View the Schedule for the NFR Event Live Start Here
Known as the “Super Bowl of Rodeo,” the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) is one of the most eagerly awaited events on the Western sports calendar. The best cowboys and cowgirls in the world gather in Las Vegas every December to compete in exciting activities including barrel racing, breakaway roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc, bull riding, and bareback. Fans can follow every ride and every moment from anywhere because the action is televised live. A typical live start schedule overview and instructions for watching and following the event in real time are provided below.
Summary and Dates
The NFR will take place at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas in 2025 from December 4 to December 13.
nfrexperience.com
Every evening, events usually start at 5:45 PM local time (Las Vegas time).
nfr-rodeo.com
As a result, there is prime time rodeo coverage every day, enabling viewers both domestically and abroad to check in after work
Start Times & Broadcast Information for Everyday Live
Below is a sample representation of the nightly live starts and how to watch the NFR:
Start Time and Date (Local, Las Vegas) Notes on Broadcasting and Streaming
Thursday, December 4, 5:45 p.m. First performance on opening night
nfr2022.com
Friday, December 5, 5:45 p.m. Night of regular events nfr2022.com
Sat., Dec. 6, 5:45 p.m. The busiest night for activities on nfr2022.com
Sun., Dec. 7, 5:45 p.m. The midweek routine starts on nfr2022.com.
Monday, December 8 at 5:45 p.m. Regular evening hours nfr-rodeo.com
Tuesday, December 9 at 5:45 p.m. Night of continuation nfr-rodeo.com
Wednesday, December 10 at 5:45 p.m. Late in the series
FinalsLasVegas.com/rodeo
Thursday, December 11 at 5:45 p.m. Final evening nfr-rodeo.com
Friday, December 12 at 5:45 p.m. Finals are approaching, nfr-rodeo.com
Sat., Dec. 13, 5:45 p.m. The evening of the grand finale
The rodeo action starts every night at approximately 5:45 PM, according to the timetable above. This regularity aids viewers in scheduling their attendance and viewing.
Access to Broadcast and Streaming
In 2025, NFR will be officially televised on the Cowboy Channel, which will cover every performance every night.
Nine meters
Parts of coverage may also be carried by RFD-TV and other networks focused on rural and rodeo areas.
Nine meters
Cowboy Channel Plus provides users with streaming access through apps or mobile devices.
Nine meters
The Cowboy Channel is part of the packages offered by several cable and satellite companies. Viewers looking for exact channel numbers may consult local listings.
As the event draws near, it’s a good idea to check the official NFR or Cowboy Channel websites or local listings for the most recent information, as broadcast times and availability might occasionally change.
Events Leading Up to and During the Show
The NFR experience encompasses a variety of planned events, exhibitions, and fan interactions in addition to the nightly performances. For example, the Las Vegas Convention Center hosts the “Cowboy Christmas” gift show every day, usually from morning to early evening, in conjunction with the rodeo.
To provide fans a chance to experience culture outside of the arena, additional events are planned throughout the day, including autograph sessions, movie screenings, rodeo clinics, concerts, and fan interactions.
Advice for Attendees and Viewers
Time zone conversion: Foreign or out-of-state viewers should convert 5:45 PM PT into their local time zones in order to see the show live, as Las Vegas is on Pacific Time.
Arrive early: Although the scheduled kickoff time is the live start time, pre-show activities, introductions, and opening ceremonies frequently start earlier.
Check for updates: Unexpected events, bad weather, or changes in programming might occasionally cause start times or broadcast channels to alter. The best place to get real-time updates is the official NFR website.
Requirements for streaming: Make sure the Cowboy Channel is available on your cable provider or streaming subscription, download Cowboy Channel Plus in advance, and test your device to prevent any issues.
International viewers: Some streaming services or providers may offer region-specific or delayed access to content for viewers who are not in the United States. Verify in advance if your area offers live coverage.
Requirements for streaming: Make sure the Cowboy Channel is available on your cable provider or streaming subscription, download Cowboy Channel Plus in advance, and test your device to prevent any issues.
International viewers: Some streaming services or providers may offer region-specific or delayed access to content for viewers who are not in the United States. Verify in advance if your area offers live coverage.
The National Finals Rodeo concludes by providing a clear and consistent nightly schedule: from December 4 through December 13, 2025, performances start at 5:45 PM local time. Fans worldwide may witness the thrill of every ride and competition in real time thanks to broadcast on The Cowboy Channel, RFD-TV, and Cowboy Channel Plus. To fully enjoy the NFR, make sure to combine this itinerary with the pre-show programming and accompanying fan festivities.
