Experience the Spirit of the Old West at Chisholm Trail Days in Abilene, Kansas

Visit one of the Top 10 True Western Towns in America and relive the history of the Wild West at Chisholm Trail Days, held at the iconic Old Abilene Town on August 30-31, 2024. This two-day celebration commemorates the historic first shipment of cattle from Abilene to eastern markets—a pivotal moment in the town’s storied past as the end of the Chisholm Trail.

Friday, August 30: Family Fun and Live Entertainment

Kick off your weekend with family-friendly activities that promise fun for all ages. The Kids Olympics at 5:00 pm offers a perfect opportunity for the little ones to burn off some energy while competing in a variety of games. Afterward, gather around for a delicious Chuck Wagon BBQ with all the fixings at 6:00 pm, where you can savor authentic Western fare just like the cowboys did after a long day on the trail.

As the sun sets, settle in for an evening of free entertainment under the pavilion. From 6:00 to 8:00 pm, enjoy the live tunes of Jayden Evans, a local favorite who will have you tapping your boots to the rhythm.

Saturday, August 31: A Full Day of Western Excitement

On Saturday, Old Abilene Town comes alive with the sights and sounds of the Old West from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The day’s festivities include a variety of events that capture the spirit of the frontier:

Watch as majestic longhorn cattle, the very symbol of the Chisholm Trail, parade through the streets of Old Abilene Town (noon and 2:30 p.m.,) a spectacle that will transport you back to the days when these cattle drives were a common sight in Abilene.

Gun Fights, Cancan Girls, and Line Dance: Feel the thrill of an Old West shootout, be entertained by the lively Cancan girls, and join in on a line dance that’ll have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a Western movie. 

• Gunfight - 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on the main street of Old Abilene Town
• Cancan girls - 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. in the Alamo Saloon
• Line Dance - 2 p.m. under the pavilion 

Fast Draw Competition and Mounted Color Guard: Test your skills in the fast draw competition or marvel at the precision of the mounted color guard as they demonstrate their expertise on horseback.
Stagecoach Rides: Take a ride in an authentic stagecoach and imagine what it was like to travel across the open plains in the 1800s.

• Mounted Color Gurade demonstration at 1 p.m. on the SE corner of Old Abilene Town.

Kids Games and Vendor Artisans: Keep the kids entertained with games designed just for them, and explore the offerings of local artisans selling handmade crafts and goods. Don’t forget to check out the food vendors for a taste of local flavors.

With two museums on site, there’s plenty of history to explore. Dive deeper into the legacy of the Chisholm Trail and learn about the cowboys, cattle, and commerce that shaped Abilene into the historic town it is today.

Saturday Night Concert and Dance

Cap off your Chisholm Trail Days experience with a night of music and dancing under the stars. From 8:00 to 11:00 pm, enjoy a concert by Savannah Chestnut and the Field Hands. Savannah, an up-and-coming country artist who recently opened for the legendary Sara Evans, will be performing live under the pavilion. Her blend of classic country sounds and modern influences promises a night to remember.

Plan Your Visit

Chisholm Trail Days at Old Abilene Town is the perfect way to experience the heritage of the American West in an authentic, engaging setting. Whether you’re a history buff, a country music fan, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, this event has something for everyone.

For more information and to plan your visit, check out Old Abilene Town’s website or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/oldabilenetown.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration of Abilene’s rich history. Saddle up and join us at Chisholm Trail Days—where the Old West lives on!

Admission

The cost of entry for Saturday’s event is $10 for adults and $5 for children between the ages of six and 12. Children ages five and under enter for free. The Savanna Chestnut concert will cost $10 at the door. Buying entry for the day and the concert together is $15. Stagecoach rides will cost $5.