Highlights of the Weekend

Parade: Kick off the festivities with the Western Heritage Classic Parade, a vibrant spectacle winding through downtown Abilene. From stagecoaches to chuckwagons, antique tractors to classic cars, experience the essence of West Texas on full display.

Cowboy Poetry Under the Stars: Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring art of cowboy poetry. Three of the country's most acclaimed cowboy poets will regale you with timeless verses, blending humor and reflection in an unforgettable evening under the vast Texas sky.

Bit and Spur Show: Delve into the craftsmanship of the Old West at the Bit, Spur, and Western Collectible Show. Explore a treasure trove of antique and contemporary items, engage with distinguished makers, and immerse yourself in the world of Western craftsmanship.

Trade Show: Shop 'til you drop at the Western Heritage Classic trade show, where vendors offer an array of Western-themed goods. From cowboy hats to handcrafted leather goods, satisfy your inner cowboy or cowgirl with unique finds.

Food Vendors: Indulge in a culinary journey through Western flavors, with an abundance of food vendors offering everything from hearty chuckwagon cuisine to modern twists on classic Western fare.

Cowboy Music: Let the sounds of real cowboy music serenade you, with performances by both local talents and nationwide artists, including Jeff Gore, Calvin Danner Hampton, Brennan Scott Greene, Caitlyn Taussig, Jean Prescott and Gary Prescott.

Chuckwagon Cookoff: Transport yourself back to the era of cattle drives with the Chuckwagon Cookoff. Sample authentic cowboy cuisine as chuckwagons from across the Southwest compete for culinary supremacy.

Craig Cameron Horse Clinic: Witness the magic of horsemanship as Craig Cameron, renowned as the "Cowboy's Clinician," shares his expertise in building trust and confidence between man and horse.

Ranch Rodeo: Cheer on real cowboys as they compete for the Ranch Rodeo crown, showcasing their skills honed through the daily rigors of ranch life.

WHC Invitational Ranch Horse Sale: Discover high-quality working ranch horses from some of the Southwest's most esteemed ranches at the Western Heritage Classic Invitational Ranch Horse Sale.

Roy Cox Cowdog Demonstration: Witness the incredible bond between man and dog as world-renowned cattle dog trainer Roy Cox demonstrates his remarkable training techniques.

Matched Horse Race World Finals: Experience the thrill of horse and rider facing off against the clock in one of the most popular events of the Western Heritage Classic.

Jake Hooker and the Outsiders: Dance the night away on Saturday to the tunes of Jake Hooker and the Outsiders, rounding off the weekend with toe-tapping melodies.

Cowboy Church Service: Wrap up your Western Heritage Classic experience with a moment of reflection and gratitude at the Cowboy Church Service on Sunday morning.