What began as a one-day celebration now fills three days (June 12-14, 2009) with music, heritage, vittles and, of course, cowboys, horses and cattle. Events and activities are being scheduled to entertain youth and seniors alike. Top entertainers in the Western music field are being booked and facilities remodeled in anticipation of the large crowds that are expected.

Returning this year is the popular sunrise cattle round-up on the Bar-W Ranch, with biscuits, gravy and cowboy coffee. Entertainment will feature Western bands and vocalists, cowboy poets and story tellers, a street dance, a large exhibit hall filled with vendors, and a cowboy parade complete with Longhorn cattle.

Also planned are a Range War shoot-out on Carrizozo’s main street; a Kid’s Rodeo (non-livestock); a golf tournament; a Wild West Ranch Rodeo and Pony Rides; cowboy church services; and other events still in the planning stages.

"Polish your boots, shine your spurs, dust off your hat and ride on down to Carrizozo for Cowboy Days," said Michael Cerletti, Secretary of the New Mexico Tourism Department. "This down-home celebration gives New Mexicans and their visitors the opportunity to explore one of the state’s most scenic areas, and at the same time, share in a family experience sure to be treasured."

For more information call, 575-648-2265 or 575-648-2912 or write zozobandit@tularosa.net