The cinematic appeal of the Old West is undeniable. Few things captivate audiences young and old like a striking cowboy beneath a golden sunset or the simple beauty of the untouched American landscape. Since the debut of the Western genre in the early 20th century, audiences world-wide have tuned in to the classic American tale of good overcoming evil.

Today, the mystique of the Old West lives on in Santa Clarita, located just 25 minutes north of Los Angeles. The film industry has called Santa Clarita home for nearly a century as legends like John Ford, William S. Hart and Gene Autry fell in love with the area’s versatility and authentic Western heritage, characteristics that continue to make Santa Clarita one of the most filmed areas in greater Los Angeles.

Santa Clarita pays homage to its Western roots and rich film culture via the Walk of Western Stars. Similar in style to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Walk of Western Stars honors actors, directors and film professionals for their contributions to the Western heritage of America. Previous honorees have included Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, John Wayne, Sam Elliott, Richard Farnsworth and Bruce Dern, among others.

The Walk of Western Stars is held in conjunction with the City of Santa Clarita’s highly regarded Cowboy Festival at Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio, formerly owned by Gene Autry. This event has been recognized the world over as one of the finest of its kind.

The City of Santa Clarita produces the Walk of Western Stars event in coordination with Carousel Ranch, a Santa-Clarita based non-profit organization that provides developmental therapeutic and recreational programs for disabled and disadvantaged children through horses. 

A portion of the proceeds raised and donations received through the Walk of Western Stars will benefit Carousel Ranch, allowing them to reach an even greater number of children and expand their programming.

This year’s Walk of Western Stars events will take place on Friday, April 25, 2008. Purchase your tickets today!