Stampeding on a Western Festival

Colorado

The Greeley Independence Stampede, June 24 to July 5, began almost 100 years ago as a celebration to honor potato farmers. It has grown to 12 days packed with western fun: a rodeo, Fourth of July parade and fireworks, steam train rides, country dances, carnival, demolition derby, flapjack breakfasts and barbecues. All events take place at Island Grove Regional Park. Greeley is 60 miles north of Denver. For more information, contact the Greeley Independence Stampede, 600 N. 14th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631; telephone (800) 982-2855.

Massachusetts

The Boston Harborfest, June 30 to July 5, celebrates the glory days of the harbor in 1775. More than 160 events are planned, including Revolutionary-era reenactments and visits from U.S. and foreign naval ships. The July 2 fireworks display will be designed by the famous Grucci family. Top Boston restaurants compete at the Chowderfest, when more than 2,000 gallons of soup are consumed. For more information, contact Boston Harborfest, 45 School St., Boston, MA 02134; tel. (617) 227-1528.

Nevada

The Reno Rodeo, now in its 79th year, wasn’t quite enough for many western fans. Watching the best bronco riding made them want to get in the saddle themselves. So this year, just before the rodeo, wannabe cowhands can join the Reno Rodeo Cattle Drive. From June 15 to 19, they will transport 360 head of cattle across 68 miles of northern Nevada desert. Unlike the real cattle drives where the cowpokes get paid, it’s the other way around here. For more information, contact the Reno Rodeo, P.O. Box 12335, Reno, NV 89510; tel. (702) 329-3877.

Montana

Custer’s Last Stand, one of the most controversial battles in American history, will be reenacted during four performances, June 26 to 28, on a site six miles from Hardin and near the Little Big Horn Battlefield National Monument. The script is based on Crow tribal elder Joseph Medicine Crow’s translation of oral and written Native American histories. More than 200 actors participate, including descendants of the troops, Indian warriors and scouts involved in the 1876 battle. Hardin celebrates Little Big Horn Days at the same time with a 19th century ball, parades, living history encampment and vendors. For information and tickets, contact the Hardin Area Chamber of Commerce, 21 E. 4th St., Hardin, MT 59034; tel. (406) 665-1672.

New York

The All-Star Jockeys and the Broadway Show All-Stars play one another in a spirited game of softball, at 2 p.m. June 1 at Heckscher Field in Central Park. Jockeys expected to suit up include Robbie Davis, Joe Bravo and Eddie Maple. The game is part of the monthlong Belmont Stakes Festival and many of the jockeys on the field will be riding in the June 6 race. Admission is free, and early arrival is suggested. For more information, contact the Belmont Stakes Festival, New York State Racing Assn., P.O. Box 90, Jamaica, NY 11417; tel. (718) 641-4700.

Wisconsin

Harley-Davidson plans three events to celebrate its 95th year; ride, rally and reunion. More than 40,000 riders are expected on the weeklong cross-country treks that will converge on Milwaukee for the H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) Rally, June 10 to 12. Rally highlights include rock concerts, a military and western parade, and air show. At the June 13 reunion, Jay Leno (a major Harley fan) will lead a parade of 25,000 motorcycles through downtown Milwaukee, followed by displays of new and vintage motorcycles, demonstrations, games and auctions. For more information, contact Harley-Davidson, P.O. Box 653, Milwaukee, WI 53201-0653; tel. (800) 843-9584.

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