Video Story
Watch Video2009 "Wild Wild West Fest" to be held in Pueblo
Story By: Ryan Wilson
Source: KOAA
The "Wild Wild West Fest" is going to be a five day event probably in May of next year. Organizers are expecting to bring in tens of thousands of people, and millions of dollars. And it's all about getting back to western roots.
Bull riding is a struggle between man and beast, a fine line between safety and catastrophe. And it's that excitement, that's making bull riding one of the fastest growing sports. That's why they're trying it to bring to Pueblo.
"We talk about how tomorrow's going to come and how great it's going to be. but let me tell you tomorrow has arrived," one speaker said.
But for the night, the Convention Center went back in time, to become a cowboy and cowgirl corral, as plans for the "Wild Wild West Fest" were made.
"Collared shirts required, spurs are optional," a man in a coonskin hat said.
A golf tournament, a parade, a dance, just some of the 25 events planned. And the people here have different reasons to be excited.
"We'll be able to look at our history, Look at all the people that are here now, bring the cowboys back to Pueblo, that's an exciting event," Janie Anderson-Craven, the Union Ave Historical District Treasurer, said.
John Covington, the Superintendent of Pueblo City Schools, said, "Anytime we can expand on cultural activities and build upon the pride of Pueblo and certainly the pride and culture of the State of Colorado, the better it is for our young people."
Some of the biggest announcements are that the PBR will hold a bull-riding contest, and will induct cowboys into it's version of the hall of fame during that week.
"We've got to think outside the box on what we can do to make this city known around the city and around the world and bring tourism and economic benefit to the city," said Randy Bernard, the PBR CEO.
With the boots, the hats, the tassels, it was a night of make believe. But the people here hope the possibility of bringing in tens of thousands of tourists, and 5 to ten million dollars in the first year, will soon become a reality.
And they think the chance of failure is worth having a shot at glory.
PBR is also making $50-thousand available to non-profits who take part in the fest. The Chamber of Commerce is trying to make this part of a tourism destination package, which includes the state fair and the "Chile and Frijole Festival."
