Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering returns for 18th/19th year
"Buck Stops Here" is the title of this year's Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering promotional painting by world renowned western and wildlife artist R. G. Finney of Riverside. For the past 17 years Finney and his wife Lynn have donated a painting which is featured on posters, in advertisements and press releases and fund raising including raffling off a framed print.
The Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering will be celebrating two years in one this summer. The annual event, which sees cowboy poets and musicians from across the country descend upon Encampment, was cancelled last year due to the coronavirus (COVID-19).
This year, however, the event will return with plenty of bang for your buck; especially since it will be free.
Beginning on Friday, July 16, attendees will be able to take in a free open mic poetry/music event before gathering around the campfire at Grand View Park in Encampment for a jam session. On Saturday, July 17, the morning will begin with a free self defense seminar followed by a fee-charged lunch served by the Encampment/Riverside Lions Club. All proceeds go towards community projects.
At noon, a free western entertainment roundup featuring a dozen performers will begin. Then, at 7 p.m., the free "All Star Cowboy Poetry/Music Show" take place. Headliners include Jeff Gore, Many Strings & Co and Deanna Dickinson McCall. Local cowboy poet and musician Daron Little will emcee the event.
That same night will see the presentation of the pioneer award and the selection of the raffle winner of the print "Buck Stops Here" by local artist R.G. Finney. Afterwards, dance to the music of The Poudre Valley Playboys with Jason Swedlund at the Grand Encampment Opera House. Admission to the dance is $5 per person.
Sunday morning starts with a cowboy ranch breakfast, a fee will be charged, followed by free Cowboy Church. Throughout the weekend, Connie Wagnon's famous cinnamon rolls will be available.
According to the Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering outfit, there free events are possible due to the steadfast and generous support of partners and friends over the past 17 years. Additionally, the cancellation of last year's event led to unanticipated revenue and leaving the outfit "with a pocket full of money".
According to the release "As with most cowboys, the cash is burning a hole in our pockets, so we are inviting all of you to a weekend of free cowboy poetry and music. All folks need to bring is themselves and a folding chair."
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