NFR 2026 TV Schedule: Nightly Rounds, Channels & Live Streaming
Schedule & Results
Follow all ten rounds of the 2026 National Finals Rodeo with the arena dates and US time-zone conversions in one place. Use your broadcaster’s guide for the actual television program window.
The ten-round 2026 schedule
| Round | Date | Pacific | Central | Eastern |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thu, Dec 3 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| 2 | Fri, Dec 4 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| 3 | Sat, Dec 5 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| 4 | Sun, Dec 6 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| 5 | Mon, Dec 7 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| 6 | Tue, Dec 8 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| 7 | Wed, Dec 9 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| 8 | Thu, Dec 10 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| 9 | Fri, Dec 11 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| 10 | Sat, Dec 12 | 5:45 p.m. | 7:45 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
The table uses the current official arena start for each performance, December 3–12 at Thomas & Mack Center. It is not a separate broadcaster announcement. A network may begin its pre-show earlier or carry additional programming after the round.
Which channel should you look for?
The official NFR viewing page identifies Cowboy Channel as the television destination. Find the network through your provider, confirm package access and locate the dated live performance. Network numbers and package names can differ across providers and service areas.
Our channel guide explains how to distinguish the network, your subscription and any provider app. If another channel advertises NFR-related programming, check the specific show rather than assuming it carries the full live round.
Before and after the main performance
Broadcast previews can explain contestants, arena conditions and the title race before the first event. Post-show coverage may recap results or show interviews. Those windows should be checked against the network’s own daily schedule; the arena timetable alone cannot establish their timing.
If using a television recorder, identify the correct program and leave an appropriate margin according to your provider’s controls. Check the recording afterward if you will depend on it instead of live viewing. Replay rights from a streaming service are a separate issue.
Streaming the rounds without cable
Cowboy+ is the digital destination linked by the organizer. Review its current NFR-specific offer and confirm that your chosen plan includes the Finals. Check supported devices, regional availability and replay rules before making a purchase.
A live-TV bundle can be another route only when its current package actually carries the required network and coverage. A broad sports lineup does not establish access. See how to watch without cable for the comparison checklist.
Theme nights and opening ceremonies
Themed evenings and opening performances can add another reason to choose a particular round. Use the organizer’s dated event details for the theme attached to your night; avoid assuming an old color theme or tribute schedule repeats each year.
A theme is not a different competition ticket unless the organizer says so. If you want to see the anthem or opening entertainment, plan to arrive or tune in before the main start and check the current ceremony information. Our opening-performances guide explains the distinction.
A schedule for viewers outside these time zones
Use the six-zone conversion table for Alaska, Hawaii and additional US planning notes. International viewers should convert the exact date from Las Vegas and inspect whether the result falls on the next day.
Check regional streaming rights separately from the clock conversion. Knowing the right time does not mean a service is licensed for your location. Ask the official provider about the country where you will watch.
NFR television schedule FAQ
Is every round at the same listed time?
The current official performance page lists 5:45 p.m. in Las Vegas. Check again for any amendments before your round.
Can I use this table as the pre-show timetable?
No. It lists arena performance starts. Obtain pre-show times from the broadcaster.
What if a guide shows yesterday’s round?
Inspect whether it is a replay and find the program carrying the current live performance.
Does a concert listing mean the rodeo starts later?
Arena performances, viewing parties and concerts can have separate schedules. Use the listing for the event you are attending.
Where are the confirmed results?
Use official NFR and governing-body results once competition occurs. Our winners guide explains the different standings.
Find the performance for your viewing night
During Finals week, match the Las Vegas date to the round table above. If you are overseas, your local calendar date may be the following day. Compare Canadian start times or Australia and New Zealand times before setting a reminder. The performance schedule and an earlier broadcast pre-show are different listings.
Choose a verified viewing plan, prepare your television setup or find a replay when you cannot watch live.