Wide Open Saloon, the beloved Sedalia entertainment and dining destination known for its live music, sweeping views, and community atmosphere, will bring a limited residency to The Exchange at the National Western Complex from January 8 through midnight on January 24. Throughout the National Western Stock Show, Wide Open @ The Stockyards residency will deliver the venue’s signature energy to Denver with barbecue, beer and bourbon, and no-cover-charge entertainment each day for visitors, exhibitors, and Stock Show attendees.
Founded by Todd and Leah Hills, Wide Open Saloon opened in March 2020 after more than a decade of visioning, community support, and a full renovation of the historic Johnson’s Corner truck stop in Sedalia. The venue has since become a regional destination for riders, road trippers, families, and music lovers, with five unique gathering areas, indoor-outdoor dining, and a full roster of live country and rock performances every week.
The residency will bring that spirit to the historic saloon building attached to The Exchange, transforming the space into a full bar and dining hall with extended hours from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Riot BBQ, led by Chef Manny Barella and Pitmaster Patrick Klaiber, will headline the food program with a menu that embodies their signature approach: Central Texas-style BBQ with Northern Mexican flair. Chef Barella, a James Beard Foundation Emerging Chef semifinalist, Bravo Top Chef Season 21 competitor, and StarChefs Rising Star 2022, and Klaiber, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognized pitmaster, will work with the team to bring an elevated, high-energy food experience to Stockyards visitors. A late-night condensed menu will also be available.
Live entertainment will anchor each day with performances daily. Daytime will feature solo or duo acts, and evenings will shift into full bands spanning country, rock, and regional favorites. All programming will remain free and open to the public, reinforcing Wide Open’s long-standing commitment to creating spaces that feel welcoming.
“Wide Open has always been about bringing people together over good music and good food, and there is no better place to do that than the Stockyards during National Western,” said Co-Owner and Founder, Todd Hills. “We want folks to feel like they have a home base to gather, refuel, and have some fun.”
Bottled and canned beverages will be available at the full bar, featuring Casamigos, Bullit and John Daly Vodka. Final confirmations will be announced in early January.
“Whether you rode in with your horses, you are here with your family, or you just came for the music, we want everyone walking into Wide Open at The Exchange to feel welcomed, taken care of, and part of the experience,” said Leah Hills, co-owner of Wide Open Saloon.
