The spirit of the Old West is alive and well in Pahrump, thanks to the tireless efforts of community members like Paula Elefante. This year, after a brief hiatus in 2023, the beloved Wild West Extravaganza is making its return, a testament to the dedication and love the town has for its rich traditions. Paula shared the heartfelt story behind the event’s revival and the exciting activities planned for this year’s gathering.
The history of the Wild West Extravaganza stretches back to 2003 or 2004 when Bob Baker first brought the idea to life. In its earliest days, the event was a simple hoedown held in the parking lot of the Nugget casino, complete with square dancers and a lively community atmosphere. As the years passed, the event expanded significantly, eventually moving to the dirt lot beside Saddle West. There, it truly captured the spirit of the Old West, featuring a Pony Express ride, live cannons, and elaborate facades that transported visitors back in time. Sadly, with the passing of Bob Baker in 2011, stewardship of the Extravaganza fell to Sharon Wehrly, who ensured its continued success until her passing.
When last year’s Wild West Extravaganza was canceled, it left a noticeable void in the community. Determined not to let the tradition slip away, Paula, along with former committee member Jim Hannah, sprang into action just two months ago. In a whirlwind eight weeks, they pieced together a reimagined version of the event, dedicating it in memory of Sharon Wehrly. Paula acknowledged that this year’s event will be a little different without the traditional building facades, but she emphasized that the heart of the celebration remains the same — focused especially on bringing joy to local children.
Children will be at the center of the festivities, with a range of nostalgic games such as sack races, three-legged races, horse races, and even the classic wheelbarrow race, where one child walks on their hands while another holds their legs. Paula lit up as she described the fun and laughter these games are sure to bring, recalling the simple joys of childhood play.
Vendors will also be on site, offering food and crafts, with the Pahrump Valley Rotary Club setting up a bar to serve cocktails and beer alongside the event’s Mexican food vendor. Although there will be fewer vendor booths compared to past years, Paula was excited to highlight some unique demonstrations that harken back to the skills of yesteryear. A blacksmith and tinsmith will be showcasing their traditional crafts, and the Shadow Mountain Quilters have enthusiastically agreed to set up a table to discuss 1800s-era needlework. Additionally, a spinner from Amargosa will be demonstrating how wool is turned into yarn using a spinning wheel, offering a glimpse into another important frontier-era lifestyle.
Despite a few last-minute cancellations that left some bare spots, Paula remains upbeat. “It’s okay,” she said with a smile, emphasizing the event’s spirit of perseverance and community.
One of the particularly exciting features this year will be tethered hot air balloon rides with Doug, the balloon guy. For $20 per person, visitors can experience a brief but thrilling view from above, weather permitting. Doug will be offering rides starting at 6:30 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday morning, taking advantage of the calmer winds during those early hours.
Adding to the authentic Western atmosphere will be hayrides and the return of the mechanical bull, courtesy of the Pahrump Disability Outreach Program (PDOP). Paula proudly noted that many community organizations have come together to help make the Wild West Extravaganza a reality this year, all working in the spirit of generosity and local pride.
Live entertainment will round out the event, with musicians generously donating their time to perform. While there is no budget to pay performers this year, Paula expressed her gratitude for their willingness to keep the tradition alive. Vendor booth fees will help cover essential costs like insurance and park rental, ensuring the event remains financially sustainable.
The Wild West Extravaganza will take place over the first weekend of May. Vendors will open at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, with the day’s activities winding down by 8:00 p.m. Sunday will follow a similar schedule, beginning again at 9:00 a.m. and concluding around 4:00 p.m. Both mornings will kick off early with a pancake breakfast served at the park — Saturday’s breakfast hosted by the Kiwanis Club, and Sunday’s by a local church group. At 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, attendees can also enjoy a Cowboy Church service, adding a spiritual element to the weekend’s festivities. Somewhere in the mix, visitors can expect the lighthearted fun of a “shotgun wedding,” one of the event’s traditional highlights.
Fundraising efforts will continue throughout the weekend as well, with a raffle for a Winchester rifle taking place. Raffle tickets are available for purchase from Paula, Reva Braun, and at the Armory Gun Store located on Hwy 160, where the Pistachio Store once stood.
Paula also revealed plans already in the works for a special dinner fundraiser this fall, before the town’s Fall Festival. Although she kept the details under wraps, she promised it would be a very themed, memorable experience, sharing that she had spent sleepless nights recently brainstorming all the creative elements to make it a success. Confident in her network of helpers, Paula is excited to put the dinner together with a team of talented volunteers.
For next year’s Wild West Extravaganza, Paula anticipates a bigger, fuller event. Applications for vendor booths will be available starting in January 2026, after the holiday season. She explained that she takes December off following the busy fall event season, but by early January, planning will be back in full swing. Anyone interested in participating can contact her at pahrumpwildwest@myyahoo.com.
Adding to the support for the Wild West Extravaganza is another community event — the Taco Fest organized by Deanna O’Donnell, set for June 21st at the Calvada Eye. Profits from the Taco Fest will benefit the Wild West Extravaganza. Paula proudly recalled that Deanna’s first Taco Fest was held in 2018 during a previous Wild West event, raising around $9,000 for the local 4-H program.
As the town eagerly awaits this year’s Wild West Extravaganza, it’s clear that the spirit of the event — much like the Old West itself — is built on resilience, camaraderie, and a whole lot of heart. Thanks to Jim Hannah, Paula, Rotary, Kiwanis, PDOP and the hardworking volunteers, the Wild West Extravaganza remains a cherished tradition, a celebration of community history, and a joyful promise for future generations to come.
