Kick off your Western Heritage Classic experience in Downtown Abilene for the parade. Beginning at 6:30 PM on May 7th, the parade will take over Cypress Street. For the perfect view of the parade, stake out your spot early, then explore downtown coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants.

Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring art of cowboy poetry. Great storytellers and acclaimed cowboy poets will whisk you away with timeless verses, blending humor and reflection in an unforgettable evening under the vast Texas sky.

Delve into handmade craftsmanship at the Bit and Spur Show. Whether you need new items or repairs to leather staples, this is the place to find expert craftsmen. In addition, two buildings' worth of vendors are set up for the weekend with their best wares from jewelry and clothes to saddles and unique treasures. If you came to shop, you won't want to miss out on these vendors from across the state.

If you think you've seen all a rodeo can offer you are in for a surprise with the ranch rodeo. Teams from ranches across the nation compete for glory in five events based on real daily ranch work. From stray gathering to wild cow milking this will be an evening that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The inaugural Top Dog Competition will have ranchers and their horses and dogs competing against fellow cowboys. This event is designed to show what it is like to work on horseback with a dog in actual ranch jobs such as gathering, penning, and loading cattle into a trailer.

Spectators flock to the Raydon Race Track for the Matched Horse Race World Finals. This fast-paced event will have you cheering for your favorite horse as they go head-to-head in a 200-yard race against another horse and rider. Bets go flying as people gamble on fast sorrels and palominos to end up ahead at the finish line.

Pro Tip: Seats fill up fast so arrive early but plan to stay hydrated and keep cool.

The Chuckwagon lunch is a long-standing tradition of the Western Heritage Classic. This delicious lunch carries on the tradition of feeding cowboys during long cattle drives in a competitive atmosphere. Teams will prepare a hearty meal of chicken fried steak, potatoes, beans, sourdough biscuits, and peach cobbler to be judged based on taste, authenticity, and their ability to appear as if they stepped out of the 1800s.

Pro Tip: Tickets will sell out so be sure to grab yours early.

Whether you've been to Western Heritage Classic every year or it is your first time attending, the weekend offers an immersive journey through Texas tradition. From vendors and great food to live demonstrations and competitions, there is plenty for the whole family to do and experience.

What is included in my grounds pass?

Admission onto the grounds to: shop at the trade show, listen to the Cowboy Poetry and Fiddlers Contest, watch the Cowdog Demonstration & Horse Clinic, browse the Bit & Spur show, participate in the Horse Sale, and cheer at the Matched Horse Races. A Grounds Pass does NOT give you access to the Ranch Rodeo, Chuckwagon Lunch, or the concert/dances.

When do tickets go on sale?

April 13th at 10 AM.

Tickets

What are the dates for Western Heritage Classic

May 7 - 10, 2026