Visit Abilene Kansas
Abilene, recognized as one of the Top 10 True Western Towns in America, will host its annual Chisholm Trail Days on August 30-31, 2024, at the historic Old Abilene Town.
This two-day event commemorates and celebrates the town’s role in the Wild West era, marking the first shipment of cattle from Abilene to eastern markets—a key moment in its history as one of the final destinations of the Chisholm Trail.
Family Fun and Entertainment on Friday
The festivities begin on Friday, August 30, with a variety of family-friendly activities. At 5:00 p.m., children can participate in the Kids Olympics, where they can enjoy a series of games designed to engage and entertain. Following the games, a Chuck Wagon BBQ will be served at 6:00 p.m., offering attendees a taste of authentic Western cuisine.
The evening will feature a free live music performance by local artist Jayden Evans from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. under the pavilion. Evans, known for his energetic performances, is expected to draw a crowd, making it a lively start to the weekend.
Saturday: A full Day of Western traditions
On Saturday, August 31, Old Abilene Town will be transformed into a bustling scene reminiscent of its Wild West days. From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., attendees can immerse themselves in a variety of Western-themed activities. Highlights include a longhorn cattle parade through the streets, harkening back to the days when cattle drives through downtown Abilene were a common sight to see.
Visitors can also witness reenactments of gunfights, enjoy performances by Cancan girls, and participate in a line dance. For those looking to test their skills, a fast draw competition will be held, and the mounted color guard will display their horsemanship.
Additional attractions include stagecoach rides, kids' games, and a marketplace featuring local artisans and food vendors. The two on-site museums offer further insights into the Chisholm Trail’s history and Abilene’s development as a cattle town.
Evening concert to close the celebration
The celebration will conclude on Saturday night with a concert and dance from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. Savannah Chestnut and the Field Hands will headline the event, performing a mix of classic and contemporary country music. Chestnut, who has opened for country star Sara Evans, is expected to deliver a memorable performance that will cap off the weekend’s festivities.
For more information about the event, visit Old Abilene Town’s website or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/oldabilenetown.