March 1
- RFD-TV’s The American Rodeo
Arlington, Texas
402-991-6290, website
A huge success in its first go-round, The American is the world’s richest one-day rodeo, with a $2 million payout, and more than $500,000 in prizes. This year, eleven-time World Champion barrel racer, Charmayne James, has accepted an exemption invitation and will be competing.
March 3–22
- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Houston, Texas
832-667-1000, website
Having attracted more visitors to this event in 2013 than were living in all of Houston, it is safe to say that this event needs to be added to the bucket list. Bonus: Many millions of dollars are awarded to local education efforts by the event and it hosts the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest.
March 6–8
- Timed Event Championship
Guthrie, Okla.
800-595-7433, website
In its 30th year of determining the best of the best in the timed events, this championship will now offer $100,000 to its winner—compared to last year’s $50,000. With 20 all-around cowboys competing in five different events, and a $200,000 overall purse, this is the event for the ropers and wrestlers.
March 12–14
- Southeastern Cowboy Gathering
Cartersville, Ga.
770-397-1300, website
Brantley Gilbert says country must be countrywide and the same can be said for cowboys. Head down south for three days of poetry, lectures, music, and chuckwagon meals.
March 13–15
- Amarillo Antiques & Collectibles Show
Amarillo, Texas
517-668-4188, website
The longest running Western show and auction in America offers bidders a chance to add anything from spurs and saddles to antique firearms and fine Western art to their collections.
*The dates of this event have been corrected since original publication.
March 19–21
- The Russell Auction
Great Falls, Mont.
406-727-8787, website
Designed to provide financial support for the highly acclaimed C.M. Russell Museum, this event not only makes highly valued works of art available to the public, but offers an educational component, as well.
March 20 – May 9
- Cowgirl Up!
Wickenburg, Ariz.
928-684-2272, website
Boys are allowed, but this event is truly for the cowgirls. Showcasing painted, drawn, and sculptured works by “the other half of the West,” Cowgirl Up! features about 200 pieces from 58 artists.
Editor’s Pick: “Two words: Bucket List. Not only is this event held in Wickenburg—a Western fine art mecca—but its sole purpose is to shine the light on those who are often the fiercely quiet backbone of our Western way of life—the cowgirls.” —G.R. Schiavino
March 25–28
- RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo
Kissimmee. Fla.
800-745-3000, website
See the top two finalists from the PRCA’s 12 U.S. rodeo circuits compete with a clean slate for a chance to take home their winnings, a $20,000 credit toward a new RAM truck, a new pair of Justin Boots, a Cactus Saddlery saddle, and, of course, the buckle, made by Montana Silversmith.
March 26–29
- Road to the Horse
Lexington, Ky.
877-772-5425, website
An enlightening experience for horsemen and horsewomen alike, Road to the Horse brings together the world’s top trainers and clinicians to work with yet-to-be-touched three year-olds from the 6666 remuda. The work accomplished at this event is bound to awe and inspire.
