AMES, Iowa (April 22, 2026) – The Campustown Business District will transform into an unforgettable scene this weekend as live cattle take over Welch Avenue for the second annual Campustown Showdown presented by MaxAg and in-partnership with Discover Ames, returning April 24–25, 2026.
Blending agriculture, entertainment and community in a way rarely seen, the event brings competitive livestock exhibition out of the traditional show ring and into the heart of Campustown — creating a one-of-a-kind experience where cattle, beef producers, college students, consumers and all ages connect face-to-face for a fun experience while learning about the beef industry.
“Our mission with Campustown Showdown is to bring agriculture directly to the people — and there’s no better way to do that than putting cattle in the middle of Campustown,” said Christian Calliham, Founder and Executive Director of Campustown Showdown. “This event creates a space where consumers can engage with exhibitors, ask questions and better understand the role cattle and beef production play in their everyday lives.”
Competition begins Friday, April 24, at the Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center with a 6 p.m. showmanship contest. Activities resume Saturday, April 25, at 9:30 a.m. with market beef and breeding heifer divisions.
The weekend culminates in the Grand Drive at 6:30 p.m. on Welch Avenue, where top exhibitors will showcase their cattle through the streets of Campustown in front of a live audience, awarding more than $7,500 in cash prizes.
New this year, the Campustown Showdown is partnering with the Iowa Beef Industry Council to present the “From Producer to Plate” segment, where consumers can submit questions online for exhibitors to answer live on stage — offering insight into how cattle are raised, how beef is produced, and what today’s producers want consumers to know about their food.
In addition to the cattle competition, attendees can enjoy a full evening experience in Campustown, including:
- Live music by Cody Hicks
- A western fashion show presented by Western Edge
- Vendor booths and community activations throughout the district
The Campustown Showdown team was recently recognized with the Best of Show – Customer Event honor for the Missouri and Kansas region at the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) Annual Awards.
The public is invited to attend both the competitions at the Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center and the Grand Drive in Campustown. Admission is free.
Additional event details, exhibitor information and schedules can be found at: www.campustownshowdown.com.
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About Campustown Showdown
The Campustown Showdown is an award-winning cattle show and community event inspired by the success of the Aggieville Showdown in Manhattan, Kansas. This event brings exhibitors, students, businesses and community members together in the heart of Campustown to celebrate the importance of agriculture.
Participants in cattle shows like the Campustown Showdown gain invaluable skills — confidence, leadership, and responsibility — alongside memories and friendships that last a lifetime. The event showcases the best of Ames’ community spirit while highlighting its agricultural heritage.
For further details on the Campustown Showdown, sponsorship opportunities, or vendor information, please visit www.campustownshowdown.com or contact Christian Calliham, Founder & Executive Director, at (785) 443-1569 or christianc@thegranddrives.com.
