Each January, Denver briefly transforms into the beating heart of the American West, and in 2026, the National Western Stock Show promises to do just that once again. Returning January 10–25, the 120th edition of the Stock Show arrives with new energy, familiar traditions, and a renewed focus on the people and stories that have long defined this iconic Colorado institution.
At the center of the 2026 celebration is George Eidsness, who has been named the National Western Stock Show’s Citizen of the West. The honor recognizes individuals whose lives reflect the grit, leadership, and community-minded spirit of the West, and Eidsness’ story fits squarely within that legacy. Raised on a North Dakota farm, he built a career rooted in agriculture and entrepreneurship, eventually growing Transwest Trucks into a leading Western enterprise. Beyond business, his commitment to philanthropy, youth agricultural programs, and long-term service to the National Western has left a lasting imprint. Eidsness will be formally honored during a gala dinner on January 12, with proceeds benefiting the National Western Scholarship Trust.
Kicking off the festivities, longtime Colorado leader and philanthropist Pete Coors will serve as Grand Marshal of the Stock Show’s famed Kick-Off Parade. Set for January 8, the parade will once again wind through downtown Denver, bringing horses, longhorns, wagons, and Western pageantry to the city streets. Coors’ selection reflects his deep ties to the National Western and his leadership in shaping its future, including his role in advancing major capital improvements that have transformed the National Western Center campus.
The 2026 Stock Show also marks a new chapter for one of its most meaningful traditions. The Martin Luther King Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo of Champions will take place January 19 at the Denver Coliseum, with the National Western Stock Show assuming production of the event. Long celebrated for honoring the often-overlooked contributions of Black cowboys and rodeo athletes, the rodeo remains a powerful expression of inclusion within Western culture. The transition signals a continued commitment to preserving the event’s cultural importance while expanding its reach and visibility.
Together, these announcements reflect a broader evolution underway at the National Western Stock Show. Now in its second century, the organization continues to balance heritage with progress, honoring time-tested traditions while opening doors to new voices and experiences. Beyond the 16-day event, the Stock Show’s impact is felt year-round through scholarships, education, agricultural advocacy, and community programming that support the future of the Western way of life.
As Denver prepares once again for the “Best 16 Days in January,” the 2026 National Western Stock Show stands as a reminder that the West is not just something to be remembered, it is something still being shaped, celebrated, and shared.
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