For the third straight summer, Buffalo, Wyoming magically transformed (with the help of one hard-working Chamber of Commerce and an incredible team of volunteers) into Durant, the Absaroka County seat, and the characters of Craig Johnson’s fictional crime series came to life as thousands of fans converged on the town of about 4,600. This is, of course, the annual Longmire Days, which occurred July 18-20, 2014.
SEE ALSO: Of course, we're covering Season 4 of Longmire! Let's talk about the premiere “Down By the River”!
And for the second year, many of the stars of the A&E television show based on Johnson’s series also attended and took part in the festivities. That included: Robert Taylor (Walt Longmire), Katee Sackhoff (Vic Moretti), Adam Bartley (The Ferg), Cassidy Freeman (Cady Longmire), Zahn McClarnon (Mathias), and Louanne Stephens (Ruby).
THE ACTORS
Friday, July 18th kicked off with an autograph session featuring Craig and all the actors, except Cassidy Freeman. (Editor’s Note: These are the very signatories to the poster in the comments sweepstakes below!) Fans from far and wide began lining up outside the old Clear Creek Elementary School before 7 a.m., when Craig Johnson pulled into the lot in the replica sheriff’s Bronco. The signing wouldn’t start until 9 a.m., but in the meantime, souvenirs were sold, people took pictures with the Bronco and chatted with fellow fans, and volunteers mingled throughout the crowd letting everyone know what to expect. There was an excitement in the early morning Durant air.
When the doors did open, the line moved slowly but consistently, and the exceptional organization made the wait fun. Volunteers and police officers struck up conversations as attendees snaked through a maze of crime scene tape. One volunteer from Colorado, returning for her second year, was amazed at the distances so many people traveled. She said, “Last year it was mainly people from the Wyoming I-25 Corridor.” This year, people traveled from states as far away as Florida, Ohio, and Tennessee, just to attend Longmire Days.
In an effort to keep the lines moving, fans were limited to two items they could have signed and pictures with the actors were not allowed at this event. While the objective was to keep things moving, Johnson and the actors were still able to chat briefly, shake hands, and share smiles while signing everything from posters to the shirts on people’s backs. The enthusiasm from both sides of the table was contagious. Eventually, the line had to be cut off, but another autograph session was held Saturday morning, and there were many other opportunities throughout the weekend for fans to snag autographs and pictures.
The actors participated in many of the weekend’s events and interacted excitedly with folks who’d traveled from all over to see them. Zahn McClarnon and Adam Bartley showed their athletic prowess on the softball field in the Cowboys vs. the Indians game, and Louanne Stephens produced a children’s show in Crazy Woman Square. That performance featured Buffalo-area kids acting out the pre-election party scene from the TV show. The weekend wrapped up with an incredible concert from Adam Bartley and his jazz band. Special kudos should be given to Robert Taylor as well, who made a valiant effort to attend every event.
THE INDIANS
As the doors were closing on the signing session at Clear Creek Elementary School Friday morning, a PowWow was kicking off in Crazy Woman Square. After all, a Longmire celebration simply wouldn’t be complete without the Indians.
The representatives from the Cheyenne tribe had to make a bit of a trip into Buffalo, because their reservation is further away than Johnson portrays in the books. But this didn’t deter them. Dressed in handmade, beautifully-colorful regalia, signifying tribal and familial connections and history, they danced and sang. The significance behind dances and songs was shared with the audience, and at times the audience was encouraged to join in.
There was some celebrity in this event as well. One of the dancers had not only earned the coveted Miss Cheyenne title, seen in a Season 3 episode of the same name, but she had also appeared in an episode from the show’s first season.
These devoted dancers and musicians showed off their talents and shared their tribal history during each day of the weekend festivities.
THE TOWN
While the estimated attendance of 10,000 might have been a bit of a stretch for this year’s event, the fans were definitely in the thousands, and that didn’t seem to faze the small town of Buffalo at all.
The community as a whole embraced the celebration, posting signs in their windows, adding chalk drawings to the sidewalks, selling souvenirs, and simply welcoming all the strangers who invaded their quiet little part of the country.
To fight the heat—temps were around 90 all weekend—visitors also indulged in frozen yogurt from The Cold Dish. They could even pick up a copy of the Durant Courant to read with their morning coffee.
The Buffalo Kiwanis hosted a pancake breakfast Saturday morning, and later that day, the Model A & Pioneer Car Club of Sheridan and Johnson Counties sponsored a car show. The Clear Creek Brewing Company featured an Absaroka Ale all weekend, and other establishments put Longmire-related specials on their menus as well. In addition to the regular restaurants, food trucks were set up in Crazy Woman Square throughout the weekend, giving visitors a chance to try ribs, snow cones, Wyoming Whiskey, and gourmet hot dogs and brats (featuring elk and buffalo meat).
The Buffalo Theater took a hiatus from their regular shows to host viewings of Longmire on their big screens all day Friday and Saturday. Then, they hosted the Q&A session on Sunday. The HF Bar Guest Ranch hosted a skeet shoot, while the Paradise Guest Ranch took the reins of the Horseback Ride. The Buffalo Golf Club held a golf outing, and the Century Club was the starting point for the Acting Outlaws Poker Run. Of course, the Busy Bee was abuzz from open to close as fans experienced the diner where Walt gets his “usual.”
There was a bit of something for everyone, and it seemed like every business in Buffalo helped sponsor the weekend. Some events required registration and additional fees, but a visitor still had plenty to do without attending any extra events.
THE MAN
Of course, none of this would exist at all without the man who started it. Craig Johnson was a constant throughout the weekend. You could see him in the audience of the children’s show. He provided color commentary for the softball game, participated in the Q&A session, and arrived early for each autograph session to chat with the fans waiting patiently.
When there wasn’t a scheduled signing or event, you could likely find him signing and talking in the Longmire headquarters. The Johnson County Library also stopped regular operation for most of Saturday to accommodate a “So You Want to Write a Mystery” discussion and autograph session with him and Robert Taylor.
Longmire Days garnered a great deal of attention because of the celebrities in attendance, but Buffalo, Wyoming, hasn’t forgotten who gave them their alias and their beloved fictional sheriff. As Adam Bartley wrapped up the weekend with his jazz concert, he reminded the audience of exactly that, and Johnson was given a standing ovation.
What a wonderful salute to Walt Longmire and his crew; what a wonderful tribute to an amazing writer.
If you have the chance to attend a future Longmire Days, it’s well worth the trip. If not, don’t worry. Grab a copy of a Walt Longmire novel and you’ll be transported immediately.
All images used with permission of Jen Forbus.
The sweepstakes has ended.
To enter to win a bundle of cool swag direct from Wyoming's Longmire Days (including a Busy Bee mug, event poster signed by cast members, a Longmire growler cup, souvenir Durant Courier, and postcard signed by Craig Johnson), simply make sure you're a registered member of the site and simply leave a comment below.
TIP: Since only comments from registered users will be tabulated, if your user name appears in red above your comment—STOP—go log in, then try commenting again. If your user name appears in black above your comment, You’re In!
Longmire Days Comment Sweepstakes: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A purchase does not improve your chances of winning. Sweepstakes open to legal residents of 50 United States, D.C., and Canada (excluding Quebec), who are 18 years or older as of the date of entry. To enter, complete the “Post a Comment” entry at https://www.criminalelement.com/blogs/2014/07/longmire-days-in-pictures-buffalo-durant-wyoming-busy-bee-craig-johnson-absaroka-tv-cast-jen-forbus beginning at 04:45 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) July 29, 2014. Sweepstakes ends 04:44 p.m. ET August 5, 2014. Void outside the United States and Canada and where prohibited by law. Please see full details and official rules here. Sponsor: Macmillan, 175 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010.
Jen Forbus is a book-reading, Arnold Palmer-drinking, animal-adoring, gadget-loving optimist. She not only converses with crime fans on Twitter as @crimehq, she also freelances in all areas of books and publishing, and runs the crime fiction site Jen's Book Thoughts.
That just looks like a whole lot of fun. Hope to make the trek one of these years myself. Thanks for the great write-up, Jen!
Looks great
Wyoming is one of the friendliest states there is; I’d love to make it up there for this festival one year.
All of his books, that I’ve read, have been really good! Longmire is a treat to read and watch! Thanks for information!
Wish I had been there.
Wyoming, heck yes! Longmire, heck yes! Have to start planning for next year!
I love cool swag! Yes!
[u][b]Who doesn’t love a great western?[/b][/u]
Really wish I’d been there, I’d love to go to Wyoming one day! This is the next best thing though
Wonderful giveaway. Love Wyoming and Longmire.
Boy…this sure sounds like a cool event. I didn’t know this even took place. I’m going to have to visit Wyoming next summer. Thanks for the opportunity to win some fun swag!
Love watching Longmire with Wyoming back drop.
Looks like it was a great time.
Wow, meeting so many of the actors as well as Craig Johnson would be a blast!
Was working on a trip to the Cascades from Flordia to visit my brother next summer. Now I know my route… Absolutely the best thinking person’s tv show out theses days!!!!
Still waiting for that great western historical series to be written highlighting a Wild West lawman in search of a murdeour villian tracked to a large East Coast city- Sort of an 1870’s Coogan’s Bluff!
I think what is so very cool about the LONGMIRE DAYS event is that so many people embrace it and there is so much to see and do! From the cast to the Indian PowWow, everybody has so much respect for Craig Johnson, as well as for the culture and people of Wyoming. I can’t remember the last time I actually heard of a TV show that really embraced it’s fans and citizens in such a great way. No wonder why people in the thousands flock to see such an event and become one with all that is wonderful about Wyoming! Hoping to go next year for this very cool event! Simply adore this show and everyone associated with it! :o)
Wow! This was so well written, and illustrated, I got a good idea of what this was like. It would be so exciting to attend this event! Thanks, Jen for the great piece.
What a great event. My Hubby loves this series and I keep telling him he needs to read the books, too!
What a great article! It must have wonderful to be able to attend. Thanks for all the great pictures!
Great article, great TV series!
Thanks —
I’ve been a fan of Craig Johnson’s for a long time now (Walt’s too), and I’m glad they’re BOTH finally getting some serious attention. I can’t believe Craig would change just ’cause of a little fame (even a little money, hopefully), but I just hope it doesn’t go to Walt’s head.
I am so envious of everyone who got to attend this soiree. I am eager for the season finale so I can get some answers, but not happy that the season will be over.
I love the show and the books. This event looks so wonderful.
I like the tv series, so it would be nice if I were to win this contest.
Two of my coworkers tell me I must start watching the series. This makes their encouragement even more convincing, so I’ll have to put it on my watch list and if I win the goodies, I’ll surprise my coworkers with some presents….
What a great contest.. My husband and I stop everything Monday night at 7PM to watch the show.
First I loved the books, now I love both the book and TV series. As a longtime fan, it would be lovely to win some goodies – but regardless, thanks for the opportunity.
Great books. Great show. Seems like a fun weekend.
A great series. best ever.
This looks like an awesome event. It is wondeful when a whole town can come together to host this. This is a well written article.
This sounds like a wonderful event. Since hubby and I watch the show together, it would be a fun trip even though a very long one from Ontario, Canada.
Wish I could have been. I’ve to Wyoming and really want to back.
stumbled into the TV show this year and am now a fan making my way thru the books. Lovely way to spend the summer
That looks like so much fun! I hope I get to go one day!
Hey everybody! What great comments. And for everyone who said they need to try to make it, I say….JUST DO IT! This was my first trip to Wyoming and I’m glad I found a reason to visit. Someone mentioned how friendly Wyoming folks are and gosh, that was the truth.
Someone else mentioned how rare it is for actors to embrace their fans in this way and I couldn’t agree more. The relationship that has obviously developed between Craig and the cast is really something. They have such a great respect for him. And the overwhelming feeling you got from the cast members was that they were humbled and awed that so many came to share this weekend with them.
It’s all around good people and gosh it was just a blast. So if you can get out there, go. But do plan in advance! The hotels and motels all over town were completely booked!
Thanks for reading everyone!
What a great post! Some friends and I are planning to try and head out there next summer. Thanks so much for bringing back something for the rest of us!
Another item just got added to my Bucket List — love Wyoming already, but Longmire Days sounds like a blast!
Love Longmire and can’t get enough of it. Henry & Ferg are the bombs!!
Hmmm….I think I would need someone to hold my place in line while I scouted the ale and brats. By the end of the day I’m sure I would have added a joyful noise to the singing and dancing….how about it Craig? Robert? Join me? Now THAT would be a “goody”!
You all have started a wonderful tradition…just like the great books…keep up the good work!
Nice recap of the event. May not be as nice as being there, but the pictures were still a good second place.
We love the Longmire books and TV show, and we’ve turned a lot of friends onto them, too!
Love Longmire series. The actors really bring the characters to life. Enjoy reading about Longmire Days. Special kudos to actors who appeared!
What a great event. We’ve seen Craig Johnson here in Tucson the last two years at our Tucson Festival of Books. He’s an interesting speaker and generous with his handshakes and pictures.
The events above are very interesting and I’d like to attend in the future.
I love the Longmire books & the series. Thanks for the chance to win.
I enjoy Longmire and never miss it. I’ve now started reading the books. This article was very interesting.
Count me in. Gonna have to put this on my calendar for next year. Looks like loads of fun.
How can we find out when the next Longmire Days will be? We love this series and we record it, so we won’t miss an episode, and I wouldn’t be surprised if my husband wanted to make the trip. I really like being able to read the weekly recap, since it often picks up on things that I missed. This site might be called “Criminal Element” but it covers so much more than that. I recommend it to anyone who asks for mystery/thriller/detective/true crime book recommendations.
Wish I had known about this – sounds like it would have been a great vacation! Love the books & the tv series……
Wow, that’s amazing! What a cool event! I’m super jealous 🙂 I love the show and it’s fantastic actors. How fun for the author too, seeing his work reach so many new people and to get to do a fun event like this! I have to throw my name in the hat to win! Thanks!! 🙂
Sounds like fun
Count me in.
Looks like a fun time was had by all. I know that, whether it’s in print, on tv, or the wonderful talking books of the National Library Service for the Blind, Longmire and his stories definitely hold my attention.
Longmire IS HEAVEN on Earth!!!!! Next Years Vacation stop! Boyyyy Howwwwwwwwwwwwdeeeeeee!
Donbbfan!
Wow! Sounds like a good time. Wish I had known about it. Love the books – love the TV series.
I love the books by Craig Johnson. I love the series with Robert Taylor.
Longmire Days sounds like a great event. Wish I had been there.
This sounds like a hoot!! I want to put this on my calendar for next year.
Looks like a good time was had by all. Wish I had been there to enjoy it with them.
Love Longmire! This looks like such a fun event.
Wyo always looks great
I don’t know if I’ll ever get to Wyoming, but your article almost made me feel like I had been to the festivities, so I guess that’s close enough LOL Thanks for sharing this with us!
LONGMIRE IS THE ONLY TV SHOW I GIVE UP MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL FOR. EVEN MY MOTHER-IN-LAW (88 YEARS OF AGE) WATCHES RELIGIOUSLY; SHE CALLS TO REMIND US EVERY MONDAY NIGHT.
THANKS FOR A QUALITY TELEVISION EVENT EVERY WEEK.
What a great week! Thank you, Jen. You brought it all to life for those of us who weren’t there – but we were, sort of. 🙂
Great idea for those of us who cannot get to Longmire Days. Thanks.
Big fan! Sounds and looks like a great event!
Awesome week! Thank you!
I love this show and I plan to read the books also. Can’t wait ’til next season.
I love this series,and watch it and want more..hope it’ll keep going..also will get the books
Great series, both on tv and in the books. It’s heartening to see everyone taking the time to interact with the fans, as well as learning some of the Cheyenne culture. Wish I could’ve been there.
Thanks Criminal Element for the info on Longmire Days. Sounds like a great time!! 🙂
Walt is the man!!!
What fun!
Love Wyoming, love Longmire; would love to win!
Just started watching the show. Love it! Beautiful State.
Sounds interesting!
Love the show and wish I lived in a town like “Durant”!
Love the show—wish I could have been there for the celebration.
I hope Craig Johnson writes lots more books. He is the best living writer out there (in my opinion). The TV show is fine, but the books are WONDERFUL.
We love Longmire! This sounds like a terrific way to experience the only show on tv whose season is too short. 😉
I so want to get over there for a Longmire Days. Thank you for sharing your experiences of the celebration.
Longmire Days looks great!! Wish that I had been, but maybe next?
I’m adding this to my list of fun activities to do! I love the show and would like it to continue for many more years!
I would love to go next year! These are now some of my favorite books that I recommend to everyone who loves mysteries and good characters at my library!
Was Dog there? Vic is the STAR! And, I’ll have the usual.
Thank you, Craig Johnson–I’ve already said that more than once, and I expect to say it many more times.
What a fabulous event! When excellence is not only embraced, but exalted as well, don’t we all walk a little taller? If you’re like me, being touched by superb storytelling and awesome acting makes me want more of the same–more of the time. “LONGMIRE”, in its entirety, is something very special indeed.
Longmire Days are Golden Days : )
What fun! Long live Longmire!!
Wow what an event!!! Sure hope someday to attend!!! Have read the books & watch the show faithfully never missing an episode!!! Thanks for the opportunity to win & good luck to all!!!
I really need to start reading this series!
sounds like a good time was had by all.
Looks like a fun event!
Enjoy the TV series – Walt is the best!
What a fun prize package
I am so in LOVE with Walt Longmire!! I have read Craig’s books but once I saw Robert Taylor, I was a goner~SWOONING! Want this win with all my heart!!
I couldn’t wait for the new television season. I’m hoping to collect this entire series! I’m on my way!
My favorite show and a great series of books. Maybe next year I will point my Ford Ranger toward …….
Love the show, ready to start the books. The event sounds like a wonderful success, and plenty of fun!
I’ve been jonsing for more Longmire, so am re-listening to the books while waiting for the next season – the event looks like it was a blast!
My husband loves this show. I would like to win this for him.
Nice! \m/
Our daughter sent us this article, knowing how much my husband and I enjoy the tv series Longmire! We turn off the phone when watching every week! The story is powerful and the characters come to life with everyone of these great actors. Love, love, love it!
Why haven’t I heard of this before? I’ve got to win this contest for my favorite show.
Looks like alot of fun I am in Montana maybe next year I will catch it
I had already heard about Longmire Days from the author at a signing. I hope I can get there one of these days.
Thanks for the great giveaway!!
Love the Longmire series. Planning a trip to Wyoming next summer!
Your article, pictures – and blog – are the next best thing to being there! Thanks, Jen.
Great town, great event…thanks for the article, reading it was 2nd best to being there myself!
Read all the books twice. Absorb every episode. It’s the only TV show I watch. Wish I could have been there. Unfortunately, NC is pretty far from Wyoming.
When you read the books you realize that Craig and his alter-ego Walt are essentially good. He respects women and animals. He makes lifelong friendships. He writes hope into every book. This show with these very skillful actors gives us a dose of this hope every week. Thanks to all of the volunteers and to the town for making it possible to enjoy the setting.
This is a Pay It Foward moment. How wonderful.
Came from Columbia, MO and absolutely no regrets! My wife had heard about Longmire Days from another Facebook page. She hacked my account, “unliked” all my Longmire pages (so I wouldn’t get any updates) and surprised me with this getaway. I thought we were coming to chill in the Bighorns. I had no idea until we hit the downtown area and saw the banners. Best. Surprise. Ever.
(I told Craig Johnson this and he just laughed and looked at my wife and said, “You are either a genius,” then to me, “or you are really clueless.” The Mrs and I just looked at each other and shrugged. “That’s what I thought,” he said, and we all laughed. Great memory.)
Anyway, what an amazing time! It was great meeting Mr. Johnson and even the actors, but Buffalo just did it right. I’m with Jen on this one. For those of you who think you “should” try to make the next one, just do it! You will NOT be disappointed.
Looks like a great time was had by all! I never miss an episode of Longmire,and will sorely miss it when this season ends. Till next season,however,I’ll keep busy reading through the Longmire Series. Thank you Craig Johnson for your wonderful characters and stories,and to all the superb actors for bringing them to life.
What fun!! We were hoping to get there this year. Didn’t quite do it, maybe next year!! Definitely a bucket list item!
Longmire Days was a great weekend! We extended our stay for the concert in Crazy Woman Square by Adam Bartley and were so glad we decided to stay. The Longmire cast possess infinite patience and really did go the extra mile in making the fans happy. It’s a great event to attend.
My wife and I went to our first “Longmire Days” this year from Lafayette CO, and had a total blast. We were amazed at how approachable and friendly all the actors were, and how they seemed to be having as good a time as the crowd. It is so refreshing to see “celebrities” that are genuinely grateful to their fans, willing to give back, and not on the all-too-common ego trips you usually see. Kudos to the town of Buffal0 for putting on such a great weekend!
“Longmire Days” is on my to do list. Since I was raised in Wyoming and “Longmire” is set in Wyoming. “Longmire'” is a great credit to Wyoming and the Wyoming Spirit. Love that fact that Buffalo is involved so much.
What a great report on the Longmire Days Celebration. Thanks to the townspeople for hosting.
Wow what fun. It is like jumping into your favorite book and being part of the plot. What a great idea to do with so many different series!
Thanks for the recap, sounds like a good time was had by all.
Spent 5 days in the Buffalo area. Love the town and the Big Horn mountains. Got my picture taken with Adam Bartley. Plan to be back next year.
i’m not that familiar with Longmire – to go to Wyoming has been a place I’ve always wanted to visit. After readng about Longmire days I’m now interested in learing more about both
Sounds like a fascinating event to attend. Thanks for sharing.
OMG Love the Longmire books & TV series. Thanks so much for sharing this awsome event. Would love to be there next year.
We planned our vacation around Longmire days–hit Yellowstone at one end of WY and the Black Hills after Buffalo. This little town was jumping! Craig Johnson perched on the librarian’s desk and discussed his writing for at least 90 minutes. Even, Judy, (he termed her “The Angry Woman”) couldn’t keep him on schedule! His thought process inspires me to write down the story in my head.
Thank you for sharing your trip to this awesome event. The comments are also enjoyable. I’m hoping A&E renews the TV series, even though we’ll definitely have new books, too.
I was there for my second year, and it is great fun! The actors and Craig are just great, and I recommend it strongly!
Longtime fan of Craig Johnson’s books and I would love to get out out to Longmire Days next summer. I sure hope it’s not too hot! Really enjoyed the article. Who knew there was so much to do!
Thanks!
Second year I’ve attended Longmire Days. Enjoyed meeting the stars, and meeting other Longmire fans.
Have watched the series since it started, and have read all the books.
Waiting to hear if the show will be renewed for season 4.
Sorry! I didn’t get logged in the first time. Anyway–loved the article. Boy Howdy!
Planning on a trip to “Absaroka” next year for sure with my kids. I’m sure hoping we get a Season 4 of the show, but even so, Craig has many more books for us to love.
my husband and I watch the Longmire show I’d love to win the swag
What a great article! I’ve always wanted to attend, but this makes me want to attend Longmire Days even more!
My husband and I both enjoy your show, that is a rarity.
Nice article, great photos and a what a nice weekend it was. Kudos to to everyone who helped things run smoothly.
Love the books and the show. Would love to make it someday!
Buffalo WY ! What a great town full of very hospitable people! My family made the drive from Oxford, Mississippi to Buffalo for all 4 Longmire Days and I must say it was the very best vacation of my 55 years. I thought Southern Hospitality was invented down south BUT after spending time in Buffalo, I now truly believe Southern Hospitality began in Wyoming. Some of the nicest people on earth. As the others have said, the actors were fabulous, spending so much of their time with us fans. Craig Johnson is the type person that each and every state in the US would love to have for its ambasador! Won’t go on and on but with certainty, we will be back next year to visit our adopted State of Wyoming!! Thanks Buffalo!!!!
Would love to win!
Wish I had been there!
What a wonderful write up. I am looking forward to next years’s event.
Going to make my husband take me next year. I am DYING to see Wyoming. Thank you JenForbus for your article. Thank you Craig Johnson for being such a fantastic author! Can’t get enough Longmire!
I am so glad that I started watching Longmire when it first premiered. I LOVE the show and have since begun reading the books by Mr Johnson. I must say, I love the books, too! I would really enjoy attending the Longmire Days and hope I am able to. This looks like an extremely fun event for fans, locals, & cast. Thank you for this excellent write up.
I knew we should have retired in Wyoming! Love Longmire – print and television. Sounds like a good vacation event for next year.
Well, we missed (Darn!) Season One, but have been watching ever since. Going to have to see if there’s a DVD set out. This series has made me want to read the books. They sound like they may be worthy of a place alongside my Tony Hillerman series.
Thank you JenForbus for your article. My husband and I attended Longmire Days this year and really enjoyed it. The community, Craig Johnson and all the actors were so friendly and it was fun to be a part of it. Having met the actors gives you a whole new perspective when watching the show.
One slight hitch in our weekend: We called to inform the motel that we would be arriving late on Friday night. What a shock and surprise to find that they had closed the motel! We had [u]called[/u] the reservation line about 3 months in advance to be sure we had a room for the weekend! In visiting with a local at the Busy Bee on Sunday morning, we were informed that the motel had closed 2 or 3 years ago!!!
We have met Craig Johnson several times and enjoy the stories he tells. We felt it was awesome that he walked through the lines of people waiting for autographs and visited with them.
I grew up in northern Wyoming in the 50’s-60’s, mostly lived in Sheridan. I have read every one of Craig Johnson’s books, some of them twice. He takes me home again…I love Wyoming, and I love Walt Longmire!
I love this show, wished it lasted alot longer than it does! The books are great too!
Great article–I’ve loved Wyoming since first visiting Yellowstone as a kid, and absolutely love Craig Johnson’s writing and the series. This is a rare instance where I hardly ever mind where the visual representation varies from the books (although I miss Dog). I never want it to end!!!
I am so hooked on Longmire.
This is my favorite show on television. All of the characters are great. They prove the theory that you can’t keep a good man (or woman) down!
The scenery is awesome, the acting believable, and the stoy lines interesting. Hope it continues for a long time.
Okay, I’m going next year. I just finished Hell is Empty and I’m suffering Walt Longmire withdrawal. Good thing I have the next book already in my Kindle. I’m sure the best way to keep the withdrawal at bay is to plan to attend Longmire Days next year. It is on my calendar and I’m buying my cowboy hat. A big thanks to everyone who brings this remarkable world to life and to Craig Johnson for dreaming it all up in the first place.
From the first chapter of “The Cold Dish” I was hooked on Craig Johnson’s awesome writing and the characters he created. Both have only gotten better through the years and evolving into the series has been just wonderful. My daughter came from Montana and I came up from Cheyenne to meet for Longmire Days. It was well worth our saving money for a year to be at this event. Craig and his lovely wife Judy are such warm, wonderful and funny people to know. They have not been changed by fame & fortune and how awesome is that? Every winter (which can be long in Wyoming) I re-read each book in order to stay “connected” with his marvelous characters until spring brings new stories & shows. Thanks to everyone who makes Longmire Days possible!
I love this series, the TV program but especially the books. Wish I could have been at the celebration. Looks like it was a great time.
Love the books, Craig is a master on the page and in person. 1st Longmire Days this year, we will be back. Thanks Ferg and Vic for leading the bike run. Ferg, you can keep my marker…gotta get Walt to sign my hat next time.
Had a great time in Durant this year. Hope the show gets renewed and we will see everyone again next year.
Everything about the books and the show, makes you want to live in Durant. It reminds us of when we used to believe in more.
Nice story, had no idea this was a thing. Thanks!!
Not much into autographs, but this looks like a place to be. Got to get it on my calendar.
This looks like such a blast for fans! My 80-year-old dad recently discovered the Longmire books, and no lie, downloaded ALL of them on his iPad. I told him about the festival and sent your article to him and he loved it. Thanks for sharing and for the give away!
What a great story!
What a fun time! Good luck all for the Longmire sweepstakes — especially me!
About a month ago a friend was raving on Facebook about the Longmire tv series, so we watched the first one and then I thought, “This is based on a book, or series of books!” I downloaded the first one to my eReader, and then I downloaded all I could find as well as the short story collections.
The tv series is excellent, the actors have really captured the characters from the written page, but the books are even better. I realize that’s mainly because you can’t recreate some of the things from the books on the screen, but the bonus is that when I read the books I hear and see the actors doing the things described on the page, and when I watch the series I just know that Vic is swearing up a storm just out of our hearing. In the books she uses the “f” word very effectively to express a wide range of emotions, sort of the way some people use “dude”, but better.
Heh.
I hope to attend one year and make it part of a vacation to that part of the country. Love the show and it would be fun to see the town portrayed in the show/books.
Love Walt and Henry Standing Bear in particular, but all the other guys are great too.
Longmire Days was GREAT! Drove 24 hrs round trip and it was worth every minute of it! The cast were most gracious in singing autographs. There were 10 yr olds to 80 yr olds there. Of course my fave was The Ferg! Lots of free things to do: Pow-pow, softball game, street dance. Kids would love it to . Buffalo is a fun little western town with the beautiful Big Horn mountains surrounding it. Everyone is friendly and happy. I highly recommend Longmire Days to fans of the show!
My husband got me into watching the TV show and I love watching it. Haven’t read the books yet. We attended Longmire Days this year. It was a lot of fun!
I have loved Craig Johnson since A COLD DISH!!! Wished I lived closer! Love the books….love the series!!! Great article!
Wow! this looks excellent! the show, the books, the event! I’m excited to explore and get to know it all. Thanks!
This is a great article. Longmire is my favorite TV series…can’t believe we only have one more show left.
Dang it! I missed Longmire Days.
Blocking out vacation time for next year. And the year after and.. let’s hope the show is renewed for many years to come!
I would love to attend Longmire Days! It looks like a blast!
Thanks for the giveaway… great series of books & TV adaptation !
I love Longmire!! Would absolutely, positively love to win!!
Sorry we missed it. Maybe next year!
So glad I clicked on the link from Craig Johnson’s Facebook page to this piece on Longmire Days. The festivities sound like a blast and that the cast of Longmire (and the people in Buffalo) seem as welcoming as Johnson is at a reading. Can’t wait to visit Buffalo and Longmire country next year.
I love Longmire, I see why it’s so popular with regular people like us.
This looks like so much fun
Oh, I how I wish how could have been an attendee, at Longmire
Days… It won’t stop me from being a big fan of the show, though!
Thanks for sharing the pictures and discussion with us…
Cindi
jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com
Great article. Really wish I had been able to attend Longmire Days.
I wished I had been able to attend BEFORE I read this piece and now I really wish I had been able to go. Next year, a road trip to Wyoming may be in order.
Looks like a good time was had by all! Since I wasn’t there, I’d love to have a treat or two.
Love the Longmire book and TV series. Sounds like Longmire Days is worth checking out next year.
As a big fan of the series, I was excited to read about Longmire Days. Hopefully, I can attend a future event!
For cool!
Note to self: say “Boy Howdy” more often.
And make it to Buffalo at the earliest Longmirean opportunity.
I am over the moon for Craig Johnson and the success of the Longmire mystery series. The television show is good, and the cast is great, but I am partial to the books. Longmire Days has a lot going for it: meeting Craig, the cast of Longmire, baseball, jazz, a real Indian Pow Wow set in beautiful Wyoming. May its success be long.
Absolutely love Longmire! Excellent series.
love love love longmire -books and show. when will we know if the series has been renewed for a 4th season?!?!? I’ve had to limit myself to the books so they won’t run out too soon!!! can’tget enough!
I am a big fan of Craig Johnson’s books and Longmire. I was able to attend Longmire Days this year and really enjoyed it. It was great meeting the actors, getting their autographs and having Mr. Johnson sign my book. I took alot of pictures that day and I hope that I get to attend Longmire Days again next year.
This is one of my favorite shows. I watched it since it has been on air. I like Longmire but also like Vic. She is very strong and don’t take any stuff.
Moving to Buffalo in two months – can’t wait to come next year!
I love the show! This event sounds like fun!
One more time – moving to buffalo soon! Looking forward to this event next year.
I love the show! This event sounds like fun!
What a great time we had. Kudos to all involved. Wyoming hospitality is the best!
What a great way for a town to stimulate their economy. And to have fun!
love the show!!
great.
Love it!!!
looks like a great giveaway
I’m so disappointed i didn’t know about this event sooner! I will definetly be there next year if they hold the event again!! Yeah Longmire!
Great article by my favorite blogger, Jen Forbus. I started reading Craig Johnson’s series because of her recommendation. I love the books and really enjoy the TV show. Hope to make it to this event in the future.
Looks cool
This is very cool, I do wish I would have known about it earlier. I’ll have to mark my calendar for next year.
All the Longmire books are great and the show is wonderful
Reminds me of the good ole days of Wagon Train, Bonanza…
I just started watching this show last week. Looks very good.
Love this show
Love this show
The best!!!
Traveling 16 hours to Buffalo, Wyoming for Longmire Days was a highlight of a lifetime. There was enjoyment in steping back to enjoy life without a Walmart or Menards but rather the Busy Bee, Occidental Hotel/Saloon, Cold Dish, Big Horn Hotel, and good folks of Buffalo. But then we also have the man from Ucross – Craig Johnson who made it all happen with his talented style of writing and then A&E picking up on good television watching plus being part of the Longmire Days also. A Longmire Fan for Life. (-:
Boy oh boy. I wish I would have known so many of you were there, we could have corrdinated a CE meet-up! I am glad many of you were able to experience it, too.
Someone asked about finding out when next year’s is. I’m sure Craig will announce it on his Facebook page and website, but you can also follow the [url=https://www.facebook.com/buffalowyochamber]Buffalo Chamber on Facebook[/url], I’m sure they’ll announce when dates are set for 2015.
And no, Dog was not in attendance, but he was discussed…and Adam Bartley brought his dog, Virgil, with him!
Love this series!
I want to win something that says Boy Howdy!!!
great
I love this show. I haven’t missed an episode yet!
one of the better shows on tv. the event looks like a lot of fun
Wish I could have been there!! Have recently become hooked on this show. It is fantastic!!
Been enjoying the show since episode one.
That must of been a ton of fun
I looked into going this year a few months ago and could not get a room anywhere near there. I will plan to register for 2015 soon! Love the show and have been reading the books since they first came out.
[b]Good show, good contest.[/b]
Awesome weekend with a kind and down to earth cast. They all were so friendly and appreciative of the fans. I plan on making making more of the festivitiesnext year. Thank you to all of the volunteers for making this a wonderful Wyoming experience for all.
Great write-up! Wish I could have been there — maybe next year.
Thanks for the chance to win.
Found the show on NetFlicks and didn’t take me long to watch them all. Now I need to start reading his books as he has done Wyoming Proud
Love the books and the television show both. Looks like the community really hosted a great event.
I just started watching the show. The event looks like it was a lot of fun. Thanks for the giveaway.
Thanks for the update and the opportunity to win the swag! Hope to see this celebration for myself next year!
What a great article! It must have been wonderful to be able to attend.
Thanks for the chance to win this!!!
Craig Johnson looks like a completely different person without facial hair. This looks like so much fun. I thought I would cry when SPOILER Henry torched The Red Pony.
awesome! would love to win 🙂
Wow, what a cool event! I might have to go to Longmire Days!
Thanks for the cool contest 8D
Mindy 🙂
[url=mailto:Birdsooong@comcast.net]Birdsooong@comcast.net[/url]
I’ve been trying to stay away from Longmire on the internet to avoid spoilers for this season. Mondays this summer have been hectic, so I’ve been having to catch the reruns. It sounds like the town has a lot of fun during filming. 🙂 Would love to win.
Looks great!
Thanks!
the books are wonderful… I s Longmire! I hope I win! 🙂
We were looking for a place in that part of the country to vacation. Thanks for the idea.
This looks intriguing!
hubby would love this, thanks
This is one of my favorite shows. I love the how multi-dimensional all of the characters are especially Branch this year.
I’m in! love the stories!
We enjoy Longmire.Thanks.
I plan to visit WY next summer. I am planning to read the series before I come. After reading about the
the annual [url=http://www.buffalowyo.com/longmire.html]Longmire Days[/url], I will add this event and town to my plans.
I’d like this
Longmire is a great show! I’ve watched from the 1st episode! Love the whole cast! Wisj I could have gone! Thanks for the amazing prize!
my husband would absolutly love this.
my husband would absolutly love this.
Awesome show! The scenery of WY (in reality NM) brought me in and the stories and acting got me hooked. Can’t wait to take my wife and son to this next year.
Good deal, count me in!
longmire is sweet thanks for the giveaway
longmire is my favorite, i would love to win!!!
I love the Longmire show. I would love to win.
This would be such a cool gift for my mother, who absolutely loves this series!
My parents are obsessed with this series!
I would love to win.
I have heard a lot aabout this and would love to win. Thank you
My husband and I EAGERLY look forward to watching Longmire on Mondays. Our TV station plays it twice back to back to catch all the interesting little details. Then, we discuss the “what ifs” all week long. Longmire is way better than most television series because it’s the quality of the details!
I would love to attend one of these events in the future if they continue. I am thrilled that Netflix has picked up Longmire!!! I would like to win this swag.
Love the series and glad to see it is coming back. Guess I will have to get a subscription to Netflix. The books are great but they differ from the show.
I hope to make it to Longmire Days one day soon. It looks like great fun and it is awesome the way the actors have embraced the event. I can’t wait for the new episodes in the fall.