From Rodeo On SI · · 1m 40s
National High School Rodeo Moves Venue for 2027
National High School Finals Rodeo shifts venue to Gillette, Wyoming for 2027 after 2026 weather issues.
In brief
National High School Finals Rodeo shifts venue to Gillette, Wyoming for 2027 after 2026 weather issues. The National High School Finals Rodeo moves to Gillette, Wyoming for 2027 due to 2026 weather problems at Nebraska facility. Originally reported by Rodeo On SI.
Quick answers
- Why Move Now?
- After 2026 weather issues, officials decided the NHSFR could not wait another year to address the venue problem.
- What is the key takeaway from National High School Rodeo Moves Venue for 2027?
- The National High School Finals Rodeo moves to Gillette, Wyoming for 2027 due to 2026 weather problems at Nebraska facility.
National High School Finals Rodeo
The National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR) is the crown jewel of the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA).
Growing Event Challenges
As the event grows, fewer facilities can handle thousands of contestants, families, and equine athletes for a week.
2026 Weather Problems
Power outages and flooding from extreme weather damaged temporary horse stalls and made RV hookups unusable.
2027 Venue Change Announced
On Tuesday, September 15, 2026, NHSRA shared they would move the 2027 NHSFR to a new location and date.
2026 Contestant Numbers
In 2021, there were 1,600 contestants; by 2026, the event had just under 1,800 participants.
Nebraska Facility Too Small
Officials determined the NHSFR had outgrown the Nebraska facility due to increased contestant numbers.
2030 Move to Lazy E
The NHSRA announced a 10-year contract for the NHSFR to move to the Lazy E in Guthrie, Okla. starting in 2030.
2027 Returns to Gillette
The NHSFR will return to Cam-Plex Event Center in Gillette, Wyo., July 11, 17, 2027.
Gillette History
Gillette has hosted the NHSFR 13 times in the past 37 years, according to Cowboy State Daily.
Why Move Now?
After 2026 weather issues, officials decided the NHSFR could not wait another year to address the venue problem.
What matters most
The National High School Finals Rodeo moves to Gillette, Wyoming for 2027 due to 2026 weather problems at Nebraska facility.
