Martin Black to Give Keynote Address

Renowned horseman and Owyhee Desert local Martin Black will give the keynote address at the 42nd Gathering. Martin grew up on the family ranch in Bruneau, Idaho. After high school, he worked on ranches in Idaho, Nevada, and California, and later managed the Wine Cup Gamble Ranches before going into business for himself. He continues the buckaroo (vaquero) tradition of working horses in a way that allows them to become confident and independent in any situation. Read more about Martin here.

Photo by Charlie Ekburg

Ask a Cowboy Poet

In this month's column, the cowboy poets share the poems that speak most deeply to them as they answer the question "What is the one poem that bares your soul? The one that says something you might not otherwise know how to say?" Their responses are reminders of how music and poetry connect and comfort us, no matter the time or place.

Photo by Charlie Ekburg

Ticket Tips

Tickets are on sale to members right now. Members get a $20 discount on Deluxe Passes until September 9th. On September 10th, 9am PT, ticket sales open to everyone! We compiled a short list of highlights below:

• Floral Leather Carving: Learn to carve California style (and take home a photo album to put your Gathering memories in) from this year's wild rag artist Tony Pedrini and his father Pedro Pedrini
• Bones: Learn to play one of the earliest rhythm instruments in history from the American Songster and bona fide bones player Dom Flemons.
• Branding Meal: Prepare for the next branding season with this workshop taught by the ultimate branding meal experts—the Elko County CattleWomen.
• Cowboy Continuum: Sourdough Slim & Robert Armstrong, Rusty Phillips, and Sam Platts team up to take us on a musical journey through eras of song and the expanse of the West.

Photo by Jessica Brandi Lifland

Introducing Gathering Circle

This fall, we’re introducing the Gathering Circle, a special group recognizing and celebrating the Western Folklife Center’s most dedicated annual supporters. Gathering Circle members—those giving $1,000 or more each year—receive all the benefits of Platinum membership, plus a dedicated point of contact, Kris Kirkpatrick, who is here to help with everything from planning your Gathering visit to learning more about WFC’s programs. Members will also receive invitations to special Western Folklife experiences happening throughout the West. The Gathering Circle support provides critical funding for today’s programs while helping us invest in new ideas and ensure the future of our mission.

Photo by Marla Aufmuth

Become a Member

Support the Western Folklife Center

by becoming a member!

Memberships are good for a full year. By joining now, you'll receive free tickets to select National Cowboy Poetry Gathering shows, a free poster for pickup at the Gathering, and a year-round discount in the Gift Shop.