2–3
1860 DAYS CELEBRATION
Pierce-Weippe, Idaho
208-435-4406,
Celebrate the founding of the first gold rush town in Idaho with family-friendly events such as the Longest Beard and Best 1800s Costume contests, pie contests, three-legged races, and concerts.
7–9
BUFFALO BILL INVITATIONAL SHOOTOUT
Cody, Wyo.
307-587-4771,
The Buffalo Bill Invitational Shootout boasts one of the best all-around shotgun challenges in the West: a 350-target shoot where competitors shoot skeet, trap, five-stand, and sporting clays. While you’re in Cody, make sure to visit the impressive Buffalo Bill Center of the West.
12–16
CALDWELL NIGHT RODEO
Caldwell, Idaho.
208-459-2060,
The best professional cowboys in the world make it a point to stop at the Caldwell Night Rodeo, one of the top 20 professional rodeos in the nation. On Wrangler Patriot Night (Aug. 15), proceeds go to the rodeo’s military relief fund.
Aug. 16–Sept. 21
WESTERN VISIONS ART SHOW AND SALE
Jackson, Wyo.
307-733-5771,
Presented by the National Museum of Wildlife Art, this art show and sale is one of the signature events at the Jackson Hole Art Festival. More than 150 painters and sculptors will showcase their wildlife-inspired work.
[EDITOR’S PICK]
21–23
WESTERN LEGENDS ROUNDUP FILM FESTIVAL
Kanab, Utah
435-644-3444,
Keep the heritage of classic Hollywood Westerns alive with this celebration of the good ol’ days in Western cinema. Stars from the classics are always in attendance! Last year’s event featured Clint Walker, James Drury, and Andrew Prine.
“If you’re a western movie buff, these guys are keeping that spirit alive and well.” —Bob
23–24
SANTA FE INDIAN MARKET
Santa Fe, N.M.
505-983-5220,
One of the largest Native arts market in the world, the Santa Fe Indian Market attracts over 1,100 artist and 150,000 visitors. Don’t miss the Native American Clothing Contest (Aug. 18), where contestants show off traditional and contemporary fashions they’ve created.
28–31
CELEBRATE BANDERA
Bandera, Texas
830-796-4447,
Nearly 25,000 fans come to celebrate the Western Way in the “Cowboy Capital of the World!” Highlights include a cattle drive, Wild West show, cowboy mounted shooters, dancing, and much more!