4–8
SASS Convention and Wild West Christmas
Branson, Mo.
505-843-1320, www.sassnet.com
The Single Action Shooting Society’s annual convention features gun vendors, social events, and informative seminars. Don’t miss: The special appearances by SASS stars, including book signings and shooting presentations. The Showboat Branson Belle Dinner Cruise is a must as well!
5–14
Wrangler National Finals Rodeo
Las Vegas, Nev.
702-260-8605, www.prorodeo.com
The biggest and most well known rodeo in the country, this is cowboy America’s family reunion. World Champions are crowned here. Don’t miss: Entertainment from Grammy-winning superstars, and the Cowboy Christmas gift show.
8–15
World Series of Team Roping Finale VIII
Las Vegas, Nev.
505-898-1755, www.wstroping.com
This is the world’s biggest, highest-paying, and most prestigious amateur team roping finals. In 2012, it paid $6 million. This year, event organizer Denny Gentry is expanding the field to include more ropers and the prize money is sure to rise as well. Don’t miss: The adjacent trade show will set you up with everything you need to get roping (or at least look the part).
14
Flying W Ranch Cattle Drive
Cedar Point, Kan.
620-274-4357, www.flinthillsflyingw.com
Drive 100 head of Longhorn through the scenic Flint HIlls with the Hoy family. The drive is 10–12 miles long through pastures and along country roads and takes 3–4 hours. Bring your horse or use one of there’s! Don’t miss: Bed down for the night (or two or three) in the ranch’s rustic bunkhouse. Beautiful prairie sunrises are especially wonderful when viewed from wraparound porch with a cup of strong cowboy coffee.
19–21
The Texas Cowboy Christmas Ball
Anson, Texas 325-823-2159, www.ansoncowboyschristmasball.com
Started in 1885, this annual three-day Christmas ball awards prizes for “best dressed” in traditional attire. Don’t miss: The “ranch supper” fundraiser headlined by Michael Martin Murphey.