By City Manager Ken Striplin
Starting today, Santa Clarita will celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Cowboy Festival, a long-standing tradition that highlights the history and culture of the American West. The festival takes place today, Saturday, April 18, through Sunday, April 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at William S. Hart Park. This year also marks the first time the event will be held at the park under City ownership, an important step in preserving this tradition for future generations.
With large crowds expected, planning ahead will help ensure a smooth and safe experience. You may have noticed street closures began last night in Old Town Newhall and will remain in effect until Sunday at 8:00 p.m. Closures include Newhall Avenue between Market Street and 4th Street, and Main Street from 6th Street to the roundabout. To reduce congestion and improve access, residents are encouraged to use the free shuttle service picking up at 13th Street and Railroad Avenue to get to and from the festival. Shuttles will run continuously from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and will drop off visitors near the entrance. For an even simpler experience, Santa Clarita Transit will also be offering free rides to the festival to anyone dressed up in Western gear; hats, boots, fringe, it all counts. To plan out your ride, visit SantaClaritaTransit.com.
Throughout the weekend, more than 15 performers will take to three stages, featuring Western, country, folk and bluegrass music. Visitors can also expect roaming entertainment, including trick roper Dave Thornbury, along with a wide range of activities throughout the park. New and returning features offer something for all ages. The Horseshoe Honky Tonk will host line dancing lessons throughout the afternoon, while the Watering Hole provides a shaded space to cool down, complete with water access and live piano music by Katie Louise. The newly introduced Wildwood Outpost will feature whiskey tastings, and guests can also explore living history areas, including blacksmith demonstrations and a cattle camp, or visit Pioneer Corner for hands-on activities such as gold panning, candle making and leather stamping. Additional attractions include archery and axe-throwing at The Range, Gold Rush games and the mechanical bull.
For those looking to upgrade their experience, VIP options include access to the Cowboy Cantina, which offers food, refreshments and shaded seating throughout the day. For those planning to spend the full weekend in Old Town Newhall, the official host hotel, The Lexen, offers a convenient option within walking distance of the festival, allowing guests to enjoy the event while prioritizing safe travel.
Whether attending for the music, history or activities, the Cowboy Festival continues to be an opportunity for the community to come together and experience a piece of Santa Clarita’s heritage. For more information, visit CowboyFestival.org.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.
