Rapid City Hosted 89th Western Junior Livestock Show

Youth from across the region gathered at the Central States Fairgrounds to showcase their livestock and skills.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Large Animals

Rapid City Hosted 89th Western Junior Livestock Show

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The 89th Western Junior Livestock Show brought together participants aged 8 to 18 to compete in categories including dairy goats and market beef. This year's event at the Central States Fairgrounds in Rapid City serves as a memorial for the late maintenance manager Paul Nebel.

Why it matters

The show originated in 1937 to provide a competitive platform for local agricultural youth against East River counterparts. Beyond the competition, it functions as a community tribute to honor the legacy of Paul Nebel, who died in June 2026.

The competition offers over 300 sponsored awards for participants between the ages of 8 and 18. Events are spread across the Central States Fairgrounds, featuring categories like dairy goats and market beef.

The players

Paul Nebel

He was the late maintenance manager at the Central States Fairgrounds whose life is honored by this year's show.

The details

Participants representing local agricultural groups and family ranches spent months providing daily care for their animals before competing. The event also features a Consumer Science Fair hosted within the Walter Taylor Building.

The event began in 1937.
Paul Nebel died in June 2026.
Volunteers were recognized on Thursday, October 8, 2026.
Feeder calf and meat goat shows occurred on Friday, October 9, 2026.
The livestock sale is scheduled for Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 2 p.m. in Barn 9.

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Culture Shift

This event maintains a nearly century-old agricultural tradition that began in 1937 to bolster local competition. It highlights the enduring commitment of youth to livestock husbandry amidst broader shifts in regional agricultural education.

Attendees and families should plan for activity across the Central States Fairgrounds, including the Consumer Science Fair in the Walter Taylor Building. Those looking to support the participants can attend the livestock sale taking place this Saturday.

The takeaway

This event highlights the significant time commitment required for youth to succeed in agricultural competitions. Families can support the next generation of ranchers by attending the concluding livestock sale this weekend.