Our Work:
Bilbrey Family Event Center
This state-of-the-art rodeo facility provides the university and surrounding community with a full-size, conditioned arena and all the amenities needed to host collegiate, professional, and agricultural events. Featuring a covered livestock pen area, warm-up arena, participant showers, VIP lounge, concessions, advanced AV systems, and more, the space is designed for versatility, comfort, and long-term value.
Location:
Manhattan, KS
Architect:
GH2 Equine Architects
Total Sf:
76,500
:
Kansas State University Animal Science Bilbrey Family Event Center
Key Features:
The completed facility delivers substantial and lasting value to the owner, providing a full-size, conditioned rodeo arena equipped with all the amenities necessary to host a wide range of agricultural and livestock events. Designed with both college and community use in mind, the project includes a 20,000-square-foot covered exterior livestock manipulable pen area, livestock chutes and equipment suitable for collegiate and professional rodeo events, a livestock cleaning station, participant shower/restroom facilities, a warm-up arena, and a VIP viewing lounge. Additional features such as a concessions area, first aid room, state-of-the-art sound and AV systems, and a merchandise sales/ticketing area further enhance the user experience. These amenities not only support the university’s rodeo program but also position the facility as a regional hub for professional and community agricultural events, offering long-term operational flexibility and economic benefit. The thoughtful integration of these features ensures the space meets the diverse needs of its users while reinforcing the university’s commitment to supporting agricultural education and community engagement.
Project Info
The Bilbrey Family Event Center at Kansas State University is a 76,500-square-foot rodeo and livestock facility that showcases the power of teamwork, craftsmanship, and innovation. This impressive venue features a 130' × 250' rodeo arena with bleacher seating for 3,000 spectators, stock pens with bucking chutes and roping boxes, and an enclosed 80' × 80' staging area. It also includes a covered wash area for horses and cattle, 10 small livestock wash pens, a manager’s office, meeting room, restrooms with showers, and a dedicated security/first aid room. Guests are welcomed into a spacious lobby with concessions and beverage sales, while a second-floor VIP area offers full-window views overlooking both the arena and staging area. We’re proud to be part of a project that supports the future of agriculture and rodeo in Kansas.
