Alpine
The Museum of the Big Bend is preparing to celebrate a major milestone this fall as it hosts the 40th Annual Trappings of Texas exhibit and sale from September 17 – 19, 2026.
Recognized as the longest-running event of its kind in the United States, Trappings of Texas celebrates the rich culture and craftsmanship of the American West, featuring works from premier Western artists and custom gear makers. The exhibit itself will remain on display at the museum through October 31, 2026.
This year’s milestone event honors Wilson Capron as the 2026 Trappings of Texas Premier Artist. Opening weekend festivities will feature a packed lineup, including a preview party, an opening reception and silent auction, live artist demonstrations and a high-energy ranch party to close out the weekend.
Opening weekend schedule of events
Thursday, September 17
The weekend kicks off with the Preview Party & Silent Auction from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Museum of the Big Bend. Attendees can register to become buyers, place early bids on featured pieces, and mingle with artists and gear makers. Sky Island Culinary will provide charcuterie and hors d’oeuvres alongside complimentary beer, wine, and a cash bar. Admission is $50 for museum members and $75 for non-members.
Friday, September 18
Free public artist demonstrations will take place on the museum patio from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering visitors a chance to observe craftsmen at work.
Later that evening, the museum will host the Opening Reception & Silent Auction from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Underwritten by Nathali and Johnny Weisman, the evening features live music, art bidding, and a plated dinner prepared by Sky Island Culinary featuring beef tenderloin with hollandaise diablo, chorizo-stuffed chicken breast, corn pudding pie, and grilled asparagus. Admission is $75 for members and $100 for non-members.
Saturday, September 19
Saturday begins at 9 a.m. with a free Ranch Hand Breakfast on the Sul Ross State University lawn, featuring breakfast burritos and cowboy coffee. While admission is free, reservations are requested via email at Kristi.Taylor@sulross.edu.
Daytime events continue on the museum patio from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with additional artist demonstrations and a live “Portrait Face-Off.” Modeled after the Portrait Society of America’s national conference event; the Face-Off allows the public to watch artists paint live models in real-time.
The weekend concludes Saturday night with the Ranch Roundup Party & Live Auction from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Wood Ranch, underwritten by Jenny and Will Wood. Guests can bid on custom gear, Western artwork, and exclusive experiences during a live auction led by auctioneer Logan West. The evening includes live honky-tonk music by Justin Trevino, an open bar, and a dinner buffet featuring bavette steak, seafood enchiladas, and cajeta banana pudding. Tickets are $150 for members, $175 for non-members and $75 for designated drivers.
Ticket information
Organizers urge attendees to purchase tickets early before events sell out. A Premium Package covering admission to the Thursday Preview Party, Friday Opening Reception, and all daytime events is available for $100 for members and $125 for non-members (Ranch Roundup Party sold separately).
For tickets, package details, and additional information, visit the Museum of the Big Bend website.
