The Trappings of Texas exhibit and sale at the Museum of the Big Bend in Alpine celebrates the work of Western artists and gear makers. It is the longest running event of its kind in the country.

Opening Weekend (September 18-20) events include a preview party, an opening reception and sale, artist demonstrations, and more. This year recognizes watercolorist Tim Oliver as the 2025 Trappings of Texas Premier Artist.

Exhibit continues through November 1, 2025.

Click here to view work by this year’s artists and gearmakers. More to be added.

Our 2025 Contest to win tickets and lodging for opening weekend closed on August 15th. The winner will be informed by email.

PREMIUM PACKAGE includes admission to the Thursday Night Preview Party, the Friday Night Opening Reception, and all daytime events. Does not include Saturday Ranch Roundup Party.

$100/person Click to purchase the 2025 Premium Package

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
Preview Party
Museum of the Big Bend
5:00–8:00 PM

Register to become a buyer, meet the artists and gearmakers, enjoy live music, cash bar and a charcuterie tablescape and hors d’oeuvres provided by Sky Island Culinary.

$50/person  Click to purchase admission to the Preview Party

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
Artist Demonstrations
Museum of the Big Bend, on the patio
11:00 AM–2:00 PM

Meet some of the Trappings artists and learn about their craft.

Opening Reception and Sale
Museum of the Big Bend
5:00–8:00 PM

Come help us celebrate the craftsmanship, culture, and history of West Texas! Register to become a buyer and place your ballots for a chance to purchase your favorite pieces. Meet the artists and gearmakers, catch up wit friends and celebrate with live music by Neil Trammell.

Enjoy a cash bar with complimentary beer and wine as well as Sky Island Culinary’s smoked prime rib, sugarcane shrimp scampi skewers, unique appetizers, sides, and artisan cupcake tower.

$75/person  Click to purchase admission to the Opening Reception & Sale

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
In the morning, you will be contacted by museum staff to inform you if you are one of the lucky buyers of works from the show!

Ranch Hand Breakfast
Museum of the Big Bend, Cultural Events Center
Starts at 9:00 AM

Breakfast burritos and coffee. Free, reservations requested.

Click to reserve a spot at the Ranch Hand Breakfast

Live Auction led by Gary Dunshee and auctioneers Logan West and Keith Franklin
Museum of the Big Bend, Cultural Events Center
10:00 AM

Bid on one-of-a-kind gear and art created by our amazing Trappings artists.
Enjoy a mimosa/bloody mary bar and help support the arts in Alpine.

Artist Demonstrations and Presentations
Museum of the Big Bend, on the patio
11:00 AM–2:00 PM

Revisit the exhibit and observe the artists at work.

Trappings of Texas Ranch Roundup Party
Hotel Limpia, Fort Davis
5:30–9:00 PM

Join us as we wrap up the 39th annual Trappings of Texas Opening Weekend! Dance under the West Texas stars to the music of Craig Carter and enjoy a meal and open bar with family and friends.

MENU
Stationed appetizers: mini beef wellington and Texas caviar crostini
Buffet Dinner: green chicken enchiladas, brisket, harvest fall salad, elote, cilantro lime rice, au gratin potatoes, southern style green beans, new york cheesecake with strawberry glaze, and triple chocolate cake. Menu subject to change

A silent auction will be held with unique items to help support the mission of the Museum of the Big Bend.

$150/person  Click to purchase admission to the Ranch Roundup Party