This Saturday, July 26 is the National Day of the American Cowboy — a day that honors the contributions of cowboys and cowgirls to American culture and heritage.
So today, to honor all the American cowfolk of our past and present, we wrangled up our tips and tricks on becoming one so you, too, can celebrate — and be celebrated.
Step 1: What to wear
The fun part is dressing up. Every good cowboy and cowgirl knows the proper uniform: hat, boots, and belt. For your hat — AKA your crown — visit The Best Hat Store. From felt hats to straw one, The Best Hat Store can shape your pick to your preference.
For boots, you can only shop at Tecovas. Not only do they have the widest selection, but sales associates also serve you free whiskey during your time there.
For a belt and other apparel, giddy up to Maverick Fine Western Wear. They have it all — men’s and women’s tops and bottoms, jeans, skirts, jewelry, bags, gifts, and more. Remember, when it comes to your belt buckle — the bigger, the better.
Step 2: What to do
It’s easy to dress the part. To compete in this day and age, you’re going to need a lot more than the right get-up. Consider taking riding lessons at Benbrook Stables. Lessons involve total horsemanship — from safety to riding skills to feeding and grooming your trusted steed.
Invest in land. We know we said “no ranch is required” in the beginning, but where else are you supposed to put your livestock? A few acres will do.
Watch every John Wayne movie ever made. No — John Wayne wasn’t a cowboy IRL, but he did portray the cowboy archetype in his films, and those films were influential in how we define Western grit. There’s a full list of movies at John Wayne: An American Museum.
If you’re a lonely cowboy or cowgirl looking for that special friend, look into weekly dance lessons at a local honky-tonk, such as Billy Bob’s Texas or Guitars and Cadillacs.
If you’re an introverted cowboy or cowgirl, YouTube is your friend.
Step 3: Where to go
Outfit? Check. Lessons? Check. Land? Double check. Now you just need a place to go to show off you’re flashy new outfit and those sharp skills of yours. We recommend starting at the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame or the National Cowgirl Museum to familiarize yourself with the successful cowboys and cowgirls who came before you.
Hit up the rodeo at Cowtown Coliseum. You want to know your competition, don’t you? Attend weekly PBR showcases and weekend championships. When you’re ready, boss — apply to become a contestant.
Join a club. This summer, the new private Cattlemen’s Club is opening up, and the who’s who of ranching will be there. You could bump shoulders with the likes of Rich Skelton, Duke Largo, or the boyfriend of supermodel Bella Hadid, Adán Banuelos.
We’re only kidding — kinda. Having the shiniest belt buckle or simply owning land won’t earn you cowboy status, but you can still have fun and act the part this Saturday in the Stockyards for the National Day of the American Cowboy celebration starting at 10 a.m.
