Youth, Livestock, and Family Fun Shine at Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo

FWSSR Communications Director Matt Brockman discusses the event’s competitions, safety preparations, and family-friendly activities during the opening weekend.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is officially underway, continuing its long-standing tradition of showcasing Western culture in North Texas since 1896. The 23-day event features livestock competitions, live music, and family-friendly activities, living up to its slogan, “This Thing is Legendary.”

Matt Brockman, Communications Director for the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, joined us on Wednesay’s Market Day Report to share more about opening weekend.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Brockman highlighted the Junior Heifer Shows, giving 4-H and FFA youth a chance to compete and showcase their livestock. He also discussed preparations for the weekend weather, including plans to handle potential ice or snow accumulation to ensure the safety of attendees and animals.

Brockman explained the Mustang Magic competition, where participants compete for cash prizes and have the opportunity to adopt the showcased mustangs. He also provided details on the Heifer Superintendent’s Beef Challenge, outlining how this competition engages participants and emphasizes livestock management skills.

Related Stories
Kip Eideberg with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers details its campaign spotlighting the people who build equipment vital to farming and food manufacturing.
Buzzard discusses her upcoming appearance on the Dirt Diaries podcast with host Kirbe Schnoor and the importance of sharing authentic stories about agriculture.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined us to break down what telehealth entails and which conditions can be managed through remote appointments.
Cargill’s commitment to keep plants open helps preserve competition as Tyson removes capacity amid historically tight cattle supplies.
Brooks York with AgriSompo joins us to offer an update on what agents are prioritizing as the calendar year winds down.
A leading Oklahoma veterinarian explains common symptoms of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) and warns owners to remain vigilant because it can spread quickly among horses.
National FFA President Trey Myers joins Monday’s FFA Today to share his hopes and goals for the 2025-2026 year as he steps into this opportunity to lead and serve the next generation of agriculture.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, adding a decade of experience in the digital side of broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

China continues to buy U.S. soybeans toward its 12 MMT commitment, as analysts cite data gaps, delivery timing questions, and muted market reaction.
FarmHER Nikki Boxler, aka The Maple Farmer, blends tradition with innovation, tapping into a bold new future for maple syrup.
As the new year begins, both farmers and rural families are taking stock of their finances and planning ahead for 2026.
Trade uncertainty—especially regarding soybeans—continues to weigh on future outlooks, even as farm finances and land values remain resilient.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal insight and context on these issues facing agriculture. Today, he discusses pesticide litigation.
Sen. Deb Fischer reintroduces the HAULS Act to update hours-of-service exemptions and definitions affecting livestock and agricultural haulers. She joins us on Market Day Report to share more about her proposed legislation.