The Arizona National Livestock Show is set to return for its 77th year at the Arizona State Fairgrounds.
This popular post-Christmas family event scheduled for December 29 – 31, is free to the public.
Since 1948, exhibitors and their families have traveled from more than 39 states for the annual Arizona National Livestock Show traditionally held between Christmas and New Year’s. Along with over 4,200 head of the nation’s best cattle, sheep, goats, swine, horses and dogs for competition, the ANLS features three days of entertaining events.
This celebration of the living heritage of Arizona offers dozens of live competition, art and educational displays, as well as food vendors and more.
The ANLS is one of only four junior livestock events in the country. Young ranchers age 12 and under will be bringing the prized animals they’ve raised all year for show and sale. Dedicated to youth education and the next generation of ranchers, the Arizona National Livestock Show has offered $60,000 scholarships each year, with a total of more than $800,000 given to agriculture students through its history. In addition to scholarships, the ANLS provides valuable internship program through the week of the event, with 20 coveted positions awarded to student journalists to assist in coverage.
“The Arizona National Livestock Show is a fantastic opportunity to inspire curiosity about where our food comes from and to foster a deeper appreciation for the agricultural practices that sustain us,” said Arizona National Livestock Show Executive Director Tyler Grandil.
Li’l Buckaroo Rodeo (Dec 29 – 31, 1pm)
One of the highlights of the Arizona National Livestock Show, the Li’l Buckaroo Rodeo is where boys and girls ages 4-6 have the chance to compete like real cowboys and cowgirls. Watch these little buckaroos ride wild and woolly sheep across the arena in the hopes of winning the go-round and moving on to the finals.
Youth Ranch Rodeo (Dec 28, 2pm)
Tweens & teen cowboys and cowgirls compete in traditional ranching events. From team roping to barrel racing, this rousing competition highlights the skills and teamwork essential to ranch life.
Goat Roping – Breakaway (Dec 29 – 31, 2pm)
This fast-paced competition combines the challenges of steer roping, but with the roper standing rather than on horseback. Amazing to watch as the goats come flying out of the chute! Adults and children compete.
Goat Roping – Team Roping (Dec 29 – 31, 4pm)
In team roping, two ropers – a “header” and “heeler” – aim to wrangle the speeding goat with one rope around the neck and one on the back legs. Adults and children compete.
For a complete show schedule and time of events, visit www.anls.org.