Having grown up in Southern California, I was more a beach bum than a horsey person when I relocated to Denver nearly 28 years ago.
In fact, one thing I completely rejected about my new hometown was anything to do with western wear, western culture or cows.
My boots were ski boots, and my jeans were definitely not boot cut. I attended the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo a couple of times, and while it was somewhat fun to watch the little kids chase pigs and the high school girls proudly carry flags on their horses, I couldn’t stand the smell. The odor of cows, pigs, horses and fried food definitely got me down.
About three years ago, I got a new attitude. I went to the stock show twice that year and once the next year and had a blast. I embraced my “new” hometown’s culture and even bought cowboy (or girl) boots. I love them! It’s true what they say, those boots are comfortable!
So from a novice’s perspective, here are the top 5 things you should see or do at this year’s Stock Show. It runs two more weeks, until Sunday, January 24th at the Denver Coliseum. Just follow your nose and you’ll find it.
1. The Rodeo: Bareback riding is an awesome feat. Watching those guys ride their bucking broncos gives new meaning to buns of steel. The barrel racing is an exacting sport of speed and finesse. The rodeo is an inspiring ode to Americana and regardless of the smell, something everyone should see.
This post continues at LifeStyle Denver.
Comments(2)