When Rawhide Western Town celebrates its 41st birthday this weekend, you might expect a character in a Stetson and spurs to blow out — or maybe shoot out — the candles on a cake.
What you’ll see is a stuntman, dropping 75 feet through the air in a “High Fall” to mark the occasion.
The fall, slated for 6 p.m. Saturday, coincides with the cutting of the cake. It’s the high point of an anniversary weekend full of free entertainment.
Cowboys will face off in mock gunfights in the 1880s-themed town Saturday and Sunday, while J.P. Sage’s Shoot to Thrill Show will spotlight gun spinning and trick shooting. The Texas Kate Wild West Show will display the skills and antics of a world champion trick rider.
You’ll also find train and stagecoach rides, a petting zoo, gold panning, a shooting gallery and live country music and cowboy stories.
Pigs will race at Rawhide Downs, and there’s a pie eating contest. You can also try hanging onto a mechanical bull, climbing on a rock wall or riding a live burro.
Bull riding starts at 7 p.m. Saturday, and it’s the only thing that will cost you; admission to that GCPRA-sanctioned event is $5 per person.
The rest of the activities are free, and kids will get a free hat and bandana, while supplies last.
DETAILS >> Festivities begin at noon Saturday and Sunday. Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler. Free admission and parking; print a coupon online for complimentary access to all activities. (480) 502-5600 or www.rawhide.com
