Missing the Stock Show? Learn About Livestock, Virtually

The National Western Stock Show is one of Colorado’s oldest traditions. This January would have been the 115th annual Stock Show, but the decision was made to postpone the show for one year due to COVID-19. (The 115th will be held in January 2022). It’s only the second time in its history that the NWSS has been canceled – the last time was in 1915, due to an outbreak of “hoof and mouth disease” in livestock.

The NWSS provides many educational opportunities, and this year is no exception. Even though the show isn’t being held this year, Colorado State University has put together a fun “Adventure Guide” to the Stock Show. Kids (or the young at heart!) can download this activity book to learn fun facts about Colorado livestock and the history of the Stock Show. In addition, there are games, puzzles, and links to more educational resources online.

Educators can find additional resources for teaching kids about Colorado’s agriculture industry by searching our library’s online catalog. For example, Colorado Livestock offers a basic overview of the industry in our state. In addition, historic, primary source documents, such as Judging Livestock from 1927, can be fun ways to help kids explore the history of Colorado agriculture.