With its rich Western traditions, love for the outdoors and appreciation of good food, there is quite a bit to celebrate in the state of Wyoming. All throughout the state there are festivals and fun events planned on an ongoing basis. This is particularly true during the midst of the hot days of summer. So, regardless of which region you may be visiting, there is bound to be a fun festival planned nearby. Here are some of our favorite festivals taking place this season across the state.
1. River Festival
The River Festival is hosted by the Green River Chamber of Commerce and takes place in Green River on Aug. 16 and 17 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. The festival includes several fun activities for every member of the family. A sample of activities that will take place on Friday, Aug. 16 include a cajun shrimp boil, the great duck race and fireworks. A sample of activities that will take place on Saturday, Aug. 17 includes the Run with the Horses Marathon, a car show and a dog show. Both days include free kids games, a hula-hoop contest and a micro brew garden.
While visiting Green River, take the time to check out the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge.
Located approximately 30 miles northeast of Green River, the wildlife refuge is rich in historic resources and includes land to hunt, fish and view wildlife. The refuge includes 27,230 acres of protected riparian, wetland and upland shrub habitats. You will enjoy the peace and tranquility that the beautiful land has to offer.
2. Cheyenne Kiwanis Ribfest
If you love ribs, the Cheyenne Kiwanis Ribfest is a must do. The three-day event takes place Friday, Aug. 16 to Sunday, Aug. 18 and is held at the Cheyenne Depot. There will be an endless sampling of ribs from excellent cooks around the country. Don’t miss the “best rib competition” when the winner of the rib competition is crowned as the best rib cook. In addition to ribs, the festival includes live music, games for kids and a car show.
While in Cheyenne, be sure to visit the Bit-O-Wyo Ranch for a true taste of Western style entertainment and hospitality. Take a scenic horse trail ride and experience the beautiful Wyoming landscape. Each night there is a cowboy dinner show featuring a cowboy steak dinner with baked beans and applesauce. The ranch is open during the summer months and provides endless Western entertainment.
3. Pepsi Wyoming State BBQ and Championship and Bluegrass Festival
Located at the Washakie County Fairgrounds in the beautiful town of Worland, the 9th Annual Pepsi Wyoming State BBQ Championship and Bluegrass Festival will take place on Aug. 16 and Aug. 17. Participants present their best recipes for beef brisket, pulled pork, ribs and chicken, and, the best part about the festival — it’s free admission! The best BBQ cooks will compete for more than $6,975, ensuring that excellent food will be served. So come enjoy two days of mouthwatering food and rocking music from world-class chefs in Northwest Wyoming.
While in Worland, take the time to fish the world-class Big Horn River. A fly-fisher’s paradise, the Big Horn River is filled with brown trout, rainbow trout and cutthroat trout. If you have the time, head 33 miles south to one of the world’s largest mineral hot springs located in Thermopolis. Spend the day relaxing in the warm, bubbling water.
4. Flying Cowboys Annual Fly-In
It’s a bird, it’s a plan, it’s the Flying Cowboys Annual Fly-In! On Sept. 6 through Sept. 8, pilots from 5 separate states bring more than 200 planes that are on display and in flight from sunup to sundown. This event is located just west of Sheridan and is a must see for all plane lovers as there will be all types of planes — from small electric powered flyers to 10’ wingspan giants powered by large gasoline engines.
While in Sheridan, make sure to visit the Historic Main Street District and learn about the town’s rich history. Take a ride on the trolley for a guided historic tour, which picks up and drops off at the Visitors Information Center on East Fifth Street. The trolley will make frequent stops at museums, select retail stores and restaurants. The historic Main Street is a local favorite.