October 13-21 | Schedule of Events & Details
Enjoy a fun-filled week of family-friendly activities to celebrate the new addition at the National Ranching Heritage Center! Some programs require reservations. Even if programs are filled, we still invite you out to explore the new facility. Please see the details for each day below.
Friday, Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. | Hank the Cowdog Concert – SOLD OUT
An hour of fun and wholesome family entertainment! Through songs and readings, John R. Erickson brings to life the characters from his award-winning Hank the Cowdog series of books and audio books with special guests, Kris and Mark Erickson. Following the concert, John R. Erickson will hold a book signing.
Saturday, Oct. 14 All Day | Coloring Contest
Stop in “Security Headquarters” in the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center to enter a Hank the Cowdog coloring contest. Winning entries will be featured on the National Ranching Heritage Center’s social media outlets. While you are inside, visit Hank the Cowdog’s desk to receive clues to solve a ranch mystery!
Sunday, Oct. 15 from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. | Ranch Wildlife – SOLD OUT
There are many species of wildlife you might see on a ranch. The South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center will be in the amphitheater with their wildlife ambassador animals for a presentation about native wildlife. Afterwards, explore the Prairie Ecology exhibit and try to identify wildlife tracks in the outdoor exhibit! Reserve Your Spot
Monday, Oct. 16 from 1:30 – 3 p.m. | Cattle Basics – SOLD OUT
As Hank the Cowdog says, cattle are eating machines that can turn grass into delicious beef, which is a nifty trick. Learn about these amazing animals as you explore the Cattle Basics exhibit and see cattle up close in the amphitheater. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a staff–led cattle breeds activity in “Security Headquarters.” Reserve Your Spot
Tuesday, Oct. 17 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | The Perfect Ranch Horse – SOLD OUT
What traits make up a perfect ranch horse? Do they learn these traits or are they born with them? Get the answers to these questions, and many more, and even meet a horse in the amphitheater. Reserve Your Spot
Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 3:00 p.m. | Texas Tech Masked Rider
The Masked Rider will be in the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center to welcome visitors and take photos. Come out and say hi!
Wednesday, Oct. 18 from 2 – 3 p.m. | Day in the Life of a Cowboy – SOLD OUT
Learn what tools, equipment and gear it takes to be a cowboy from real working cowboys. Put your knowledge to the test as we play the new Ranch Life Learning game, A Day in the Life of a Cowboy.”
Thursday, Oct. 19 at 10 a.m. | Toddlers Explore!
Calling all littles! Children 4 & under can explore the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center while you play in Sally May’s kitchen and explore little Alfred’s collection of Happy Toy Maker pickups, trailers and corrals. NRHC Education staff will host a story time with “Cowboy Small” at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.
Friday, Oct. 20 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Windmills – SOLD OUT
Water is the most valuable resource on a ranch and is a tool used to provide drinking water for cattle. In this STEM–focused activity, you will explore the windmill exhibit at the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center and make your own windmill. Reserve Your Spot
Saturday, Oct. 21 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Picnic in the Park
Join us for a beef hot dog cookout on the NRHC patio and then explore the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center. The first 200 visitors will receive a hot dog plate, including a drink and chips.