A NEW ERA COMING SOON

A new chapter for the American Royal begins this fall as the organization prepares to host its first events at the new Kansas City, Kansas facility.

Construction on the Barns & Exhibition Hall is approximately 80% complete and on track for a September opening. Together, these spaces total 390,000 square feet and will provide the scale and flexibility needed to welcome competitors, exhibitors, event organizers, and guests to the American Royal’s new home.

Four cornerstone American Royal events are scheduled to take place at the new facility this fall:

  • The Royal Showcase Horse Show: September 12-13, 2026

  • Cutting Horse Show: September 18-21, 2026

  • World Series of Barbecue®: September 30 – October 4, 2026

  • Fall Livestock Show: October 9-25, 2026

Timeline at a glance:

  • Spring 2026 – September 2026: Completion of Barns & Exhibition Hall

  • Fall 2026 – Spring 2029: Completion of remaining

  • 2027: Rental events begin taking place in Barns & Exhibition Hall

  • Spring 2029: Full facility rental events begin taking place

Note: Spring 2029 represents the latest completion date allowed under STAR Bond requirements. The American Royal continues to advance the project with the goal of completing the full campus sooner.

Advancing the Public-Private Partnership

The American Royal’s new campus is being made possible through a public-private partnership that includes charitable contributions, private financing, and public commitments.

The total project cost is currently estimated at $375 million. To date, secured funding and commitments represent more than 75% of total project costs, reflecting strong momentum behind the project and its long-term vision for agriculture, education, and events.

The American Royal continues to work with public partners, private supporters, and philanthropic leaders to finalize funding for the remaining campus needs, including the arenas, Learning & Engagement Center, kitchen, and office spaces.