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Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

Do I need to buy tickets for the Cowboy Festival?

General admission is completely free! Enjoy access to live entertainment, Western vendors, and interactive experiences at no cost.

Looking to elevate your experience? Tickets are available for exclusive VIP access and special ticketed events happening throughout the weekend. We recommend purchasing early, as these events may sell out!

Visit Schedule for information on ticketed events throughout the Cowboy Festival weekend.

What kind of entertainment is on each stage?

  • MANE STAGE: Western Swing, Bluegrass, Americana

  • HART HALL: Cowboy Poetry, Storytelling

  • WHISTLE STOP STAGE: Western Swing, Americana

  • THE HORSESHOE HONKY TONK: Line Dancing (1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)

  • WATERING HOLE: Piano Tunes (10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.)

How can I find out when and where specific artists are performing?

Visit our Stages page for full details and schedules.

What are the festival hours?

The Cowboy Festival at William S. Hart Park takes place:

  • Saturday, April 12: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

  • Sunday, April 13: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Additional ticketed shows and tours occur Friday, April 11 to Sunday, April 13 at various times and locations. 

What additional events are taking place during the festival weekend?

In addition to the main festivities at William S. Hart Park, the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival offers several special events throughout the weekend:

  • VIP Cowboy Cantina
    Exclusive access with BBQ lunch, drinks, and performer meet-and-greets.
    Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Hart Hall Patio
  • Cody: An Evening with Buffalo Bill
    One-man show on the life of Buffalo Bill Cody.
    Thursday–Saturday, 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., The MAIN
  • Californio Fiesta at Rancho Camulos
    Western concert, lunch buffet, and museum tour.
    Friday, 11:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., Rancho Camulos Museum
  • Cowboy Family Night
    Family-friendly music and cowboy storytelling.
    Friday, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Newhall Family Theater
  • Dancing into the Dusk
    Line dancing, country music, mechanical bull, and food trucks.
    Saturday, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., William S. Hart Park
  • Songs from the Saddle
    Live Western & Cowboy music by artists from the International Western Music Association, California Chapter.
    Sunday, 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 PM, The MAIN

Visit Schedule to purchase tickets.

Transportation & Parking

Where can I park for the Cowboy Festival?

Free parking is available at the Cowboy Festival shuttle site, located at 13th Street and Railroad Avenue in Newhall. 

For more parking options within walking distance to the festival, please refer to the Plan Your Visit page.

How do I get to the shuttle site?

Festival Shuttle Address

Dirt lot at 13th Street & Railroad Avenue  (22400 13th St., Santa Clarita, CA 91321)

From Interstate 5:

  • Exit Lyons Avenue and proceed east for 2 miles
  • Turn left on Railroad Avenue and prepare for a right turn
  • Turn right onto 13th Street
  • Cross the railroad tracks to reach the shuttle site

From State Route 14:

  • Exit Newhall Avenue and stay to the right on Railroad Avenue

  • Turn right onto 13th Street

  • Cross the railroad tracks to reach the shuttle site

What are the shuttle hours?

  • Saturday, April 12: 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.

  • Sunday, April 13: 9:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Is the shuttle service available for all ticketed events?

No. The festival shuttle does not serve Rancho Camulos, The MAIN, or Newhall Family Theater. Attendees must arrange their own transportation to these venues.

Some other ticketed events may include shuttle service from the 13th Street shuttle site. Please refer to individual event listings for specific transportation details.

Are there any road closures during the festival?

Yes — we recommend planning ahead to avoid delays.

From Friday, April 11 at 8:00 p.m. through Sunday, April 13 at 8:00 p.m., the following road closures will be in effect:

  • Newhall Avenue will be closed between Market Street and 4th Street

  • Main Street will be closed from 6th Street to the Roundabout

Please allow extra time for travel and use alternate routes where possible.

Accessibility & Guest Services

Is the Cowboy Festival accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes! Our shuttle buses are ADA-equipped and can accommodate wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and other assistive devices.

Please note that the Cowboy Festival at William S. Hart Park is entirely outdoors and spread across a large area with natural terrain. While walkways and paths are maintained, we recommend planning ahead with:

  • Appropriate footwear (comfortable, closed-toe shoes)

  • Sun protection such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen

  • Water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day

There are no shuttle services within the park grounds, so attendees should be prepared for some walking between activity areas.

If you need a quiet space during the day, we invite you to visit our Chill Zone — a sensory-safe, calming environment designed for guests who may feel overwhelmed or overstimulated. The Chill Zone offers a comfortable place to relax, reset, and enjoy the festival at your own pace.

Where is the Lost and Found located?

The Lost and Found is located at the Information Booth near the festival entrance.

Festival Experience

Can I wear a costume or Western attire?

Yes! We love when guests embrace the spirit of the Old West. Western wear and period costumes are welcome and encouraged—just remember that no weapons of any kind, including costume props, are allowed on-site.

Bonus: If you’re dressed in Western attire, Santa Clarita Transit is offering free rides on Routes 4/14, 5/6, and 12 during Cowboy Festival weekend! Show your cowboy spirit and enjoy a convenient ride to the festivities.

Can I bring a camera to the festival?

Yes! Feel free to bring cameras, video cameras, and camcorders to capture the fun. Just be respectful of performers and other guests when filming or taking photos.

Can I bring my dog or service animal?

Yes! In addition to service animals, we welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs at the Cowboy Festival. Please ensure your pet is comfortable in large crowds and around noise. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and ensuring they remain under control at all times.

What fun activities are available at the festival?

There’s something for every cowboy, cowgirl, and cowpoke:

  • Live music on multiple entertainment stages, featuring Western Swing, Bluegrass, Americana, and Cowboy Poetry
  • Living history exhibits like the New Buffalo Soldiers, Blacksmith demonstrations, and historical reenactors
  • Try-it-yourself activities including Archery, Hatchet Throwing, and Rodeo Roping
  • A variety of food and gear vendors offering delicious bites and handcrafted goods
  • Line dancing at The Horseshoe Honky Tonk with the Bootscoot Bosses
  • Photo ops with classic Western backdrops and props
  • Official Cowboy Festival gear — including apparel, memorabilia, and music CDs

Want the full roundup? Visit our Things to Do page to explore all the experiences waiting for you at the park!

Are firearms allowed at the Cowboy Festival?

No. Firearms of any kind are strictly prohibited, including replicas and props as part of a costume.