The City of Fort Worth unveiled a significant upgrade to its livestock facilities on December 17, 2024, with the grand opening of the refurbished Sheep & Swine Barns and a brand-new show arena.
This $40 million project at the Will Rogers Memorial Center represents a major step forward in modernizing the site while preserving its deep-rooted legacy. The enhancements are set to welcome exhibitors, spectators, and livestock enthusiasts to the 2025 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, which kicks off in January, per the Fort Worth Report.
The renovated facilities have been designed with versatility in mind.
While they continue to host traditional livestock exhibitions, the space can now accommodate receptions, banquets, trade shows, and exercise events for horse shows. Mayor Mattie Parker praised the effort, emphasizing that the Stock Show & Rodeo, a cornerstone of the city’s identity, deserves a top-tier venue. This public-private partnership between Fort Worth and the Stock Show demonstrates a commitment to excellence and community heritage.
The improvements feature a comprehensive list of upgrades to enhance the experience for both animals and attendees.
Increased ventilation and insulation ensure a more comfortable environment, while upgraded lighting and electrical systems support modern event needs. A new show arena, strategically positioned between the two main barns, offers additional event space. For horse exhibitors, the addition of 325 new stalls and expanded warm-up areas addresses long-standing demands for more capacity and convenience.
This project is the third phase of a larger initiative to modernize the Will Rogers Memorial Center, originally built in 1948.
The entire renovation plan consists of four phases, with this latest effort marking a significant milestone. The $40 million cost was evenly split between the city and the Stock Show, reflecting their joint investment in Fort Worth’s cultural and economic future. Once the improvements were complete, the city retained ownership of the upgraded facilities.
Hahnfeld Hoffer Stanford, which recently merged with GHC Architects, was responsible for bringing this vision to life. The architects focused on maintaining the site’s historical character while infusing it with modern functionality. Their design seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, ensuring the venue will serve the community for future generations.
Visitors to the 2025 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo will experience these improvements firsthand from January 17 through February 8. The upgraded facilities promise to enhance the event’s reputation as one of the premier livestock shows in the country. With modern amenities and expanded capabilities, the Stock Show is poised to continue drawing large crowds and supporting the region’s agricultural legacy.