June 1–Aug. 31
Cody Nite Rodeos
Cody, Wyo.
800-207-0744,
Rodeo every night, all summer long—what more do you want? Don’t miss: Checking out the region’s up-and-coming talent as they hone their skills in Cody.
7–9
Fort Sisseton Historical Festival Lake City, S.D.
605-448-5474, www.gfp.sd.gov
Dedicated to preserving the Cavalry history of Fort Sisseton (and one of many fort celebrations across the nation), this festival has period reenactments, chuckwagon cook-offs, and a military costume ball. Don’t miss: Authentic saber drills and foot-soldiering from the Frontier Army.
7–9
Prix de West
Oklahoma City
405-478-2250,
A showcase of the best contemporary Western artists, Prix de West also offers artist demonstrations and concludes with a sale of the exhibit pieces. Don’t miss: Two days of seminars from the industry’s finest artists.
7–9
Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival
Oklahoma City
405-427-5228, www.redearth.org
This festival brings together more than 1,200 American Indian artists and dancers for shows and competitions. Don’t miss: The Red Earth Parade, a large parade through downtown Oklahoma City, with over 100 tribes in full regalia.
9–15
College National Finals Rodeo
Casper, Wyo.
509-529-4402, www.cnfr.com
More than 400 college cowboys and cowgirls represent their schools and compete for national titles. Don’t miss: The Style Show, where your favorite all-stars dress up for charity.
10–15
NRCHA Derby
Paso Robles, Calif.
580-759-4949, www.nrcha.com
Open to 4- and 5-year-olds, the Derby offers big prize money for “older” horses. Don’t miss: World’s Greatest Horseman competition, featuring unique events only seen at the NRCHA.
14–15
Wild Bill Days
Deadwood, S.D.
800-344-8826, www.deadwood.com
Legendary gunfighter “Wild Bill” Hickok is celebrated for two full days with reenactments and concerts. Don’t miss: The many authentic Wild Bill reenactments occuring throughout the festival.
15–17
Dakota Plains Deadwood Show & Auction
Deadwood, S.D.
605-430-0889,
This special auction features everything from collectible bits and spurs to saddles and firearms to gold coins and American Indian artifacts. Don’t miss: The live online bidding, if you can’t make it in person.
20–29
Reno Rodeo
Reno, Nev.
800-225-2277,
For the full rodeo experience, sign up to participate in the opening cattle drive. Don’t miss: Watching the top amateur team ropers in the country compete in the Reno Rodeo Invitational.
21–23
Brian Lebel’s Old West Show and Auction
Denver, Colo.
602-432-7602,
This multi-auction show features Western gear from all over the United States. Don’t miss: Bring your own collectibles and have them appraised by experts.
22
Summer Navajo Rug Auction
Flagstaff, Ariz.
928-779-2300, www.musnaz.org
An educational and cultural experience for everyone. Don’t miss: The more than 300 authentic Navajo rugs up for sale.
22–30
End of Trail World Championship of Cowboy Action Shooting
Founders Ranch, N.M.
877-411-7277, www.sassnet.com
More than 1,000 shooters compete for world titles in single-action shooting events. Don’t miss: Wearing Old West-inspired costumes to be part of the fun.
June 27–July 7
Greeley Stampede
Greeley, Colo.
970-356-7787,
Concerts, a carnival, and a great rodeo make the 4th of July celebration a must-see. Don’t miss: Drop by Greeley Hat Works, one of the oldest hatters in the country.