Nebraska’s Big Rodeo’s 100th anniversary drew everyone to Burwell in July 2021. We saw visitors from all over the globe come to the small community of Burwell, Nebraska, to watch exciting and memorable rodeo actions.
We can’t wait for NBR to return in 2022, scheduled between Wednesday, July 27- Saturday, July 30, at its usual location in Burwell, Nebraska.
The address is 46710 L St, Burwell, NE 68823, United States, for those driving to the venue.
NBR always provides a one-of-a-kind experience, and we anticipate that the 2022 event won’t be exceptional. Some epic competitions to expect at the 2022 Nebraska’s Big Rodeo are Professional Rodeo, Bull Riding, Junior Steer Riding, Chuck Wagon Races, Wild Horse Races, and Chariot Races.
These competitions are not the usual ones you’ll find at most rodeo events in the United States. Therefore, make time to either attend the event in Burwell, or you can watch the entire rodeo action from the comfort of your home or on the go.
Keep reading to find out how to watch Nebraska’s Big Rodeo 2022 wherever you are. You don’t want to miss an epic-filled competition like this one.
Venue | 46710 L St, Burwell, NE |
Start Date | Wednesday, July 28 |
End Date | Saturday, July 31 |
Start Time | 7:40 PM PDT |
TV Network | The Cowboy Channel, CowboyChannelPlus |
How to watch Nebraska’s Big Rodeo (NBR) Live Stream
Without wasting your time, the most straightforward option of watching Nebraska’s Big Rodeo during the 4-day performance is the Cowboy Channel Plus (www.cowboyschannelplus.com).
With this option, you don’t have to travel to Burwell, Nebraska, to watch the live-action of rodeo events expected on July 2022. What’s more? You can stream NBR performances in HD via your smartphone by downloading the Cowboy Channel Plus app, readily available for iOS and Android.
Stream NBR on The Cowboy Channel
The Cowboy Channel has become the first 24/7 TV network to feature the western lifestyle and western sports since December 27, 2017. And after several deals, you can access the channel by tuning to DIRECTV Channel 603.
Here are some of the options you can use to access the Cowboy Channel to watch NBR 2022.
- The Cowboy Channel Plus App
- Sling TV’s Heartland Package
- AT&T (Channel 566)
- Verizon FiOS TV
- Charter Spectrum
- Suddenlink
- Comcast
If you don’t know where the Cowboy Channel is available in your location, click here to find out. You’ll need to start by keying your zip code followed by your pay-tv provider, then hit “Continue.”
Wrangler Network
The Wrangler Network is the best option for rodeo fans living outside of Canada wishing to watch Nebraska’s Big Rodeo actions as they happen at Wrangler Network. You can watch all the live coverage of rodeos and bull-riding competitions from across the country on this Network. You can also watch the highlights and statistics of the previous and upcoming events via the Wrangler Network.
CBC
You’ll need to access CBCSports.ca to watch the NBR live stream broadcast. Still, you can also enjoy daily television coverage of Nebraska’s Big Rodeo 2022 on CBC TV Sportsnet and Sportsnet ONE.
Dish Network
If you don’t fancy prices hikes when purchasing digital streaming services, the best option is the Dish Network. It offers a standard fee of $19.99 per month for its Dish Welcome Pack that doesn’t fluctuate as it’s common with other streaming services like Xfinity or DirecTV. You’ll enjoy watching your favorite shows from over 40 channels provided. If you already have a Dish Network subscription, you can watch NBR 2022 on Cowboy Channel 232 (HD).
DirecTV Now
By now, you’re aware that AT&T TV Now is the parent’s name for DirecTV Now, and they are the same thing. For only $40 per month, you can watch up to more than 65 channels. Additionally, you can also take advantage of the 7-day free trial by signing up during the week of Nebraska’s Big Rodeo 2022 to watch for free by selecting the Cowboy Channel 603 (HD). Remember to cancel the free trial before its expiration for free of charge. DirecTV Now also offers a 55% off streaming packages discount for its senior members.
Cox
Like DirecTV Now, Cox also has a senior member discount of 30% off basic cable packages. These usual target customers who are 60 years old and above, earn less than $24,000 and are eligible for the local Council on Aging. You can watch NBR 2020 live-action through Channel 260 (HD). There are now Cowboy Channels on every primary MSO channel, including Suddenlink channel 365, Charter Spectrum, DISH channel 232, AT&T U-Verse channel 566, Verizon FiOS channel 246, Mediacom, Comcast, and Cox.
RFD-TV Now
Another excellent option for watching NBR 2022 including NFR is the RFD-TV Now, which offers real-time live programming and on-demand events. RFD-TV Now provides access to 90+ shows such as daily broadcasts of Market Day Report, The Best of the Marty Stuart Show, Ag PHD, FarmHer, Rural Evening News, Opry Encore, Hee Haw, etc.
RELATED NEWS: Watch Caldwell Night Rodeo 2022 live stream CNR online
NBR Classic Events
Bareback Riding
Bareback Riding combines extreme physical strength with the ability to adjust to the motions of the horse in a split second. It is one of rodeo’s most physically demanding events, taking a heavy toll on the cowboy’s body. A successful ride depends on the cowboy’s spurring technique and his ability to look good while being tossed about on the back of the bucking bronc. As there is nothing attached to the horse’s head, the cowboy never knows exactly where that horse is going, and must take what suprises come in stride. The cowboy once again is required to hang on with one hand only to a specialized piece of equipment called a bareback rigging which fits over the withers (top of the back above the shoulders) and is attached by a cinch around the belly.
Saddle Bronc Riding
Saddle Bronc Riding is a classic rodeo event requiring strength, style, grace and precise timing. The rider must synchronize his moves with the motion of the horse, the performance goal being a smooth ride and a high score. A thick rope rein is attached to the horses halter and the cowboy is seated in a special “bronc saddle”. If the rider touches any part of the horse or his own body with his free hand he is disqualified.
Bull Riding
Bull Riding is the most dangerous event in rodeo and likewise the most popular with spectators. Every bull is unique, with different dispositions and styles of bucking. Some bulls buck straight ahead, some are “spinners”, bucking and jumping in tight circles and some bulls, the “bad” bulls, have only one thing in mind, physical revenge. Serious injury or death are always a possibility to riders in this event. The bulls used in this event weigh in at a ton or more and often have dangerous horns. Bull riding requires balance, flexibility, coordination, quick reflexes and intense physical strength. Courage is also a prerequisite for a bull rider. Riders are judged on their form and style and are disqualified if they touch the animal with the free hand.
Steer Wrestling
Steer Wrestling is one of the quickest events in rodeo and also one of the most challenging. The cowboy must leap onto the steer from a galloping horse and wrestle the steer to the ground. The cowboy is assisted on his left by a hazer that helps to keep the steer moving in a straight line. Steers usually weigh more than twice the weight of a cowboy so strength coupled with speed and precision are important.
Tie Down Roping
Tie Down Roping showcases the skills of both the cowboy and his horse. The cowboy must throw his rope accurately and the horse must pull back hard enough to take of the slack in the rope, but not so hard as too pull the calf of it’s feet. Horses are trained to come to a stop after the calf is caught and to watch the calf at all times, keeping the rope tight. After the cowboy has tied the calf’s legs, the cowboy mounts his horse and moves forward to create slack in the rope. For a qualifying score, the calf must stay tied and not kick free for six seconds. The combination of the cowboy’s skill with a rope, coordination and sprinting ability and the horse’s athleticism come into play in this fast paced event.
Team Roping
Team roping also known as heading and heeling is a rodeo event that features a steer (typically a Corriente ) and two mounted cowboys. A rope of designated length determined by the length of the box is fastened around the steer’s neck which is used to ensure that the steer gets a head start. On one side of the chute is the header whose job is to rope the steer around the horns, neck or half-head, and turn the steer to the left. On the other side of the chute is the heeler whose job is to rope the steer around the hind legs.
The header sits on his horse to the left of the steer in an area called the box . A taut rope fastened with an easily broken string called the barrier runs in front of the header and is fastened to the rope on the steer. When the header is ready, he calls for the steer and the chute help trips a lever opening the doors. The suddenly freed steer breaks out running. When the steer reaches the end of the rope, the string breaks and simultaneously releases the barrier. The header must rope the steer and then take a dally , that is a couple of wraps of the rope around the horn of the saddle. Speed is important and some have lost fingers in this event. Once the header has made the dally, he will turn his horse and the steer will follow, still running.
The heeler waits until the header has turned the steer. When he has a clear way, he throws a loop of rope under the running steer’s hind legs and catches them. As soon as the steer is stretched out, an official drops a flag and the time is taken. The steer is released and trots off. There is a 5 second penalty for roping only one hind leg and a 10 second penalty for breaking the barrier.
Barrel Racing
Barrel racing , is a rodeo event that features a horse or barrel racer and one rider, running a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels in a triangular arrangement.
The cowgirl will take a running start on his/her horse and ride towards the first barrel. At the first barrel, a rider should come at a slight angle. It’s easier on the horse if you don’t come at it straight on. They must make a complete turn around the barrel then race toward the second barrel. At the second barrel, they will again make a complete turn, which means they will make the turn in the opposite direction as the first barrel then accelerate toward the third barrel. At the third barrel they will again make a complete loop in the same direction as the second barrel and then run back across the starting line which also serves as the finish line.
Breakaway Roping
Breakaway roping is a women’s event in professional rodeo and is a variation of tie down roping where a calf is roped, but not thrown and tied. Once the rope is around the calf’s neck, the roper brings the horse to a sudden stop. The rope is tied to the saddle horn with a string. When the calf hits the end of the rope, the rope is pulled tight and the string breaks. The breaking of the string marks the end of the run. The rope usually has a small white flag at the end that makes the moment the rope breaks more easily seen by the judge. The fastest time wins. The rope is usually shorter than a rope used in the tie down roping. The horse’s ability to start quick and stop quick is a must. The winning runs will usually only take one or two seconds depending on the length of the barrier.
Nebraska’s Big Rodeo schedule of events
NBR returns 2022, with main performances expected to start at 7:00 PM each night starting on Wednesday, July 27, and ending on Saturday, July 30.
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
8 AM: Barrel Racing Slack
10 AM: 4-H Small Animal Show
Noon-5 PM: NBR Museum at Parish Center
4 PM-8 PM: 4-H Exhibit Hall and Open Class Exhibits Open
4 PM-11 PM: NBR General Store Open on Midway (NBR souvenirs and merchandise)
5 PM: Kids Tractor Pull
5 PM: Commercial, Ag Exhibits & Vendors open on the Midway
5 PM: Carnival Opens
6:30 PM-1 AM Bull Pen Beer Garden~~6:30 PM–Performance End……West Side Beer Garden
7:00 PM: NEBRASKA’S BIG RODEO PERFORMANCE
10 PM-12 AM: Finch on the Run (DJ) FCLLA Teen Dance at the dance pavilion
Thursday, July 28, 2022
8 AM: PRCA Steer Roping
9 AM: 4-H Livestock Show
10 AM-8 PM: 4-H Exhibit Hall Open
2:30 PM-5 PM: DAR Quilt Show, High School Commons Room
4 PM-8 PM: Open Class Exhibits Open
4 PM-11 PM: NBR General Store Open on Midway (NBR souvenirs and merchandise)
5 PM: Commercial, Ag Exhibits & Vendors open on the Midway
5 PM: Carnival Opens
6:30 PM-1 AM: Bull Pen Beer Garden~~6:30 PM–Performance End: West Side Beer Garden
7:00 PM: NEBRASKA’S BIG RODEO PERFORMANCE
10 PM-1 AM: Prodigal Son in Bull Pen Beer Garden
10 PM-12 AM: Finch on the Run (DJ) FCCLA Teen Dance at the dance pavilion
Friday, July 29, 2022
9 AM: Timed Event Slack
9 AM-5 PM: DAR Quilt Show, High School Commons Room
10 AM: 4-H Livestock Swine Show
30 minutes after Swine Show: Round Robin for Champion Sr. Showman (Beef, Sheep, Swine, Goats, Horses)
10 AM-8 PM: 4-H Exhibit Hall Open
Noon-5 PM: NBR Museum at Parish Center
Noon-11 PM: NBR General Store Open on Midway (NBR souvenirs and merchandise)
4 PM-8 PM: Open Class Exhibits Open
5 PM: Many Moccasins Indian Dance Troupe on the Midway
5 PM: Commercial, Ag Exhibits & Vendors open on the Midway
5 PM: Carnival Opens
6:30 PM: 4-H Parade of Champions
6:30 PM-1 AM: Bull Pen Beer Garden ~~6:30 PM–Performance End: West Side Garden
7:00 PM: NEBRASKA’S BIG RODEO PERFORMANCE
10 PM-1 AM: Luke Mills in Bull Pen Beer Garden
10 PM-1 AM: Finch on the Run (DJ) FCCLA Teen Dance at the dance pavilion
Saturday, July 30, 2022
10 AM: Rodeo Parade (Downtown)
11 AM-2 PM: DAR Quilt Show, High School Commons Room
Noon-5 PM: NBR Museum at Parish Center
Noon-11 PM: NBR General Store Open on Midway (NBR souvenirs and merchandise)
1 PM: Nebraska’s Little Rodeo
1 PM-7 PM: 4-H Exhibit Hall Open
4 PM: 4-H Livestock Premium Auction
4 PM-8 PM: Open Class Exhibits Open
5 PM: Many Moccasins Indian Dance Troupe on the Midway
5 PM: Commercial, Ag Exhibits & Vendors open on the Midway.
5 PM: Carnival Opens
6:30 PM-1 AM: Bull Pen Beer Garden~~6:30 PM–Performance End: West Side Beer Garden
7:00 PM: NEBRASKA’S BIG RODEO PERFORMANCE
10 PM-1 AM: Dylan Bloom in Bull Pen Beer Garden
10 PM-1 AM: Finch on the Run (DJ) FCCLA Teen Dance at the dance pavilion
The schedule can change as the event nears, and you can stay updated by checking out here.
Nebraska’s Big Rodeo – Last Words
Let’s touch a little bit on how Nebraska’s Big Rodeo came to happen to date.
The city’s people founded a community celebration in Burwell in 1921, and Rodeos were started in the town to reflect its western roots. The first rodeo competition took place at the historical arena of Burwell in September 1921, and since then, nearly every world champion rodeo rider has encountered the arena.
As for Burwell and NBR, both communities went through a revitalization period in the 1990s and 2000s. Spectators are now flocking to see the annual event, which their parents and grandparents also enjoyed, with the nearby Calamus Lake and the town’s small-town, rustic appeal.
Apart from NBR, the 40-acres ground arena with wooden-covered grandstands and a ¾ miles track also hosts the Garfield County Fair. Both of these competitions are held annually at one of the world’s largest outdoor rodeo arenas.
To read more about the competition (s) or arena, click here.