFR trip

  • Book your hotel early. The city fills up in December, so the official site's "Stay Your Way" hotel page is a good starting point.
  • Bring a layer. Las Vegas evenings can feel cool in December.
  • Check the bag rules. The official site's "Know Before You Go" page explains what you can bring into the arena.
  • Dress the part. Hats and boots are everywhere during NFR week, and Cowboy Christmas is the place to pick them up.
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