The National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada, began in 1985 to celebrate life in the rural West. This annual January event is a week-long festival supporting poetry, music, art, folklore, and other area traditions. From open mic nights to dances, there is an event for everyone. Here are a few reasons you don’t want to miss the Cowboy Poetry Gathering:

Youth Programs

The Western Folklife Center, which hosts the Poetry Gathering, offers youth education programs throughout the event. Scheduled activities, such as field trips, assemblies, and hands-on workshops, allow children to explore the artistic traditions of the West. The Cow Kids Stampede is a series of interactive music and poetry performances that will delight the youngest to oldest audience members. The Student Art Show allows local youth to participate in our artistic tradition by showcasing their artwork to the Gathering’s many attendees.

Exhibitions

During the festival, special exhibitions are on display at the Wiegand Gallery. A collection of cowboy gear created in the last 30 years, with over 100 pieces from 15 states, displays the utilitarian craftsmanship of Western cowboys. This collection combines tradition and ingenuity, showcasing how Western artists have inspired the rebirth of functional artistry.

The Pioneer Building, which was the first bar in Elko, will host exhibits on the area’s history, settlement, and culture. Key artifacts include blankets, boots, saddles, and other pieces of cowboy history, like the rawhide reata. We also have exhibits for artists like Teal Blake, Joseph Haeberle, and James Shoshone.

Western Mercantile

The Western Mercantile is the Poetry Gathering’s vendor market, where artists sell their wares to the public. Whether you are looking for Western wear or art, you can find something for everyone on the vendor floor. If you are a Western artist, apply for a booth to participate in this annual event. The Mercantile is full of activity, allowing vendors and visitors to exchange ideas and share stories.

Shows & Workshops

While the poetry performances are the Gathering’s claim to fame, the festival also offers a series of ticketed workshops. These enable visitors to learn how many Western crafts are made, and participants can take home a memorable handmade souvenir. Some workshops include:

  • Rawhide braiding

  • Leather carving

  • Bread making

  • Bracelet design

  • Songwriting

Register early for a seat in the festival’s classes or most anticipated events. These often sell out quickly.

Open Mics & Jams

If you want to participate in the poetry readings instead of just listening to others, our open mic nights and jams allow you to share your talents. These all-are-welcome events allow the Gathering’s newcomers or old hands a chance to take the stage. We all have stories to tell.

Take Part in the Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, NV

The National Cowboy Poetry Gathering celebrates the West through art, music, crafts, and poetry. Show your appreciation for this culture by attending performances and workshops, or learn something new by watching one of our feature films. Artists with talents to share can sign up for a Mercantile booth or perform at an open mic. Contact the Elko Convention Visitors Authority today if you have questions about attending or participating in the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering.