I was recently riding with Sandy Bruce, one of the organizers of the Durango (Colorado) Cowboy Poetry Gathering which will be held this year October 4-7, 2012. The Gathering is the second oldest cowboy poetry event.
From their website “The Gathering is an exciting, fun-filled event with evening performances and Saturday daytime sessions. Poets and musicians from throughout the country grace our intimate stage at The Strater Theater, performing classic and contemporary poems and songs that will bring tears to your eyes and keep you in stitches.”
This year will feature singer Ian Tyson, poet Doris Daley, and at least 30 other singers and poetry readers. Arizona cowboy poet and singer Tom Weathers will host the event. There’s a parade, a train ride, a trail ride, concerts, an art show and a whole lot of fun.
“The Durango Cowboy Gathering, Inc. is a non-profit organization working to preserve and perpetuate the traditions of working ranch people in the American West. We celebrate the lifeways of rural people by creating the “campfire” around which anyone with an interest can come to share in the appreciation of the culture and traditions unique to the West. Monies received support our annual Gathering and youth programs.” The Board has chosen to keep the Gathering focused on performers who have actually worked as cowboys or ranchers.
You can get more information at their website by clicking HERE.