Looking to occupy kids on winter break or relatives sticking around through New Year’s? The Arizona National Livestock Show, the largest of its kind in the Southwest, according to organizers, and an annual Phoenix tradition since 1948, takes place Dec. 27-31 at the Arizona State Fairgrounds.
During the event — where you can check out nearly 1,700 head of cattle, horses, sheep, goats and swine — cowboys from across Arizona saddle up for a competitive Ranch Rodeo. It tests skills such as Wild Cow Milking, Calf Branding, Stray Gathering, Trailer Loading and Saddle Bronc Riding. A Ranch Horse Competition demonstrates maneuvers commonly required in everyday ranch work.
There’s also a Western Art and Gear Show, chuck wagon and dutch oven cook-offs, a tractor pull, and a “Farm Experience” interactive area for children.
The $10 fee per vehicle includes admission and parking. For information and a schedule of events, call (602) 258-8568 or visit ANLS.org.
