Introduction

If you’re planning to attend the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas this December, you’re likely asking: who is performing at the NFR in 2024? The good news: alongside elite rodeo competitors, the event features an impressive slate of country-music performances and opening acts throughout the 10-day event. Whether you’re there for the bull riding or the live music, you’ll find major stars, special guest appearances and plenty of entertainment to match the high-stakes rodeo action. Below, we break down what you can expect: from main-stage shows at the arena to opening-act line-ups and after-hours concerts across The Strip.

Main Arena Concerts During NFR Week

One of the highlight questions when asking who is performing at the NFR in 2024 is: who’s on the big arena stages alongside the rodeo events? Several top-tier artists will appear during the week, offering a mix of traditional country, crossover acts and modern hits. According to listings, stars include Brad Paisley, Lainey Wilson, Cody Johnson, Shania Twain and Garth Brooks.

For example, Brad Paisley is scheduled for a three-night run (Dec 6-8) at Encore Theater for his “One Man Six Strings” show.Also, Lainey Wilson is booked for Dec 14 at MGM Grand Garden Arena. These are major draws in their own right, and for many attendees the music is just as much reason to secure tickets as the rodeo competition.

From a practical viewpoint, this means that when you ask who is performing at the NFR in 2024, you should plan for multiple venues, times and ticket types—some acts are included with rodeo tickets, others require separate concert tickets. If music is part of your agenda, booking well in advance is wise.

Opening Acts & Pre-Rodeo Entertainment

While the arena concerts grab headlines, the question who is performing at the NFR in 2024 also encompasses the opening-act lineup, which kicks off nightly before the actual competition and draws large crowds.
According to the official NFR Experience site and reports, the opening-act roster includes:

• Zach Top (Dec 6)

• Easton Corbin (Dec 7)

• Gabby Barrett (Dec 9)

• Mae Estes (Dec 12)

• Wynonna Judd (Dec 13)

These performances happen right before the rodeo performance each evening (generally around 5:45 p.m. PT at the Thomas & Mack Center).The opening acts add value for ticket holders and turn the arena into a full evening entertainment venue—rather than just rodeo rounds.

So when you consider who is performing at the NFR in 2024, don’t just look at the headline names—these opening acts provide an excellent opportunity to catch up-and-coming stars or artists with strong fan bases in the rodeo crowd.

Side Concerts on the Las Vegas Strip

An important angle to the question who is performing at the NFR in 2024 lies off-site—but still connected to the rodeo schedule. During NFR week, The Strip becomes a country-music playground: hotel venues, casino theaters and after-hours shows host major artists. According to coverage, acts such as Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, Thomas Rhett and Colter Wall have dedicated shows during the week.

For example:

• Garth Brooks performs multiple nights at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace (Dec 5, 7, 8, 12, 14)

• Shania Twain keeps her PL LIVE residency at Planet Hollywood during the same period (Nov 29–Dec 14)

• Thomas Rhett performs Dec 6, 7, 13 & 14 at BleauLive Theater inside Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

These shows offer additional value for rodeo attendees who want a full experience: catch competition rounds, then walk across the Strip for a headline concert. When you ask who is performing at the NFR in 2024, these off-arena shows are key to planning your trip—especially if you’re combining rodeo and music.

Ticketing, Planning & What To Expect

Knowing who is performing at the NFR in 2024 is half the story—knowing how to catch them is the other half. First, note that rodeo tickets and concert tickets may differ. Some headline acts are included in rodeo tickets; others require separate purchases. Opening acts are often included. Official sources show opening-acts included in the rodeo experience.

Second, venue: The main rodeo takes place at the Thomas & Mack Center, but many concerts during NFR week take place at external venues—the Colosseum, Planet Hollywood, Encore Theater, etc. If you have a buffered schedule, you can plan to attend both a rodeo round and an evening show. Third, timing: Rodeo shows start ~5:45 p.m. each night. Concerts may start later. Use the official NFR Express shuttle and hotel package info to move between shows easily.

Finally, crowds & themes: Nights during the rodeo often carry themes—Pink Night, Canadian Night, etc. And concerts draw both rodeo attendees and Vegas-only fans, so book early. In short: to answer who is performing at the NFR in 2024 requires thinking of multiple venues, multiple nights and multiple ticket types. Planning ahead maximizes your experience.

Conclusion

So, who is performing at the NFR in 2024? The answer: a stellar lineup of country-music and entertainment acts surrounding the main rodeo event. From Brad Paisley and Lainey Wilson in arena shows, to opening acts like Zach Top and Gabby Barrett, and major Strip residencies from Garth Brooks and Shania Twain—there’s something for every fan. Whether you’re there for the bull riding, the music, or both, this year’s NFR week promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Western sport and sound.

FAQs

Are the main shows included in my NFR ticket?
Some opening acts are included with your rodeo ticket (e.g., Zach Top, Easton Corbin). Headline concerts may require separate tickets—always check the venue details.

Which big country artists are performing during NFR 2024?
Notable names include Brad Paisley (Dec 6–8), Lainey Wilson (Dec 14), Cody Johnson (Dec 12–13) and Shania Twain (ongoing residency).

Where do these performances take place?
Main arena events at Thomas & Mack Center; opening acts at the same. Many concerts happen at The Strip venues—Colosseum at Caesars, PL LIVE at Planet Hollywood, etc.

When does NFR week take place in 2024?
December 5–14, 2024. Opening acts and concerts align with these dates.

How should I plan if I want both rodeo and music?
Book your rodeo ticket early, then check separate concert ticket requirements for headline shows. Use the NFR Express shuttle and plan venue transitions ahead of time.