Born to Be Wild 2026
A Celebration in the Year of the Fire Horse
Born to Be Wild returns in 2026 for an unforgettable evening celebrating America’s wild horses and burros—and the fierce spirit that protects them. This year, we gather in the Year of the Fire Horse, a symbol of strength, freedom, resilience, and forward motion.
Join The Cloud Foundation for a night of connection, storytelling, and purpose as we come together to honor the wild horses who inspire our work and the advocates who stand with them.
Guests of all ages will enjoy a variety of interactive and family-friendly experiences throughout the evening, including:
Back by popular demand: our Mustang Kissing Booth - smiles guaranteed 🐴
Arts & crafts activities for kids
A Stick Horse (“Stickstang”) obstacle course—anyone interested in debuting a Stickstang Show? 👀
In the Flying W arena, high-energy under-saddle performances showcasing the athleticism and versatility of our equine partners
The Parade of Mustangs returns after a standout debut in 2025—an audience favorite that brings the wild horse story vividly to life
These experiences are designed to engage, educate, and delight—creating memorable moments for families, longtime supporters, and first-time guests alike.
The Born to Be Wild Gala is our signature annual celebration—a night of connection, storytelling, and shared purpose. The evening brings together a community committed to protecting wild horses and burros, with proceeds supporting The Cloud Foundation’s advocacy, education, and legal efforts—today and for generations to come.
Whether longtime supporters or first-time guests, attendees leave with a deeper understanding of—and connection to—America’s wild horses and burros.
EVENT SCHEDULE
4:00 - Meet & Greet Formerly Wild Mustangs & Burros - Meet, greet, and have photos taken with some beautiful mustang ambassadors! Don’t forget to visit the Mustang Kissing Booth!
4:00 - Silent Auction Viewing - Bid on a wide variety of items and experiences in our silent auction!
4:30 - Youth Activities - Take part in Arts & Crafts, Games (Hobby Horse Obstacle Course)!
4:45 -5:45 Opening Ceremony and Parade of Mustangs & Burros!
Join us in the Flying W Arena, enjoy performances on horseback, followed by a Parade of Mustangs and Burros! Meet and learn about formerly wild horses and burros from a variety of Herd Management Areas across the West, and see what-all the American Mustang (& Burro!) can do!
6:00 - Supper Time - Enjoy a delicious chuckwagon dinner prepared and served by the Flying W Team!
* Vegetarian options available!
6:45 - Presentations: Key Notes, Golden Phoenix Award, Live Auction
8:00 - Silent, Table, and Live Auctions End - Please give our team some time to gather your auction items so we can assist you with checkout.
8:30: Entertainment
9:45 - Happy Trails!
🏨 HOTEL ACCOMODATIONS
Check back for HOST HOTEL information!
✨ To celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse, we honor courage, persistence, and the power of community. We hope you’ll join us for an evening that celebrates the wild spirit—and fuels the work ahead.