While you’re working hard to qualify for the National High School Finals Rodeo, we’re busy in Lincoln, Nebraska, getting the Sandhills Global Event Center ready to welcome you back in 2026 & 2027! We can’t wait to see you there!
First up: July 19-26, 2026
We’re excited to welcome you to Lincoln, Nebraska! Our vibrant city of nearly 300,000 offers plenty of hotel rooms, fantastic restaurants, family-friendly activities, and the state-of-the-art Sandhills Global Event Center—your NHSFR Lincoln headquarters.
With 400,000 square feet of indoor space set on scenic fairgrounds, the SGEC has undergone over $7 million in recent upgrades, including expanded campsites, a larger outdoor arena, and a brand-new covered grandstand.
RVUniverse Campgrounds at Sandhills Global Event Center has 1,300 camping spaces reserved for contestants. Plus, grocery stores, shopping, and restaurants are just around the corner, so you’ll have everything you need for a great stay!
Contestants will be parked in pre-assigned campsites within their state block. If camping in a group, requests need to be made with your state chapter’s secretary when reserving.
Bring the whole family for a rodeo vacation. Lincoln has over 70 hotels featuring more than 5,000 rooms, with even more lodging just 45 minutes away in Omaha.
There’s a reason Lincoln is consistently voted one of the best cities in the Midwest. When you’re not competing, enjoy our budding live-music scene, Saturday and Sunday farmer’s markets, golf courses, public pickleball courts, a zoo with more than 400 animals, and a minor league baseball team—there’s plenty to do for everyone!
This exciting event is made possible through the support of sponsors, supporters, and volunteers—making it a true community effort. Join us in celebrating the spirit of the rodeo by getting involved.
Sponsorship is a great way to get your brand noticed by a local, regional and national audience while supporting over $2 million in youth scholarships.
Contact Kathleen Orton at [email protected] or 402.441.6046 for more information.
We’re looking for a wide variety of quality trade show vendors with an array of unique merchandise that matches the shoppers we’re drawing to the NHSFR Lincoln in July 2026.
Contact Maggie Pickrel-Smith at [email protected] or 402.413.2080 for more information.
Volunteers are key to the success of the NHSFR Lincoln! Come join our fun team where you’ll be part of the family as we make participants feel welcome back in Nebraska.
Contact Kathleen Orton at [email protected] or 402.441.6046 for more information.
