Each July the Empire Ranch Foundation celebrates the National Day of the Cowboy(NDOC) at the historic Empire Ranch. It’s a fun family event. We welcome participation in NDOC by vendors and non-profit organizations.
Plan to Attend the 2025 National Day of the Cowboy Celebration
National Day of the Cowboy
Preliminary Program as of 5/31/2025
Entertainment:
- Music by Jay Faircloth
- Cowgirl Poetry by Maria Eastman
Demonstrations/Activities
- Blacksmithing by Ron Applegate
- Hat Making by Mike Marsh Hats
- Horsemanship by Regi Richter Basinger
- Horse Shoeing by Tyler Basinger
- Ranching tools by Bill Schock
- Saddlemaking by Drew Bevan-Church
- Saddle demo & leather making by Mark Ellis & Rick Collins (try your hand at making small leather bags)
- Telegraphy by Joe Mortimer
Trail Rides
Take a 45-minute trail ride ($45). Riders must be age 8 or older; a parent/guardian must ride with children under 18 years of age. First ride of the day is at 8 am; last ride at noon. Registration ends July 20th!
**PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED**
Great Grub
Hamburger & Hot Dog lunch. ($10/plate). Lunch can be purchased in advance or at the event.
Docent Tours of the Empire Ranch House at 9, 10, and 11. Sign up at the Gift Shop.
Plan to shop in the ERF Gift Shop.
Vendors & Non-Profits:
- Friends of Sahuarita Community 4-H Club
Admission to the event is free (although a $10/vehicle parking donation is requested) making it an accessible outing for families and individuals interested in Western traditions.
