Crowning Western Royalty: Miss Rodeo America Pageant

Each December, Las Vegas, Nevada transforms into the beating heart of rodeo culture, where the grit of the arena meets the glamour of neon, Las Vegas flair. Alongside the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, is one of the year’s most anticipated events, the Miss Rodeo America Pageant, where one lucky lady will earn the coveted crown and honor of representing the country as Miss Rodeo America.

Miss Rodeo America Pageant
November 29th – December 9th
South Point Hotel, Casino, & Spa

This year’s competition draws in Miss Rodeo America hopefuls from across the country, each vying for their chance to represent the beloved sport of rodeo on the national stage. With fierce competition ahead, time will only tell who will take home the 2026 Miss Rodeo America crown!

The Past Inspires the Present

The Miss Rodeo America Pageant first saddled up in Casper, Wyoming back in 1955, marking the start of a tradition that has carried the spirit of rodeo queens across generations. Today, the pageant calls Las Vegas, Nevada home, unfolding each December during the excitement of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

Though the backdrop has shifted from the plains of Wyoming to the bright lights of Vegas, one thing has never changed: state rodeo queens from across the nation ride in with grace, determination, and poise.

In 2025, the spotlight has brightly shone on Callie Mueller of Florence, South Dakota, who was crowned Miss Rodeo America 2025 at the South Point Hotel and Casino. Representing her state as Miss Rodeo South Dakota in 2024, Callie became the sixth woman from South Dakota to earn the national title. With Callie’s reign nearing its end, it’s time to see who the next Miss Rodeo America will be!

More than a Crown

For every young woman who wears a state crown, the dream of becoming Miss Rodeo America is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity they spend the entire year preparing for. As ambassadors of their home states, rodeo queens crisscross the country, carrying with them the stories of rodeo’s past and the promise of its future.

Their role goes far beyond appearances. They educate audiences on rodeo history and rules, share the significance of agriculture and ranching, and showcase the enduring beauty of the western lifestyle. Each queen is both a teacher and a trailblazer, proudly advocating for her state while studying tirelessly for the chance to represent these passions on the national level.

The Miss Rodeo America title is more than a sash and crown; it’s a year-long commitment to promoting rodeo and the western lifestyle. Nationwide travel, attending hundreds of rodeos, community events, and media appearances is just the beginning. Miss Rodeo America’s role is to bridge the gap between tradition and modern audiences, showing that rodeo is not only a sport but a way of life. When the crown of Miss Rodeo America is placed, it symbolizes not only personal achievement but also the collective spirit of the rodeo community.

“The Miss Rodeo America Pageant objective is to select a National Ambassador for the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association, its sponsors, and supporters. The primary mission of the process is that she will promote the western culture and way of life by educating the general public on topics including ranching and farming heritage, the agriculture industry, and the sport of rodeo. An additional outcome is to provide educational opportunities for these young women to be prepared for the leadership positions of tomorrow.”

Mission Statement
Miss Rodeo America, INC.

The Road to the Crown

Much like the cowboys competing at the Thomas & Mack Center, contestants for Miss Rodeo America spend years preparing for this moment. The competition is no small feat: it tests horsemanship, public speaking, personality, appearance, photogenics, and written knowledge. Each category reflects the qualities needed to represent professional rodeo across the country.

Say Hello to the 2026 Miss Rodeo America Contestants!

Rio Las Vegas: Your One-Stop-Shop for all things NFR!

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind NFR celebration as Cowboy Lifestyle Network partners with Rio Las Vegas to present the annual Rio Round-Up, happening December 4th-13th, 2025, in the heart of Masquerade Village Rio Event Stage near the casino floor. Catch every thrilling moment of the NFR in total comfort, with plenty of seating, multiple massive screens, and free admission. Whether you’re a die-hard rodeo fan or just soaking up the cowboy vibes, this exclusive event is your ticket to the ultimate NFR getaway. With the crowd buzzing and cameras flashing, it’s the perfect place to celebrate your favorite Miss Rodeo America contestant!

Wrangler National Finals Rodeo
December 4th – 13th, 2025
Thomas & Mack Center
Las Vegas, Nevada

About the Author:

Taryn Cantrell

Biography:

Taryn Cantrell is an Arizona native with a lifelong connection to the rodeo arena. From her roots in barrel racing to her role as the 2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen and her involvement with the Cowgirls Historical Foundation, Taryn celebrates her western heritage with enthusiasm and authenticity. Taryn holds a degree in Vocal Performance from Arizona State University, allowing her to merge her passion for music with her love of cowboy culture. As a singer and bassist, Taryn performs with bands across Phoenix and beyond including Great American Regret, Honey Marie Knight, and Sareena Dominguez. Taryn is passionate about blending her diverse interests to offer an authentic and engaging perspective on journalism. Her goal is to connect readers to the events, concerts, and celebrations that matter most, bringing them closer to the experiences she treasures. Whether you’re attending your very first rodeo or adding another to your collection of memories, Taryn is here to guide you every step of the way!

CLN Community Sponsor