Get ready to chow down and cowboy up!

Picture this…you are relaxing in the shade in a lovely picnic grove as the branches of a majestic oak tree sway in the gentle breeze. On that breeze, you catch a whiff of the sweet, tangy, smoky deliciousness wafting through the air from grills cooking up barbecue perfection.

This taste bud-tingling daydream will be your reality at this year’s Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival at William S. Hart Park on Saturday and Sunday, April 13 and 14.

The much-anticipated Cowboy Festival is back for its 26th year and will offer all of your favorite activities including toe-tapping musical performances, historical experiences and chances to try your hand at everything from mechanical bull riding to hatchet throwing.

This year we are kicking it up a notch and offering some of the best cowboy grub you’ve ever sunk your teeth into.

Sunday, April 14, from 1 to 4 p.m., will be spicy as the all-new Cowboy Cook-off brings chili chefs to the table facing off with their best recipes. Know that the chili you are tasting is also raising money for a good cause. All proceeds from Sunday’s event go to our local homeless services provider – Bridge to Home.

I would be remiss to talk Cowboy Festival grub without mentioning the always popular, authentic Cowboy Cobbler. Baked up piping hot by our local Rotarians, this is a treat you won’t want to miss.

There is so much to enjoy and eat at this year’s Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival. Admission is FREE and there is fun for the whole family.

For more information please visit CowboyFestival.org. I’ll see you at William S. Hart Park.