The National Western Stock Show: Denver’s Biggest Western Tradition (and What to Wear)

Every January, Denver transforms into the heart of the West as the National Western Stock Show rides into town. For more than 100 years, ranchers, rodeo fans, horse lovers, locals, and curious visitors have gathered to celebrate Western heritage, livestock, sport, and style.

At Gem Hats, we love this time of year — because the Stock Show is more than an event. It’s a feeling. A little dusty, a little glamorous, a little rowdy, and deeply rooted in craft, tradition, and pride.

Let’s talk about what makes the National Western Stock Show so special — and how to show up in style.

What Is the National Western Stock Show?

Held every January for 16 days, the National Western Stock Show is one of the biggest and longest-running Western events in the country. You’ll find:

🐎 Rodeo competitions

🐂 PBR bull riding

🐑 Stock dog trials

🐴 Horse shows

🎶 Live music

🥩 BBQ & fair food

🛍 Western vendors

👢 And so many incredible boots and hats

It attracts more than half a million visitors each year — from lifelong ranch families to city folks experiencing it for the first time. And in true Denver fashion, it’s the perfect blend of heritage + modern Western style.

Western Style at the Stock Show

A Stock Show outfit tells a story. Some people wear the hat they’ve had for 20 years. Some buy their first real felt. Some go all-in with fringe, turquoise, and a fresh pair of boots. But everyone — truly everyone — looks better in the right hat.

At Gem Hats, we specialize in custom, hand-shaped Western hats so your style actually feels like you. Whether you’re a ranch-real-deal-regular or you’re just leaning into your Yellowstone era, there’s a shape and style that fits your personality. Here are a few Stock Show–favorite styles:

The Cattleman Crown-A classic cowboy hat.

The Gus Crown-A pinched crown shaped lower in the front and left taller in the back.

The Baby Cowboy-A teardrop crown with a cowboy style brim.

We also help you choose your best color, brim width, western style hat bands, and custom branding-

So your hat feels intentional, elevated, and wearable long after the Stock Show leaves town.

What to Wear to the Stock Show (Hat Edition)

If you’re going to a rodeo event:

Go bold. A strong crease, wider brim, and deep-tone felt are timeless.

If you’re spending the day walking the grounds:

Comfort + personality. Neutral felts with a great band pair beautifully with denim, boots, and a cozy jacket.

If you’re traveling in from out of town:

Lean Western without feeling costumed. A handcrafted hat instantly gives your look authenticity.

And don’t worry — you don’t have to “already be a hat person.” We turn people into hat people every day.

Why a Custom Hat Makes the Experience Even Better

A Stock Show hat isn’t just a fashion choice — it’s a souvenir you’ll wear for years. Compared to mass-produced hats, a custom-shaped hat:

✔ Fits better

✔ Holds shape longer

✔ Matches your face + style

✔ Feels personal

✔ Ages beautifully

And if you’re local (or visiting Denver), you can come see us in-person to get fitted, shaped, and styled — the real Western way.

Visit Gem Hats in LoHi — and Book a Custom Appointment

Whether you're headed to the Stock Show, hitting a rodeo night, or just want to feel a little closer to the Western spirit, we’d love to help you find your perfect hat.

📍 We’re located in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood — easy to get to whether you’re local or just in town for the show. We are only 7 minutes away from the Denver Coliseum!

For fully custom hats, we recommend booking an appointment so we can give you the time, attention, and craftsmanship your hat deserves.

Book your custom Gem Hats appointment and let’s build your dream hat together.

🤠 See you at the Stock Show — and in LoHi.