The National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, know as the “Gathering,” is a mid-winter, multi-generational, celebration of artists, regional food, art, gear, film, discussions, dance, music, and verse, among other aspects of western life.

The event traces its humble beginnings in back to1985, when a small group of folklorists and poets hosted a Gathering at the Western Folklife Center in Elko, Nevada. The event has since grown into a national and international Gathering that features entertainment and educational programs highlighting the cultural expressions of the western U.S.

ajc had the distinct pleasure of sitting in on the Gathering earlier this month. This year’s event was a bit different than year’s past–ajc’s Heber Slabbert presented conceptual design plans to renovate the existing, historic Pioneer Hotel, adjacent to the Western Folklife Center. The plans were created to generate interest in the renovation, help fund its construction, and further enhance the experience of the Gathering.