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Death Valley '49ers Encampment And Western Music Festival

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Published Date

October 31, 2018

Western music, history, and horses will be on display during the 69th annual Death Valley '49ers Encampment and Western Music Festival/NPS

The Death Valley ‘49ers Encampment and Western Music Festival will be held November 4-11 at Furnace Creek in Death Valley National Park. This is the 69th year of this annual celebration, inspired by pioneers who made dangerous journeys in covered wagons to settle the West. 

This family-friendly event is known for Western music that evokes the era of wagon trains and cattle drives. This year's master of ceremonies will be Dave Stamey, who has been voted Entertainer of the Year, Male Performer of the Year, and Songwriter of the Year by the Western Music Association, as well as Male Vocalist of the Year by the Academy of Western Artists.

Returning by popular demand is the Old West Trio, who balance silver-screen harmonies and newly minted cowboy classics with a dose of humor. The trio earned the Will Rogers Award in 2011 from the Academy of Western Artists for Best Western Music Group of the Year. Members are Steve Ide (rhythm guitar), Leslie Ide (upright bass), and Steve Johnson (lead guitar).

Talks and historic programs will be presented on a variety of subjects related to Death Valley. A Timbisha Shoshone tribal representative will provide an update. Mike Reynolds, superintendent of Death Valley National Park, will discuss current events, milestones, and issues.

Visitors will have an opportunity to do some early Christmas shopping at the Invitational Western Art Show and crafts vendor area.

The popular Live Oak Belgian team of draft horses will return and offer free scenic rides and horse hitching demonstrations. Blacksmithing and gold panning activities are also planned, along with yodeling lessons.

This year’s Death Valley ‘49ers Encampment is sponsored by Inyo County, the Automobile Club of Southern California, and Sentinel Air Medical Alliance. The Oasis at Death Valley and the National Park Service provide the event locations.

Many of the events are free and open to the public. Some events require membership in the Death Valley ‘49ers or an additional fee to cover costs. The public can join onsite for $35/person or $60/family, including children under 18. Further information, including a complete program of activities, is available at www.deathvalley49ers.org/encampment.

Camping and lodging is available close to the event. NPS-operated campsites in Furnace Creek, Texas Springs, and Sunset Campgrounds cost $14-$36 per night. Holders of the federal Access Pass or Senior Pass receive a discount. Nearby lodging is available at The Oasis at Death Valley (www.oasisatdeathvalley.com) and Stovepipe Wells (www.deathvalleyhotels.com)

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