If you are near New Mexico October 8-10 this year I highly recommend attending the Lincoln County Cowboy Symposium that takes place at Ruidoso Downs Race Track in Ruidoso.
New Mexico plays host to the nation’s finest cowboy poets, musicians (including the world famous Texas Playboys), chuck wagon cooks, western artists and craftsmen for three days of events, competitions, and workshops. In 1996, the symposium was selected as the Best Cowboy Cultural Event by the National Cowboy Symposium Association. Even Craig Cameron will be doing a demonstration this year.
One of the best parts are the 25 frontier-era chuckwagons each containing a crew for the cook-off. Each crew gets identical portions of beef, beans, flour, potatoes, onions and dried fruit. They must then prepare five dishes (meat, beans, bread, potatoes, dessert) for the judges plus 50 guests.
Judges grade every detail of the wagons and camp setups. Wagons must be drivable, tents and teepees made of canvas. Iron wheels or rubber tires aren’t allowed. Cooks must wear period clothing – tough denim pants with suspenders, boots, worn cowboy hats, collarless button-up shirts for the men. Bonnets and dresses with full sleeves that taper at the wrists for women. Points are deducted for modern wristwatches, sunglasses or cell phone.
The winner gets a HUGE silver and gold belt buckle and of course bragging rights. And prize money of $12,000 is awarded the top teams.
You can get more information at their website by clicking HERE.
If you have problems seeing the video below click HERE
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