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
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses industry reactions to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, the Surface Transportation Board’s review process, and current conditions on the Mississippi River.
An outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) first appeared after livestock events in Texas and Arizona, and some horses have already died.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the USDA’s Stage Two Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, including application details, deadlines, and guidance for rural producers.
CattleCon 2026 kicks off February 3 in Nashville. Kristin Torres with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association joined RFD-TV to share more about what’s ahead at this year’s event.
Jerry Cosgrove with American Farmland Trust explains why farmers and ranchers should start their estate planning now.

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:

Cotton demand depends on demonstrating performance and reliability buyers can rely on, not messaging alone.
Read the full press release published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Lily Pryer’s passion shows how National FFA members are making an impact in classrooms and communities all across Rural America.
A look at the legislative year ahead as lawmakers return to Washington with a slate of trade concerns to tackle in 2026—from new Chinese tariffs on beef imports to the USMCA review this summer.
Shaun Haney, Host of RealAg Radio on Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147, joined us with his 2026 cattle market outlook and insights on beef prices.
Farmer Bridge Assistance payments provide immediate balance-sheet support heading into 2026, but remain a short-term bridge rather than a substitute for long-term market recovery.