National Cowboy Poetry Gathering
Jan. 23–30
Elko, Nev.
775-738-7508, westernfolklife.org
Founded in 1985 by the Western Folklife Center as the Elko Gathering, the U.S. Senate recognized this classic event as the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in 2000 for its cultural value and countrywide importance. Though the event continues to grow, long-time fans affectionately still refer to it as Elko. This year’s gathering will feature cowboy poets, artists, and musicians from Louisiana and Florida, in addition to the many other performers and attractions.
Feb.6–March 7
Masters of the American West Fine Arts Exhibition and Sale
Los Angeles, CA
323-667-2000, autrynationalcenter.org
March 29
Oakdale Testicle Festival
Oakdale, Calif.
209-847-5163, oakdalecowboymuseum.org
Forget baked beans;bull testicles cooked in coals are the ultimate cowboy treat.
May 28-30
Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival
Santa Clarita, Calif.
661-286-4021, cowboyfestival.org
May 28–30
Mule Races, Show, and Draft Horse Challenge
Winnemucca, Nev.
775-623-5071, winnemucca.com
Sept. 3–6
Gold Rush Days
Sacramento, Calif.
916-808-7777, sacramentogoldrushdays.com
Oct. 29–31 and Nov. 5–7
Professional Bull Riding Built Ford Tough World Finals
Las Vegas
866-727-7469, pbrnow.com
Nov. 6–7 and 13–14
Harvest Fair
San Bernardino, Calif.
(909) 384-5426, harvestfair.net
Dec 2-11
Wrangler National Finals Rodeo
Las Vegas
702-260-8605, nfrexperience.com
March 3–7
Ranch Hand Rodeo and Ranch, Rope, and Performance Horse Sale
Winnemucca, Nev.
775-623-2220, ranchrodeonv.com
March 12–14
Palm Springs West Fest
Palm Springs, Calif.
800-664-5617, palmspringswestfest.com
In its first year, the Palm Springs West Fest will offer three days of rodeo in the desert.
April 22–25
Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival
Santa Clarita, Calif.
661-286-4021, cowboyfestival.org
May 25–30
Bishop Mule Days
Bishop, Calif.
760-872-4263, muledays.org
June 17–26
Reno Rodeo
Reno, Nev.
775-329-3877, renorodeo.com
Sept. 25-26
Barstow Rodeo Stampede
Barstow, Calif.
760-596-2065, barstowrodeo.com
Dec. 2–5
Single-Action Shooting Society Convention and Wild West Christmas
Las Vegas
877-411-7277, sassnet.com