Every July in Bridgeport, a remarkable gathering brings together Western artists, makers, ranchers, cowboys, musicians, poets, and food lovers for one of the Eastern Sierra’s most thoughtfully designed events.
The setting is as wild as the gathering itself: wide-open skies, working ranchlands, and the dramatic landscape of Bridgeport, California. It is an unforgettable mix of food, music, art, and Western culture in a truly one-of-a-kind location.
More Than a Western Art Show
The Rodear is a three-day celebration of Western art, culture, and community. Now entering its sixth year, the nonprofit event was created to support women artists and makers through exhibitions, mentorship, education, and scholarships.
Its mission is rooted in both preservation and progress. The Rodear honors the skills, stories, and traditions of the American West while creating opportunities for the women carrying those traditions forward. Painters, silversmiths, leatherworkers, poets, musicians, ranchers, and other makers come together to share their work and pass their knowledge to the next generation.
Held at Bridgeport Ranch, where the high desert meets the Sierra Nevada, the gathering feels closely connected to the land and culture that inspire it. Guests can meet artists, shop for original work, take part in hands-on workshops, share a meal, listen to live music, and experience Western culture as something living and evolving—not something confined to the past.
Three Days of Art, Food, Music, and Community
This year, the event begins with a intimate Thursday evening experience limited to 50 guests. The opening night includes a private gallery preview, a farm-to-table dinner prepared by fifth-generation rancher and chef Adele Nash, wine from Napa Valley winemaker Haley Wight, and performances by Wylie Gustafson, Trinity Seely, and poet Amy Hale.
Friday evening offers the first full look at the 2026 artists and makers, with the Barn Gallery and Trade Show open for viewing and shopping. Guests will gather for dinner before performances by Jessie Veeder, Jade Brodie, and Annie Mackenzie.
On Saturday, the Trade Show is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is an opportunity to browse and purchase original artwork, handmade goods, jewelry, leatherwork, and other pieces directly from participating makers.
The ticketed Saturday evening program includes dinner, a live auction supporting the Sallie Knowles Joseph Scholarship Fund, and music under the open sky from Sterling Drake. Children 12 and younger may attend the Friday and Saturday evening events free of charge.
Learn From the Makers
The Rodear is not simply a place to look at Western art—it is an opportunity to learn how it is made.
Five workshops are part of the 2026 program, with subjects ranging from traditional beadwork and equine drawing to silversmithing, leatherwork, and creative writing. Classes are taught in small groups by accomplished artists and makers, giving participants direct access to skills and traditions rarely offered in this kind of setting.
Workshop participants can learn traditional flat-style beadwork from Shoshone-Paiute artist Robin Egan, practice drawing horses from life with Lucile Wedeking at the historic Hunewill Ranch, fabricate a sterling-silver cuff with Jill Latno-Yamate, or explore writing as a daily creative practice with author Amy Hale.
Some workshops begin before the official Thursday opening, so participants should review the complete schedule before making travel plans. Workshop registration is separate from admission to the evening events.
Art With a Larger Purpose
At the heart of The Rodear is the Sallie Knowles Joseph Scholarship Program, which provides educational opportunities for women working in the Western arts.
Proceeds from the annual gathering, live auction, memberships, and donations help fund scholarships, exhibitions, workshops, mentorship, and year-round outreach. The goal is not only to celebrate established artists but also to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to learn, create, and build sustainable careers.
That mission gives the weekend a sense of purpose beyond the performances, meals, and beautiful objects. Every purchase, auction bid, ticket, and donation contributes to a broader creative community.
Make a Weekend of It
Bridgeport is a fitting home for The Rodear. The historic ranching town is surrounded by some of the Eastern Sierra’s most striking landscapes and is within reach of Bodie State Historic Park, Mono Lake, Yosemite National Park, hot springs, fishing, hiking, and miles of open country.
Visitors should plan for warm summer days, cool evenings, and limited cell service. Bringing layers and some cash is recommended, as not every vendor may be able to accept cards. Camping is not available at the event site, and dogs are not permitted except for certified service animals. Bridgeport and the surrounding area offer a variety of inns, motels, campgrounds, and RV accommodations.
The Rodear is polished without feeling overly produced, intimate without being exclusive, and deeply connected to the people and landscapes of the West. It is part art show, part concert, part shared table, and part celebration of a creative culture that continues to evolve.
For anyone drawn to Western art, handmade craftsmanship, live music, good food, ranch culture, or the open landscapes of the Eastern Sierra, The Rodear deserves a place on the summer calendar.
The Rodear
July 23–25, 2026
Bridgeport Ranch
68 Twin Lakes Road
Bridgeport, California
Explore the event, schedule, workshops, and tickets at TheRodear.org
