DES MOINES, Iowa (June 16, 2025) – The spotlight of the junior high rodeo world turns to Des Moines next week as the 2025 National Junior High Finals Rodeo (NJHFR) rides into the Iowa State Fairgrounds from June 22 through June 28, 2025. With competitors hailing from all 50 U.S. states, five Canadian provinces, Australia, and Mexico, this prestigious week-long event is the largest junior high rodeo in the world and a true celebration of youth talent, grit, and tradition.
Thousands of the top junior high school rodeo athletes will compete in 13 thrilling events ranging from bareback steer riding and bull riding to barrel racing, goat tying, team roping, and breakaway roping. Daily rodeo performances are scheduled at 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., culminating in the high-stakes Championship Round on Saturday, June 28 at 7 p.m. These rodeos are open to the public.
“The NJHFR is more than a competition, it's an experience that fosters sportsmanship, personal growth, and lifelong friendships,” said Catch Des Moines President and CEO Greg Edwards. “We are excited to welcome the world’s best young rodeo athletes to Des Moines for what promises to be an unforgettable week.”
“We are thrilled to be back in Des Moines, Iowa. The city, the Iowa State Fairgrounds, and local community are always incredibly welcoming,” said Gary Hawkes, vice president of marketing for NHSRA. “Last year, we welcomed over 1,300 contestants, and this year we’re expecting a similar turnout, potentially even closer to 1,400. It’s shaping up to be an electric week of world-class competition."
Rodeo fans and families can also enjoy the NJHFR Trade Show, running from June 21 – 28, open daily starting at 10 a.m. The trade show will feature a vibrant collection of western apparel, tack, crafts, and official rodeo merchandise, as well as food vendors and family-friendly attractions.
Beyond the arena, the NJHFR places a strong emphasis on education and opportunity. The National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) awards thousands of dollars in scholarships to student athletes each year, recognizing not just rodeo excellence but academic achievement and community involvement. These scholarships support the next generation of rodeo stars as they pursue higher education and future careers.
About Catch Des Moines
The Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, collectively known as Catch Des Moines, is the official destination marketing organization promoting and representing Greater Des Moines to leisure travelers and meeting/sports planners. Our focus is to increase visitors to the metro and elevate the visitor experience to drive economic success and enhance the quality of life in the 14 local Greater Des Moines communities we represent. For more information, visit catchdesmoines.com.