In 1998, the slate of live music included rock, funk and jazz from Joan Jett, Kool and the Gang and Hiroshima. The Ostrich Festival usually takes place in mid-March, and admission is free. The work of more than 175 artists and artisans is featured in this juried outdoor show that is ranked among the top art festivals in the country. Adding to the ambience are musical performances on two stages, food and beverage booths and an area for children. The event takes place on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday in mid-March.
Admission is free.
Over four days, the festival presents Western music and movies, cowboy poetry and costume contests. All around the festival grounds are Western heroes and peddlers dressed in period costumes. A trade show features Western art and cowboy collectibles, and Rawhide's arena hosts the Southwest Cowboy Mounted Shooting Championships and the Ranch Rodeo. Each year the festival honors individuals who have helped preserve the Western lifestyle. Past honorees include Gene Autry, Ben Johnson and Denver Pyle.