City: Fort Worth, TX

Category: Annual Events & Festivals

Telephone: 817-877-2400, 817-877-2420

Address: 3400 Burnett Tandy Dr.

Description: The official name for this three-week cowboy shindig and showcase for the world of ranching and farming is the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show. Begun just over 100 years ago, the nation’s longest-running such event begins in mid-January and lasts until early February, bringing thousands of exhibitors to town. An exposition for young and old patrons, the stock show fills massive halls at the Will Rogers complex with farm and ranch exhibits and more furred and feathered creatures than you can imagine. Kids from around the state bring the livestock they’ve raised for show and competition, with the junior steer show bringing well over $1 million in sales at auction. There’s a midway carnival, petting zoo, shopping by the acre, and lots of friendly folks in cowboy hats and boots. Plenty of beer and food—at concession stands and at Reata at the Rodeo, a sit-down steak house—keep the crowds well fueled. There’s a nightly rodeo, with matinees on weekends.