We had a Gathering as big as Texas!
Alpine: Our Roots and Heart
The beautiful campus of Sul Ross State University hosted a smaller, more intimate Gathering for 2026. Attendees heard 18 poets and musicians, and a keynote address from poet/songwriter Andy Wilkinson. Local staff and volunteers kept everything running smoothly, and Kay Nowell, co-chair, pronounced it "a heck of a Gathering." Mark your calendar now for Feb. 18-20, 2027 for the next Gathering in Alpine. Become a member to support the Gathering. Performer? Apply now for 2027 events.
In the media: Marfa Public Radio, February 25, 2026, "Desert Dispatch Vol. 60: The Year of The Horse." By Lindsey Hauck. Photo by Abe Karleen, courtesy of the Lone Star Cowboy Poetry Gathering.
Bastrop: New Venues, New Faces
With an audience of longtime Gathering attendees and many others new to the genre, 35 performers lit up the stages of four different Bastrop venues with authentic cowboy poetry and music. Faces, first hesitant, settled into what seemed like permanent smiles as listeners and performers enjoyed the weekend and each others' company. We plan to be back in Bastrop Sep. 3-4, 2027. Become a member to support the Gathering. Performer? Apply now for 2027 events.
In the media: KUT 90.5, February 24, 2026, "At Bastrop's Lone Star Cowboy Poetry Gathering, performers share love songs about life on the range." By Paul Carruba. Photos by Lorianne Willett.
Scenes from the press conference with Barry Corbin.
Spotlight
The Gathering in 4 Minutes
Curious about cowboy poetry and what happens at a cowboy poetry gathering? Our four-minute film by John and Erika Moore will give you some ideas. You'll see snippets of performances, scenes from our chuckwagon breakfasts, and more.
"People are fascinated about stuff that is real . . . When someone is talking about the way they live, and inviting you into their world, and sharing that with you, it's a powerful thing."
"Well, it's not poetry, and it's not music — it's both. But more than that, it's where you came from . . . It comes out of stillness."
NOTE: Use the 4-arrow icon in the bottom right corner of the player to go fullscreen for easier viewing.
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Thanks to Our 2025 Sponsors
Hotel Parker / Spicewood Restaurant
Special Sponsors
City of Alpine · Kay & Gene Nowell · Hilltop Livestock of Alpine · NP Cattle Co
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Puncher Sponsors:
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