NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY
National Day of the Cowboy on the fourth Saturday in July recognizes the stoic, hardworking symbol of the American West.
#NationalDayOfTheCowboy
The era of the cowboy began after the Civil War in the heart of Texas. Cattle were herded long before this time, but in Texas, they grew wild and unchecked. As the country expanded, the demand for beef in the northern territories and states increased. With nearly 5 million head of cattle, cowboys moved the herds on long drives to where the profits were.
The draw of riches and adventure mixed with tales of violence. Among the grand backdrop of the Great Plains, the mythological image of the cowboy emerged.
Where the dust settles reveals much of the stoic truth of the American cowboy and cowgirl. The life of a cowboy required a particular ability to live in a frontier world. To do so requires respect, loyalty, and a willingness to work hard.
In the words of former President George W. Bush, “We celebrate the Cowboy as a symbol of the grand history of the American West. The Cowboy’s love of the land and love of the country are examples for all Americans.”
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY
Celebrate with a cowboy you know and post on social media using #NationalDayOfTheCowboy. Enjoy a western novel or movie, attend a rodeo, and embrace the cowboy way of life.
NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY HISTORY
According to the National Day of the Cowboy Organization, this day “…is a day set aside to celebrate the contributions of the Cowboy and Cowgirl to America’s culture and heritage.” The NDOC continuously pursues national recognition of National Day of the Cowboy. Currently, 14 states recognize this day. The first celebration was in 2005.
DATES:
23 July 2022
22 July 2023
27 July 2024
26 July 2025
25 July 2026
24 July 2027
22 July 2028
28 July 2029
27 July 2030
