A surge of students — many donning their signature blue corduroy jackets — is set to arrive in Fort Worth.
Over 16,000 agricultural students, along with their families and guests, are expected to attend the 97th annual Texas FFA State Convention from June 30 to July 4 at the Fort Worth Convention Center.
The event is projected to generate an economic impact of $18 million, as attendees will be staying in approximately 40 hotels throughout the city, according to Visit Fort Worth, the city’s tourism organization.
“Cowtown and Texas FFA are a perfect match, both rooted in rich agricultural traditions and strong community values,” stated Ashley Dunkerley, a representative of the Texas FFA Association.
Bob Jameson, president and CEO of Visit Fort Worth, noted that the city has successfully drawn major conventions this year, with more anticipated in the future.
“Fort Worth continues to be a top choice for conventions due to its walkable downtown, authentic hospitality, and unique blend of Western heritage and modern amenities,” Jameson explained. “Conventions play a significant role in our tourism economy, and we are excited about the ongoing expansion of the Fort Worth Convention Center.”
Robert Allen, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership, emphasized that large conventions provide the city with opportunities to attract more tourists and businesses while supporting the hospitality industry.
“It’s a big business, and it’s good business,” Allen remarked, commending Visit Fort Worth for its strategic efforts in attracting conventions.
The convention center’s expansion, which remains operational during renovations, could lead to even more large events coming to Fort Worth once completed in 2030, Allen added.
FFA activities planned for the 2025 weeklong convention include workshops, career development sessions, and special events.
Students will be honored for their accomplishments, with over 150 scholarships totaling $2.3 million awarded to outstanding graduating seniors.
The convention is scheduled to begin on June 30 with service activities such as volunteering at food banks and park cleanups. The state agriscience fair and an FFA rodeo are also on the agenda.
Convention highlights will feature a keynote speech by J.B. Mauney, a former professional bull rider; a quiz bowl; agricultural and leadership workshops; officer elections; and a concert with singer Wyatt Flores.
Prior to 2025, Texas FFA hosted its 2022 convention in Fort Worth. FFA members are set to return for the 2026 and 2027 conventions.
The FFA convention is among several major events contributing to the growth of Fort Worth’s tourism sector.
In May, a record number of participants — exceeding 4,200 — traveled to Fort Worth from 45 states and six countries for the 2025 Texas Emergency Management Conference. The group plans to return for its 2026 meeting from May 26 to 29 next year.
According to Visit Fort Worth, tourism brought 11.5 million visitors to the city in 2024, generating $251 million in state and local taxes.
Visitors contributed to supporting more than 30,000 jobs in the hospitality industry, which had an economic impact exceeding $3.5 billion, as announced at the Visit Fort Worth annual meeting in February.
“If a convention brings you to Fort Worth, that’s a win,” Allen said. “It encourages people to view Fort Worth differently. It’s all about business and sustaining jobs.”
— news from Fort Worth Report