Celebrate Durango's rich cowboy culture and Western heritage at the 36th Annual Durango Cowboy Gathering. This year's program comprises performers, poets, ranchers, and storytellers from the West. There are plenty of events for every family member, from intimate readings to a cowboy parade. Buckle up for three days of live performances, parades, social events, and yummy meals! Hop into a comfy pair of boots and wrangle your friends up for a boot-scootin’ good time at the Durango Cowboy Gathering.

Saddle Up for the 36th Annual Durango Cowboy Gathering happening throughout Durango!

Cowboy driving carriage

Event #1: Cowboy Poetry and Music Performances

The event kicks off with a performance from the Bar-D Wranglers and invited performers, which will have everyone dancing and singing. Live performances continue throughout the event, featuring female lead acts, energetic stage presences, and Western swing.

Throughout the weekend, poetry performances will occur at different businesses around the town. Cowboy poetry in Durango showcases the talent and traditions of cowboy poets. Attendees can expect to hear stories of life on the range, ranching, and the humor and hardship that come with it.

Event #2: Cowboy Parade and Horseback Social

One of the most anticipated parts of the gathering is the Cowboy Parade, which lines Main Street Durango with historic displays of horses, wagons, and riders. Every year, this Durango horse parade packs the streets of historic downtown with its free cowboy fun. A horseback social is newly added before the parade.

This is a great way to meet cowboys, cowgirls, and other horseback riders as they peruse the streets of downtown. There will be plenty of activities and events up and down Main Street before and after the parade. Don't miss out on the fun!

Event #3: Ranch Tours and Western Heritage Events

Attend the many events offered to immerse yourself in authentic ranch life and Western tradition. Go on a ride through the stunning San Juans with Bears Ranch. Enjoy the mountains' beauty while celebrating the rich history of Colorado's ranches. 

Experience Western heritage events offered through exhibits showcasing saddle-making or blacksmithing. Try out new things like the trick roping demonstration or support the future generation of Western agriculture at youth group events. 

Event #4: Chuckwagon Breakfast

Enjoy an early morning cowboy-style breakfast at the Durango Cowboy Gathering featuring traditional Chuckwagon cooking. A traditional chuckwagon breakfast is set outdoors with cast-iron skillets over an open fire. Fuel up like the cowboys did with scrambled eggs, sausage gravy, biscuits, and coffee. A chuckwagon breakfast is a delicious taste of the West that brings history to life.

Event #5: Family-Friendly Cowboy Gatherings

The Durango Cowboy Gathering is full of family fun, with events for every cowboy and cowgirl. Let your little one try riding a horse with the wranglers from Bears Ranch and Colorado Trails Ranch. Families can also head to the petting zoo and pet some friendly critters. Around town, there will also be plenty of hands-on activities like crafting cowboy hats or learning to rope. Who knew something so fun could be educational, too?

Event #6: Western Art Show

At the Cowboy Gathering, the art exhibits help bring the spirit of the West to life. Local artists showcase incredible paintings, sculptures, and cowboy art pieces that capture everything from sweeping landscapes to moments of cowboy life. If you're interested in Western art, check out the hat display and presentation at Sorrel Sky Gallery or the sky horse saddle display at Toh-Atin Gallery.

Event #7: Cowboy Storytelling Sessions

One of the best parts of the event is hearing veteran cowboys share their stories. These are telltales— they're accounts from men and women who've spent years working the land. Listening to these stories, you feel the grit and heart of cowboy life. It's laid-back and personal, almost like sitting around the campfire hearing about a way of life that's both rugged and rich in tradition.

Event #8: Live Western Dance and Music

Live music and Western dancing are important parts of the cowboy culture of the gathering. You'll hear everything from classic country tunes to cowboy ballads. People of all ages come together to two-step and line dance and enjoy the night. Even if you're not much of a dancer, the vibe is so welcoming you'll want to jump in.

Event #9: Cowboy Poetry Contest

The open mic contest is for cowboy poets and amateurs. Poets of all ages take the stage and share their original works, from heartfelt tributes to ranch life to humorous tales of life on the range. Whether you're an experienced poet or have a story, this contest is the perfect place to dive in.

Event #10: Cowboy Marketplace

From custom-made leather boots and belts to hand-tooled saddles, the cowboy marketplace is a treasure trove of unique items that celebrate cowboy culture in Durango. You'll find beautifully crafted jewelry, authentic cowboy hats, and artwork inspired by Western life. Whether you're looking for a one-of-a-kind piece to remember the event by or just browsing the marketplace has a wide range of goods for every shopper.

Conclusion
Old West Train Ride & Chuckwagon Supper Sweepstakes

This year's Durango Cowboy Gathering will be an October event you won't want to miss. It's not just a celebration of cowboy culture—it's a hands-on immersive event where anyone can join. Families will love the horse rides and animal petting, while art lovers can explore the local exhibits. The weekend is full of laughter, great music, and good company, making it a perfect way to connect with the heart of the West.