Boots on the Boulevard at Cosmopolitan for Wrangler NFR

By Brian Hurlburt

It may seem like a bit of a stretch that a Vegas resort that is, well, ‘cosmopolitan’ in feel and vibe, would welcome Wrangler National Finals Rodeo® fans, competitors, sponsors, and anyone else with an appreciation for the country & Western lifestyle.

But that is exactly what The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas resort—located in the heart of the Strip–does each December surrounding the world’s biggest and baddest rodeo.

I had a chance to catch up with two Cosmopolitan executives recently to learn more about how and why they embrace the NFR, plus learn about Cody Jinks, Dierks Bentley, Brantley Gilbert and Cody Johnson performing at the Chelsea Theatre.

The Cosmopolitan is even led by a true rancher, as CEO Bill McBeath operates land north of Las Vegas and near Ely, Nevada.

More about The Cosmopolitan: http://www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com

Hurly’s Hotspots (HH): Why do you and the Cosmopolitan love and embrace the Wrangler NFR so much?

Bill McBeath, president and CEO, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas:

I have been honored to watch Wrangler NFR grow through the decades. To this day, we have recorded more than 300 consecutive sold-out performances at the Thomas & Mack Center, an impressive feat only possible through the unwavering loyalty of rodeo fans. To the city of Las Vegas, Wrangler NFR has continued to be a historical legacy that makes us all proud. The impact it has had on our destination has been pivotal, and to all of the rodeo competitors, fans and sponsors, we express our sincere gratitude. For the fifth year, we have put together a truly dynamic entertainment lineup over the course of NFR at The Cosmopolitan, with the return of our ‘Boots on the Boulevard’ Concert Series. We welcome all rodeo fans to share in the NFR excitement with us.

HH: What does it mean to Cosmo to have such a high level of musical talent headlining during NFR?

Fedor Banuchi, Senior Vice President of Entertainment at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (FB): This year, it is extremely important to present a strong line up of country music to welcome back the NFR to Las Vegas and to tell the world that the entertainment capital is back. The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan is the premier live music venue on The Strip and is famous for hosting arena level acts in an intimate setting. This NFR we are proud to continue that legacy with a diverse lineup of country stars, including Dierks Bentley, Cody Johnson, Brantley Gilbert and Cody Jinks in his first ever NFR appearance.

HH: What is the first thing that comes to your mind about the NFR returning to Las Vegas in 2021?

FB: The NFR is such an important long-standing citywide event for Las Vegas. The NFR returning to the city that has played host since 1985 feels like a homecoming celebration and a sign that Las Vegas is back.

Here’s some of what is happening at The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas.

“Boots on the Boulevard” features live viewing parties plus live concerts from Cody Jinks (12/2-3, 5), Brantley Gilbert (12/4), Cody Johnson (12/8-9) and Dierks Bentley (12/10-11) at the Chelsea Theatre. 

Note: For those possibly in Las Vegas Nov. 5-6, Old Dominion appears at The Chelsea.