NATIONAL DAYHISTORY & MILITARY

National Day of the Cowboy

Join us as we honor these iconic figures with a rich tradition that continues to inspire generations.

JUL25
Saturday, July 25Fourth Saturday in July
Roots
Campaign launched 2004; Senate-recognized
Vibe
A blend of rugged individualism and community spirit
Hashtag
#NationalDayOfTheCowboy
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Watch a Western

Watch a classic Western at home with popcorn and boots on.

WITH FRIENDS

Visit a rodeo

Head to a rodeo or ranch event with friends for the day.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Wear cowboy Friday

Wear boots and hats to work and share Western trivia.

Plan ahead

National Day of the Cowboy is observed on the fourth Saturday in July. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, Jul 25this year
2027Sat, Jul 24
2028Sat, Jul 22
2029Sat, Jul 28
2030Sat, Jul 27
2031Sat, Jul 26
2032Sat, Jul 24
2033Sat, Jul 23
2034Sat, Jul 22
2035Sat, Jul 28
2036Sat, Jul 26

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

About 800,000Ranchers work across all 50 states
Cowboy culture is celebrated in states across the country

The story

National Day of the Cowboy is observed on the fourth Saturday in July, a day first recognized by the U.S. Senate in 2007, following a campaign launched by American Cowboy magazine in 2004, to honor the contributions of cowboys and cowgirls to American culture. This celebration serves as a reminder of the hard work, resilience, and spirit of those who have dedicated their lives to the ranching and farming industries. The cowboy lifestyle is deeply woven into the fabric of American life, influencing everything from music and art to literature and fashion.

Read the full story

The cowboy's image evokes a sense of adventure and freedom, representing the American spirit of exploration. From cattle drives in the mid-1800s to the iconic rodeos of today, cowboys have played a vital role in shaping the agricultural landscape. Their skills in horsemanship and cattle herding have been passed down through generations, ensuring that the cowboy legacy remains alive and well. Communities across the nation celebrate this day with parades, rodeos, and cultural events that highlight the importance of ranching.

Every year, ranchers and rodeo enthusiasts gather to showcase their skills and share stories of the open range. The National Day of the Cowboy not only honors the past but also promotes the future of this cherished way of life. Events often feature traditional cowboy music, line dancing, and demonstrations of roping and riding, bringing together people of all ages to appreciate the rich heritage of cowboy culture.

In a world that often feels disconnected from its roots, the National Day of the Cowboy provides an opportunity for individuals and families to engage with history and celebrate the values the cowboy represents, hard work, integrity, and community. As the sun sets over the plains this July, take a moment to reflect on the enduring legacy of cowboys and cowgirls, and consider how their stories continue to shape our understanding of American identity.

Did you know?

01

The First Rodeo

Deer Trail, Colorado, claims the first recorded rodeo in 1869, though the title is disputed.

02

Cowboy Hats

The iconic cowboy hat, known as a Stetson, was created by John B. Stetson in 1865.

03

Cattle Drives

Cattle drives were essential for transporting cattle from ranches to markets, often covering hundreds of miles.

04

Famous Cowboys

Notable cowboys include Wild Bill Hickok, Buffalo Bill Cody, and Wyatt Earp.

05

Cowboy Poetry

Cowboy poetry is a unique genre that captures the stories and spirit of life on the range.

06

The Lasso

The lasso is a tool used by cowboys for catching livestock, showcasing their skill and training.

07

Modern Rodeos

Modern rodeos have evolved into competitive events with significant prize money, attracting participants worldwide.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesThe birthplace of cowboy culture, particularly in states like Texas, Wyoming, and Montana.
  • CACanadaHome to cowboys known as 'cowpokes,' particularly in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
  • AUAustraliaFeatures a strong ranching culture with 'stockmen' who share similarities with American cowboys.
  • MXMexicoThe origins of the cowboy tradition, with charros playing a similar role in Mexican culture.
  • BRBrazilKnown for its 'vaqueiros,' who manage cattle in the vast Brazilian plains.
  • ZASouth AfricaCattle ranching has deep roots here, with its own distinct traditions.

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