F*CK F1, Bring on WNFR
The True Friend of Las Vegas Tourism
Now that the Las Vegas Grand Prix ilk have left our city, leaving us to clean up their mess, the real supporter of Las Vegas Tourism moves in.
That would be the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. A.k.a. WNF or NFR for short. Often called the “Super Bowl of Rodeo,” December 4 to 13.
For ten days, Vegas turns country. Almost every casino resort gets into it. Parties, fan contests, live feeds on the gaming floor, and in the sports books.
For ten days, tourists are happy. No streets closed, no shows postponed. Sidewalks and walkovers are open. Most of the top names in country music show up. And “shop till you drop” takes on a whole new meaning! (seriously)
What is WNFR?
The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo is a 40-year tradition, generating over $200 million a year, and serving as a major economic driver for Las Vegas.
F1 has nothing on NFR, except that NFR is legit and welcomed by all.
The NFR showcases the world’s elite rodeo athletes from around the world. Only the top 15 money-earners in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) from seven primary events qualify to compete at the Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus.
These athletes compete in a high-stakes battle for a multi-million dollar prize purse and the coveted gold World Champion buckles.
History
It all started in Dallas, Texas, in 1959, and then moved to cowboy country in Kansas and Missouri. Then “stolen” by Las Vegas in 1985.
They like to say we stole it from its true home and moved it to Sin City because we offered to pay the riders a decent bounty just for showing up. It worked!
Other than 2020, when it had to move to Texas because of our “two-week shutdown”. It has been filling Las Vegas hotels, casinos, and the Thomas & Mack Center with fun-loving, hard-working true gamblers and entrepreneurs, the American cowboy (and cowgirl), since 1985.
In 2023, the Board of Directors for the NFR got a bug up their ass and threatened to move out, with possible locations including Orlando, Florida.
Most of the riders, stock contractors, and shoppers said it can move; they will still come back here in the fall for whatever Vegas does to replace them. So they changed their minds and decided to stay. They signed a ten-year, multi-million dollar extension! Then, it was extended to 2035.
What’s Here for the Tourist?
Well, if you don't like cowboys, cowgirls, country music, or shopping, I would avoid Vegas during this week. Otherwise, there is something here for just about everyone.
Cowboy Christmas takes over the Convention Center. You can buy anything from cowboy boots, ranch vacation rentals, to mega RVs and luxury toy haulers. Here is the Cowboy Christmas link
If you ever wanted an excuse to visit the cowboy-friendly South Point casino and resort, now is a good time. They have Cowboy Central. Shopping, horse and rider competitions, great food, and fun gambling. (and bingo)
Entertainment galore. From Rodney Carrington to Tim McGraw to almost every country act in between!. Here is a listing of NFR Entertainment
And of course, the competition inside the Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus.
Wrap Up
So, Las Vegas welcomes back its true, time-honored tradition. The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. It's more than a one-night sporting event that excludes more than it includes.
It's a 10-day celebration that brings family entertainment, money for all involved, and a party atmosphere like no other event in Las Vegas.
It delivers on the promise of world-class entertainment without sacrificing the city’s accessibility or charm. The open doors of every resort prove that when the cowboys come to town, Vegas truly feels like home.
So saddle up and join the party—this is the real Vegas deal.
Your Thoughts?
Mark Anthony
The Vegas Tourist
P.S. Don’t forget, our Vegas Survival Kit, featuring chargers, cooling gear, and more, is a must-have before your trip. Click here to pack smarter
P.S.S. Have you booked a tour yet? The future you will thank you for saving the hassle! Visit MrMarkTours.com