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
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the updates to crop insurance subsidies, additional benefits for new farmers, and eligibility considerations for those entering the program.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold discuss nutrition challenges in rural communities, barriers to healthy food access, and ways to improve dietary outcomes this week on Rural Health Matters.
At the Port of Brownsville, shrimpers are facing rising operating costs and increased competition, but many shrimp producers and local lawmakers remain optimistic about the industry’s future.
Governor Jim Pillen joined us to share the latest on the Nebraska wildfires, discuss relief efforts, and outline considerations for producers navigating the ongoing situation.
Bryan Combs with USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service breaks down new farmland data from the TOTAL survey, highlights key findings, and potential impacts for the ag sector. ASFMRA’s David Klein also shares how those trends are reflected in the current farmland market, especially in the Midwest.
From barns to show rings, producers and students say that livestock events offer economic opportunity and life lessons. Let’s take a look at some shows across the southeast in Georgia, Virginia and Louisiana.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

According to the most recent version of the Household Food Security Report for 2022-2023, food insecurity is on the rise in the U.S.
Let’s meet an inspiring young farmer leading the Tennessee FFA this year, but now has his sights set on the National stage.
Cindy Kovar with AgriSafe joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to talk about road safety and agriculture as we age.
USMEF CEO Dan Halstrom joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report for his analysis on the U.S.-Taiwan trade agreement, which includes big bucks for U.S. Beef.
Record U.S. sorghum crop faces weak demand as China slashes imports, while corn farmers warn of rising costs, shrinking margins, and global market pressures.
Fewer cattle on feed suggest smaller slaughter numbers this winter, which could support strong prices if beef demand holds firm.