KANSAS CITY, KAN. — The American Royal, a Kansas City, Kan.-based non-profit, began construction on Nov. 28 on a new facility intended to be an epicenter for food and agriculture.

Kicking off the project, nearly 500 people gathered to witness the vertical construction process begin as the first piece of steel was placed on the new barn. Attendees ate lunch, toured the future home of the American Royal, viewed updated renderings and signed the steel beam used for the new facility’s construction.

“The American Royal is constructing a purpose-built complex designed to attract visitors year-round to Kansas and Wyandotte County for food and agriculture events,” said Walt George, chair of the new building committee and secretary of the American Royal Board of Directors, during the barn raising ceremony. “It all starts today with the barn, although it sounds so simple to just call it the barn.”

The new facility will span over 390,000 square feet. The barn can house more than 1,500 horses or almost 4,000 head of cattle. It features three arenas and a state-of-the-art learning and engagement center.

Several state and local officials attended the event including Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

“The agriculture industry is the lifeblood of our great state, and this new American Royal campus is going to serve as a national leader in education, events, and engagement – creating a food and agriculture innovation district that will be unlike any other in the world,” Kelly said. “It will also play a critical role in building up our workforce by instilling in young visitors a sense of pride about Kansas’ deep agriculture heritage, perhaps inspiring them to pursue a career here.”

The American Royal plans to host conferences, and special events focused on innovations in food, fiber and fuel at its new facility.

The complex is expected to hold its first event in late 2025 or early 2026.

A Kansas City tradition since 1899, the American Royal said its mission is to be the nation’s leader for food and agriculture education, events and engagement. The American Royal provides opportunities for nearly half a million youth and adults from around the world to engage in activities including nationally competitive livestock shows, barbecue competitions, regional and national equine shows, youth and professional rodeos, and elementary and secondary education outreach.