DAGGETT, CA — For six decades, Daggett Days has been the high desert’s favorite end-of-summer tradition. This year marks the 62nd annual celebration, and organizers with the Daggett Chamber of Commerce say it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest yet.
The two-day festival runs September 12–13, 2026 along 2nd Street in Daggett (33698 2nd St, Daggett, CA 92327) . Admission is free and open to the public.
“We can’t wait to see you all there,” said Dawn Regina, who is coordinating the event alongside the Chamber. “This is going to be one of those events you don’t want to miss.”
Old West Heritage Meets Family Fun
True to its roots, Daggett Days celebrates the town’s rich Western history. Attendees can step back in time with appearances by Doc’s Calico Marshalls and the Calico Mountain Gunfighters, who will bring the Old West to life with demonstrations and reenactments.
History buffs won’t want to miss the original 20 Mule Team wagon — built right in Daggett — on display, along with a Hit & Miss Engine exhibit, a blacksmith demonstration, and the Train Museum. Guided historical tours and museum visits will also be offered throughout the weekend.
Activities for All Ages
The event is packed with hands-on fun for kids and adults alike:
- Gold panning with Dano’s Gold Panning
- Axe throwing
- 25-foot climbing wall
- Inflatable games and giant yard games
- Face and body painting by Skintastic Art
- Caricatures by Lolo
- Children’s craft table and Children’s Corner
- Paper airplane throw
- Interactive games including baseball, basketball, football, and a Drop Release reflex game
- “Saving Slow Poke” — a crowd-favorite activity
Contests: Beard, Mustache, and Watermelon Seeds
Two beloved competitions return this year:
Beard & Mustache Contest – Start growing now. Contestants will be judged by parade officials immediately following the noon parade on Sunday, September 13. Free to enter, with prizes awarded. Early registration is encouraged — email dawn_kemp22@yahoo.com to sign up.
Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest – Taking place Sunday at the Daggett Chamber of Commerce booth. Contestants get a free slice of watermelon and a chance to see who can spit a seed the farthest. Prizes will be awarded. Even if you don’t enter, come cheer on the competitors.
Parade and Live Entertainment
The festival kicks into high gear with a parade starting at noon on Sunday, winding through historic 2nd Street. Parade judges will also oversee the beard and mustache competition.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy live demonstrations, photo ops, and museum & historical tours that showcase Daggett’s unique place in California history.
Vendors and Exhibitors
Daggett Days draws vendors from across the region. This year’s lineup includes:
Craft & Goods Vendors:
Freestyle Apparel & Gifts, Boozers Kraft Works, Drag It To Daggett, John Wease Funny Farm, Bead Design by K, WildFlour Sourdough, Dumpster Dog Designs, Reni Rose, Dry Creek Crafts, Robyn McMullin, Pitts Jewelry, Graceful Glow, Pink Zebra, Bella Candles, Inspired Creations by Jeff, Little One Crochet, Serendipity 6, and more.
Food Vendors:
Val’s Sweets & Treats, Roark’s Boosted Cones, Chicas Grill, Maria’s Cuisine, Lemonade 2 Die 4, and a Popcorn Stand.
Community & Service Organizations:
Daggett Fire Department, CHP, Mojave Valley Outreach, Silver Valley Air Squadron, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Mental Health Awareness, Golden State Water, Home Depot, and the AEC.
Special Attractions:
Smokes’ Equine Oasis (burro on site), Nicholas Matthew Webster train display, Starlight Stun Guns, B&A Vinyl Works, Beauty by S Official, and the Chuck Wagon.
A Community Tradition Since 1964
Now in its 62nd year, Daggett Days has become a cornerstone event for the Mojave Desert region. The festival draws visitors from Barstow, Newberry Springs, Silver Valley, and beyond — all coming together to celebrate small-town community spirit.
“We have so much in the works,” Regina said. “This event is going to be so much fun.”
If You Go
What: 62nd Annual Daggett Days
When: September 12–13, 2026
Where: 2nd Street, Daggett, CA 92327 (33698 2nd St)
Cost: Free admission
Parade: Sunday, noon
Information: Contact dawn_kemp22@yahoo.com