KANSAS CITY, MO. – The American Royal Association recently announced some of its partnerships to celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2024 with various food and agricultural events and educational programs.

Throughout its history, American Royal grew from the National Hereford Show, an exposition and sale of purebred cattle that began in 1899, to an organization hosting multiple events and programs year-round. It also offers scholarships, education, and competition opportunities to youth and adults worldwide.

Some of the annual events the American Royal hosts include the World Series of Barbecue, a PRCA-sanctioned rodeo, multispecies national livestock shows, multiple equine exhibitions, and other education-focused events and programs. 

“Few organizations stand the test of time and continue to grow for 125 years and counting,” said Ken Wagner, chairman of the American Royal board of directors. “The American Royal continues its steeped tradition as a Kansas City institution, and its mission ensures that it will continue to flourish with an even greater impact on celebrating food and agriculture.”

In October 2024, the American Royal will bring back its original Business Luncheon for local business leaders. The long-lost tradition connecting business and community leaders was originally held in conjunction with the National FFA Convention.

“Since its beginning, the American Royal has been gathering people together to engage with and celebrate agriculture,” said Lindsey Patterson-Smith, American Royal board vice chairman and anniversary committee chair. “The events and engagement planned to celebrate our 125-year legacy provide us with an opportunity to reiterate the American Royal as an important asset for the Kansas City and agricultural communities. This anniversary marks only our first 125 years; while recognition of our past is important, the future is just as bright for the American Royal.”

The American Royal is sharing and honoring its 125-year heritage through meaningful partnerships and events with other Kansas City-based vendors, including the Boulevard Brewing Company, Charlie Hustle, The Coterie Theater, Hyer Boots, J. Rieger & Co., Sav-Art, Sierra Winter Jewelry and Sporting Kansas City.

Additional events will be planned by the Royal during 2024 including public activations around the Kansas City metro area, a Kansas City Museum display and a Guinness Book of World Records event.