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
Singer-songwriter and RanchHER Clare Dunn reflects on the importance of National FFA Week, her time in FFA, and her commitment to advocating for agriculture and rural issues.
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
FFA Western Region Vice President Jael Cruikshank talks about the importance of community service and how National FFA Organization members are making a difference in their communities during National FFA Week.
Galynn Beer of Tidal Grow Agri-Science joined us to discuss challenges in fertility management, the benefits of Align-N, and what growers can expect at Commodity Classic next week.
Iowa farmer Derek Hommer joined us to discuss grain bin safety, ongoing prevention efforts, and the importance of community preparedness during Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety Week.

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:

Global food prices rose slightly in the latest FAO Food Price Index as vegetable oils, cereals, and meat increased, offsetting declines in dairy and sugar.
Mexican livestock officials are emphasizing surveillance and inspection systems to preserve access to the U.S. cattle export market. Texas’ Bovina Feeders explains the rising stakes as the border stays closed.
University of Arkansas’ Allen Szalanski discusses a news study on rice stink bugs, what it could mean for farmers, and pest management strategies for the future.
Weak crop margins and tariff uncertainty are delaying machinery purchases and signaling slower capital investment across U.S. agriculture.
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum explains the role farm safety net programs play in supporting farm finances as growers head into the 2026 planting season.
Watch AARP Live tonight at 7:30 PM ET on RFD-TV to learn more about ways to reduce expenses and make smart financial choices.