Every December for the past 40 years, cowboys and rodeo lovers have descended upon Las Vegas for the annual National Finals Rodeo (NFR). As the world’s biggest and most prestigious rodeo, only the best of the best come to compete for the coveted NFR titles.
With NFR in town, there’s another fun Las Vegas event that is just as much of a tradition as the rodeo itself. The Downtown Hoedown, hosted by the Fremont Street Experience, is a honky-tonk time in the heart of the city. Here are highlights from the 2024 Downtown Hoedown, more info on NFR and what you can expect in 2025.
Check out downtown Las Vegas events at the Fremont Street Experience.
What Is the NFR (National Finals Rodeo)?
Of course, die-hard rodeo fans will already know all about the NFR event in Las Vegas. However, for anyone unfamiliar with the sport, the National Finals Rodeo is the championship rodeo of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). Translation? NFR is a really big deal. Correction: it is the biggest of deals in terms of competitive rodeo.
Held each year in December, NFR features several events to crown the world champions, including:
- Bareback riding
- Steer wrestling
- Team roping
- Saddle bronc riding
- Tie-down roping
- Barrel racing
- Bull riding
History of the National Finals Rodeo
The National Finals Rodeo was established in 1958 by the PRCA as the ultimate rodeo championship event held at the end of the year. After a short stint in Dallas and Los Angeles, followed by 20 years in Oklahoma City, the NFR found their current home in Las Vegas.
Downtown Las Vegas casino icon, Benny Binion, played a significant role in getting the NFR to Sin City. Sound familiar? Yes, that Benny Binion of Binion’s Gambling Hall on Fremont Street. Not only was he an avid gambler and casino owner but also a Texas-born-and-raised cowboy.
In 2024, the PRCA extended their contract to keep the NFR in Las Vegas through 2035. Well, twist our arm. We’ll just have to keep the Downtown Hoedown party going until then.
What Is the Downtown Hoedown at the Fremont Street Experience?
The Downtown Hoedown is a free event in downtown Las Vegas featuring live music from chart-topping country artists. It’s traditionally held a day before the NFR event starts, giving cowboys, NFR attendees and downtown Las Vegas visitors a proper party to kick off the 10-day rodeo championships.
2024 Downtown Hoedown Lineup
The live Downtown Hoedown concerts take place across three stages under the famous Viva Vision canopy at the Fremont Street Experience. Here’s who had the crowds on their feet during the 38th Downtown Hoedown on December 4th, 2024:
- Chase Matthew with Jenna Paulette at the Main Street Stage
- Jackson Dean at the 1st Street Stage
- Randy Houser with Annie Bosko at the 3rd Street Stage
Featured Artists at Past Downtown Hoedowns
The star-studded lineups from past Downtown Hoedown parties included:
- Chancey Wiliams and the Younger Brothers Band
- Drake White and The Big Fire
- Carly Pearce
- Michael Ray
- Neal McCoy
- Kip Moore
- Chris Janson
- Granger Smith
- Gabby Barrett
- David Lee Murphy
Do You Need Tickets for the Downtown Hoedown?
No. The Downtown Hoedown is a free event that does not require a ticket to attend. However, it does get crowded. We recommend getting there early to secure a good spot for your favorite artist.
How Far Is the Fremont Street Experience From the NFR Event?
The 2024 NFR was held at the Thomas & Mack Center located on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) campus. Depending on which way you go, it will take you about 15-20 minutes to travel from the Thomas & Mack Center to the Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas.
What Are Things To Do Before and After the Downtown Hoedown?
What does a cowboy have to do to get a drink in this town? Well, not much. Fremont Street has a bar around every corner, so all you have to do is take your pick.
With so many other things to do in downtown Las Vegas, we’ve put together a quick guide to help you get the most out of your NFR trip to Vegas. Here are some downtown highlights you need to check out:
- SlotZilla Zipline
- Free Viva Vision light shows
- Downtown Las Vegas gaming
- Sports betting in downtown Las Vegas
- Stadium Swim at Circa Resort & Casino
- Free nightly entertainment
- Vintage “Old Vegas” attractions
For affordable accommodations that put you right in the middle of the Fremont Street action, check out Four Queens, Fremont Hotel & Casino and Golden Nugget Las Vegas.
Get unlimited rides on SlotZilla Monday through Friday until 5:00 p.m.
What To Expect at the 2025 National Finals Rodeo
While the NFR has yet to release any details about the 2025 event, it is sure to be a wild ride. With only the top 15 contestants in each event able to participate in the NRF, you can expect the competition to be tight.
Over the next few months, we’ll have a better idea of who is likely to qualify based on the PRCA world standings. Check out the NFR official website to see updates on the contestant roster and who will head to Las Vegas for the 2025 National Finals Rodeo.
FAQ
When Does the National Finals Rodeo Begin?
According to the NFR website, the 2025 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo will kick off on December 4th, 2025, at the Thomas & Mack Center. Stay tuned for more updates on the NFR event and the 2025 Downtown Hoedown lineup.
When Is the National Rodeo Finals in Vegas?
The next NFR event will take place between December 4th and December 13th in Las Vegas. Check the NFR website for the latest competition schedules and details on the event.
How Much Are Tickets to the Las Vegas National Finals Rodeo?
The price of NFR tickets will depend on the event, date and seating location. Typically, you’ll see tickets ranging from $75 to $700. You can also choose between single performance tickets, four-day packs or six-day packs. Bundling your tickets will save you money if you plan to attend multiple events during NFR.
The 2025 Downtown Hoedown at the Fremont Street Experience
The Fremont Street Experience will once again host the Downtown Hoedown in 2025. Whether you’re a diehard rodeo fan, a casual Yellowstone watcher or simply want to partake in the rodeo-adjacent festivities while in town, Downtown Hoedown is a party that definitely won’t disappoint. Check back for the latest info on the upcoming event.
