Working Ranch Cowboy Assoc.
October 1–2
Pryor, Okla. wrca.org

This organization is dedicated to preserving the proud heritage and lifestyle of the working ranch cowboy—not just the sport of rodeo. Real ranch skills, like wild-bronc riding, and playful ones, like wild-cow milking, are featured during the rodeo.The Pryor Creek Ranch Rodeo was started as a benefit to help an injured cowboy, a tradition that continues today. The Junior Ranch Rodeo Association expects to draw 80 participants this year, and the outdoor trade show will include vendors buying, selling, or trading just about anything cowboy.

Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
September 25–October 10
Lexington, Ky. alltechfeigames.com

Held every four years (two years prior to the Summer Olympics) since its debut in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1990, this is the first U.S. hosting of this prestigious world championship competition. Events include dressage, driving, eventing, vaulting, jumping, endurance, and—for Western fans—reining. Para dressage, for physically disabled athletes, is a new addition to the game’s eight equestrian disciplines. The International Museum of the Horse at the Kentucky Horse Park, where the games will be held, will exhibit “A Gift from the Desert,” about the Arabian breed, during the games.

National Cavalry Competition
September 30–October 2
San Angelo, Texas, fortconcho.com

A showcase of the individualism and resourcefulness epitomized by the U.S. Cavalry, you'll see man, horse, and machine working as one during this annual event. Competitors in period dress show their skills at riding, jumping, saber, and pistol. Started in 1976 to help preserve the history, equipment, literature, traditions, and heritage of the U.S. Cavalry, this will be the largest assembly of Cavalry at the fort since the post’s active days in the late 1880s. The Fort Concho Museum will have all its displays open, showcasing historic photos, weaponry, artifacts, and maps.