Winnsboro Cowboy Music and Poetry Gathering

Start: Friday, September 25, 2026 5:00PM
End: Saturday, September 26, 2026 10:00PM

Cowboy Music and Poetry Gathering returns to Winnsboro September 25–26 Celebrate cowboy culture with songs, stories, cowboy grub and Western Swing Dance! The 5th Annual Winnsboro Cowboy Music and Poetry Gathering returns to historic downtown Winnsboro Friday and Saturday, September 25 and 26. The event, hosted by Winnsboro Center for the Arts, celebrates the rich traditions, music, poetry and storytelling of the American West and ranch life. It includes both ticketed performances and FREE family-friendly activities, open mic opportunities and Western-themed vendors. All activities and performances take place in downtown Winnsboro, one of Texas' designated Cultural Districts, which features the Bowery pedestrian zone, charming boutiques, quaint eateries, and the WCA and its new Creative Learning Center. The event kicks off with one of the weekend’s most popular events. Friday’s Cowboy Gathering Chili Cook-off and Tasting at 5 p.m. gives attendees an opportunity to sample award-winning chili while enjoying live music and fellowship. Friday evening brings the first of four concerts, all featuring nationally recognized cowboy poets, musicians, storytellers and artists for an unforgettable experience honoring cowboy heritage. At 7:30 p.m., award-winning cowboy performers Joel Nelson, Pipp Gillette, Lloyd Wright and Joel Alden White take the WCA Bowery stage, bringing with them music that reflects combined decades of experience as both working cowboys and performing artists. Saturday’s afternoon features two open-mic performances. Cowboy poets, Western musicians, storytellers and performers who celebrate the spirit and heritage of the American West can sign up here! Saturday’s toe-tapping continues with a 4 p.m. concert on The Bowery Stage featuring the popular Kristyn Harris Trio, poet Teresa Burleson and singer/poet Ed Meyer. At 7 p.m., Andy Hedges, Chris Ryden and Rod Taylor take the stage. At 8:30, the boot-scootin’ moves inside the new Creative Learning Center to the second floor for Western Swing Dancing with Miss Devon and the Outlaw’s Amigos. Guests here are encouraged to kick up their heels and celebrate music that has become a treasured part of Texas culture. The event also includes Cowboy Tales, a FREE exhibition at the WCA September 23 through November 14 that illustrates the theme of western culture and imagery. "The Winnsboro Cowboy Music and Poetry Gathering has become one of East Texas' premier celebrations of Western heritage," said Delyse Hart, event chair. "Whether you're a lifelong cowboy poetry enthusiast or experiencing cowboy culture for the first time, you'll find outstanding entertainment, warm hospitality and authentic Western traditions throughout the weekend." The event is expected to draw about 1,500 guests. “Appreciation for Western and cowboy heritage runs deep in our East Texas community,” said Mary White, WCA executive director. “And this annual gathering offers a space where tradition is not only revered, but brought vividly to life through storytelling, music and shared experiences.” WCA plays a key role in bringing cultural programming, exhibitions and entertainment to Winnsboro and East Texas. WCA is supported in part by grants from the Texas Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Winnsboro’s Cultural District is recognized by the Texas Commission on the Arts for its vibrant arts scene. Winnsboro is also recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as a Texas Main Street Community and an accredited member of Main Street America for its successful downtown revitalization. For more information about the town’s Cowboy Music and Poetry Gathering, and other cultural events, visit the website. ABOUT WINNSBORO CENTER FOR THE ARTS: Winnsboro Center for the Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Winnsboro, Texas. As a multi-disciplinary arts center, it serves communities throughout Northeast Texas, engaging people in educational programming, cultural experiences, and entertainment. All scheduled programs are subject to change