University of Nevada, Las Vegas Celebrates 40 Years of the National Finals Rodeo at Thomas & Mack Center

Celebrating Four Decades of Rodeo Excellence

The National Finals Rodeo (NFR) has become a cornerstone of Las Vegas’s winter calendar, and for the past forty years it has called the University of Nevada, Las Vegas’s Thomas & Mack Center home. In December 2025 the venue hosted a special gathering of dignitaries, past champions, and community leaders to mark the 40th anniversary of the partnership that has turned a once quiet holiday month into a bustling showcase of athletic skill and entertainment.

Why the NFR Matters to Las Vegas

Before the NFR arrived in 1985, the Strip and downtown were largely dormant from Thanksgiving through Christmas. Hotels closed showrooms, staff were furloughed, and the city’s economy slowed dramatically. The introduction of a world‑class rodeo event shifted that narrative, creating a surge of visitors, media attention, and revenue that reverberated through casinos, restaurants, and local businesses.

Key Milestones of the 40‑Year Relationship

• 1985 – The NFR relocates from Oklahoma City to the newly opened Thomas & Mack Center.
• 2005 – The arena undergoes a major renovation, adding a second entrance tunnel and upgraded livestock handling facilities.
• 2015 – The 30th anniversary celebration includes a bronze statue honoring the partnership.
• 2025 – The 40th anniversary event features a press conference, a tribute to past champions, and a look ahead to the 2035 extension.

The Thomas & Mack Center: A Venue Built for the NFR

When the arena first opened, its oval shape and 17,000‑seat capacity made it uniquely suited to the demands of professional rodeo. The layout allows for clear sightlines from every seat, and the two‑deck design keeps fans close to the action while providing ample space for roping, bull riding, and barrel racing.

Design Features That Enhance the Fan Experience

• Open ends: The arena’s open ends provide natural ventilation and unobstructed views, a feature that has been praised by riders and spectators alike.

• Dedicated livestock areas: Separate entrances for bulls, broncs, and horses reduce stress on animals and streamline event logistics.

• Suite and hospitality upgrades: Over the years, the arena has added state‑of‑the‑art suites and hospitality rooms, ensuring that corporate partners and VIP guests receive a premium experience.

Continuous Improvements

Renovations have kept the Thomas & Mack Center at the forefront of rodeo venues. The addition of a second entrance tunnel in 2005, for example, has cut down on livestock handling time and improved safety for both animals and staff. The arena’s management team works closely with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) to incorporate feedback and implement best practices.

Economic and Community Impact

Every year, more than 170,000 fans fill the arena for the ten‑day NFR. This influx of visitors translates into significant economic activity for Las Vegas. Hotels, casinos, restaurants, and retail outlets all benefit from the increased foot traffic.

Quantifying the Impact

• Revenue: The NFR has generated an estimated $30 million in direct economic impact for the city during the event period.

• Employment: The event supports over 1,200 temporary jobs, ranging from ticketing and concessions to security and event staff.

• Community engagement: Local schools and community organizations partner with UNLV to offer educational tours, rodeo clinics, and volunteer opportunities.

These figures underscore the importance of the NFR to the Las Vegas community and highlight why UNLV and the PRCA have committed to a partnership that extends through at least 2035.

Behind the Scenes: The Team That Makes It Happen

While the roar of the crowd and the spectacle of the rodeo are front‑and‑center, the event’s success depends on a dedicated workforce. UNLV’s facilities team, led by Executive Director Mike Newcomb, coordinates every detail from parking to cleanup.

Staffing and Operations

• Full‑time core: 80 employees manage the arena’s day‑to‑day operations.

• Part‑time event crew: Hundreds of volunteers and temporary staff assist with ticketing, ushering, concessions, and technical support.

• Animal care: A specialized team ensures that livestock are handled safely and humanely, maintaining the high standards expected by the PRCA.

Training and Development

UNLV invests in ongoing training for staff, covering topics such as crowd management, emergency response, and customer service. This focus on excellence has earned the arena a reputation as one of the best rodeo venues in the country.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the NFR in Las Vegas

The 2035 extension gives both UNLV and the PRCA ample time to plan for the next milestone: the 50th anniversary. Discussions are already underway to incorporate new technologies, expand hospitality offerings, and deepen community outreach.

Potential Enhancements

• Wider concourses and upgraded seating to improve accessibility.
• Expanded suite options with premium amenities for corporate partners.
• Enhanced digital experiences, such as real‑time statistics and interactive fan zones.
• Greater emphasis on sustainability, including waste reduction and energy‑efficient lighting.

These initiatives will ensure that the Thomas & Mack Center remains a premier venue for the NFR and continues to serve as a catalyst for Las Vegas’s economic and cultural vitality.

Take Action

Whether you’re a student, a local business owner, or a rodeo enthusiast, there are several ways to get involved and support the partnership that has shaped Las Vegas’s winter season.

• Explore UNLV’s community partnership programs and discover how you can contribute to future events.
• Learn more about the National Finals Rodeo schedule and plan your visit.
• Join the UNLV alumni network to stay connected with fellow community members.
• Contact the UNLV events office for partnership opportunities and find out how your organization can play a role in the next decade of the NFR.

By engaging with UNLV and the NFR, you help sustain a tradition that brings excitement, economic growth, and community pride to Las Vegas every December.