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Las Vegas' Premier NFR Watch Party

This isn’t just rodeo. This is Tradition.

 

December 3 – 12, 2026

 

Rio Round-Up brings together everything fans love about NFR under one roof.

 

Every evening, thousands of rodeo fans gather inside Rio Hotel Las Vegas to cheer on every ride during our massive watch party before the celebration continues with live country music, western themed games, giveaways and unforgettable moments hosted by World Champion Rodeo Clown Matt Merritt.

Whether you’re coming from the arena or making Rio Hotel Las Vegas your nightly tradition, there’s always something happening before, during and after the rodeo.

Every Night at Rio Round-Up

    Experience More With Rio Round-Up

      Rio Round-Up Live Entertainment

      Alex Key

      Thursday 12/3 – Alex Key

      Matt Farris

      Friday 12/4 – Matt Farris

      ATJ and Regresso

      Saturday 12/5 – ATJ & Regresso

      Nathan Dean performing

      Sunday 12/6 – Nathan Dean & The Damn Band

      Kristen Merlin

      Monday 12/7 – Kristen Merlin

      Singer Gunnar Latham with a guitar

      Tuesday 12/8 – Gunnar Latham

      Wednesday 12/9 – Gage Gardiner

      Thursday 12/10 – The Martin Boys

      Friday 12/11 – Neon Prophets

      Saturday 12/12 – Western Fusion Band

      DJ Du with a DJ equipment in the desert with the sunseting in the mountain

      Late Night 12/3, 12/4, 12/7, 12/8, 12/9 – DJ Du

      Rodeo Rockstar Revival in front of an American flag

      Late Night 12/5, 12/6, 12/10, 12/11, 12/12 – Rodeo Rockstar Redstreak Revival

      Matt Merritt photo

      Hosted by Matt Merritt

      Matt Merritt isn’t just your host. He’s part of what makes Rio Round-Up unlike any other watch party in Las Vegas.

       

      As a World Champion Rodeo Clown, Matt brings the energy, humor and personality that make every night unforgettable. Throughout the live NFR watch party, he’ll keep the crowd engaged with interactive games, sponsor giveaways, audience participation and plenty of laughs, creating an experience that feels like you’re part of the show.

       

      No two nights are ever exactly the same.

      Rio Hotel Ipanema Tower Room

      Stay Where the Tradition Lives

      Make Rio your headquarters for NFR week.

      Enjoy spacious renovated suites, incredible dining, casino excitement, live entertainment and direct access to everything happening during Rio Round-Up.

      Book early to secure the best available rates during one of Las Vegas’ busiest weeks.

      Book Your Stay

      FAQs

      What is Rio Round-Up?
      Rio Round-Up is Rio's ten day National Finals Rodeo watch party featuring live NFR broadcasts, interactive games, entertainment, shopping, food and family friendly activities.
      Is Rio Round-Up free?
      General admission to the watch party is free. VIP seating packages may also be available for purchase.
      When is Rio Round-Up?
      Rio Round-Up takes place December 3 through 12, 2026 during National Finals Rodeo week.
      Who hosts Rio Round-Up?
      World Champion Rodeo Clown Matt Merritt hosts Rio Round-Up each evening with games, giveaways and live audience interaction.
      Where is Rio Round-Up?
      Rio Round-Up takes place at Rio Event Stage inside Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
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