OKLAHOMA CITY, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026 — The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City will host Boley Rodeo Day on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., celebrating the legacy of the nation’s oldest Black rodeo and honoring the contributions of Black cowboys to the history of the American West.
The event is open to the public, and the museum invites visitors of all ages to experience the demonstrations, music, art and storytelling that will fill the day.
Held the day before the historic Boley Rodeo in Boley, Oklahoma, begins — and the day before the museum’s own Chuck Wagon Festival — Boley Rodeo Day strengthens the partnership between the museum and Boley Rodeo while spotlighting Western heritage, rodeo history and artistic excellence.
“Boley Rodeo has shaped the story of Black rodeo for more than a century, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations,” said Joey Niebrugge, rodeo engagement manager at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. “We’re excited to welcome the Boley community and the general public to join us for Boley Rodeo Day as we celebrate the cowboys, families and traditions that have defined this historic event and continue to shape Western culture today.”
“Boley Rodeo is more than an event — it’s a living celebration of community, culture and history,” said Karen Ekuban, Boley alumna and founder of the Project 2020 Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing Boley and other historic Black towns of Oklahoma.
“I’m grateful for the museum’s commitment to sharing this story. Together, we’re bringing wider recognition to the Black cowboys, artists and families who have shaped Boley’s legacy for generations,” she said.
Admission is $25; children 5 and under are free.
For more information and to purchase advance tickets, visit https://nationalcowboymuseum.org/event/boley-rodeo-day/
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
“Boley: Turn of the Century” in Prosperity Junction — 10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Step into a reimagined version of the Boley Historic District, brought to life inside Prosperity Junction, the museum’s life-size, turn-of-the-century town. Visitors can explore a curated photographic exhibition showcasing early Main Street businesses, landmark buildings and the people who shaped this nationally significant Black town. Children can participate in hands-on activities inspired by frontier life, and the Prosperity Junction theater will feature a looping presentation of the 2025 Boley Rodeo. Throughout the day, a historian will share immersive stories that connect Boley’s past to its enduring legacy.
Unveiling of “Like Father, Like Son” — 10:30 a.m.
The day will open with a public unveiling of “Like Father, Like Son,” a photograph that celebrates the legacy of familial tradition within Black rodeo history. Media are invited to attend.
Roping demonstration with world champion bull rider Danell Tipton — 1 to 3:15 p.m.
Guests will experience a live roping demonstration by IPRA world champion Danell Tipton, who will showcase roping technique and rodeo skill.
Painting demonstration with Prix de West artist Thomas Blackshear II — 12:30 to 3 p.m.
Renowned artist Thomas Blackshear II will conduct a live painting session and offer insight into his creative process.
Cowboy Concert featuring Grammy Award-winning artist Tony Williams — 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
The event concludes with an outdoor musical performance by Grammy Award winner Tony Williams, accompanied by a five-piece brass band, two keyboards and a 30-member choir.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES
- Continuous screening of rare 1920s Bill Pickett bulldogging footage on the museum’s entrance video wall.
- A Boley Rodeo Day visitor map highlighting Black stories and artifacts throughout the museum.
- Photo exhibitions and custom signage guiding guests through all programming.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL COWBOY & WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City is America’s premier institution of Western history, art and culture. For more than 60 years, the Museum has preserved and interpreted the evolving story of the American West for tens of millions of visitors from around the world. Learn more at nationalcowboymuseum.org.
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