Get ready, neighbors—on August 8, 2025, the 27th Annual Round Up Auction: “Huckleberry & Horseshoes” is galloping into the AgriPlex at the Washington State Fairgrounds. This isn’t just any charity auction—it’s a beloved local tradition where community meets cause, cowboys meet cocktails, and you just might leave with a new favorite Western belt buckle (or a glass that wins you $1,000). From the quirky dress code to the high-stakes bidding, it’s the kind of event that turns fundraising into an all-out celebration.
Why It Matters: Funding Education, One Bid at a Time
Since 1991, the Blue Ribbon Scholarship Program has awarded more than $2.2 million to Washington students pursuing their dreams. In the upcoming year, they’re aiming to award $157,000 in scholarships—a powerful investment in future leaders, thinkers, and change-makers. This event isn’t just about who wins the biggest prize; it’s about uplifting our community through education. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to contribute to someone’s future while sipping a martini and cheering on a live auction?
What’s Happening at the Auction?
The evening kicks off at 5:30 PM with the silent auction, open bar, and passed appetizers (you know the type—delicious but never quite enough). You’ll want to come hungry though, because at 6:45 PM, dinner is served, followed by the live auction and Fund-A-Need program.
Don’t miss the games of chance, where guests can buy a martini glass for a shot at winning $1,000 in cash or another exciting prize. Only at a fundraiser could glassware double as gambling gear. Between the auctioneer’s charm and your second cocktail, bidding has never felt more thrilling.
The Western Twist: Dress Code Decoded
This is a 21+ reservation-only event—so leave the kiddos at home and channel your inner cowboy (or cowgirl). The dress code is “dressy casual/Western,” which roughly translates to: wear something you’d feel comfortable line dancing in, but still nice enough to sit at a dinner table with your boss. And yes, White Hats are encouraged—whatever that means to you. Expect to see a blend of denim, rhinestones, and people Googling “What is dressy casual Western?” until the last minute.
Getting There
Enter through the Green Gate at 5th and 15th if you’ve preregistered. No walk-ins allowed—it’s all about planning ahead, kind of like figuring out what you’re going to wear that’s just “Western enough.” This may sound like a math problem before you even arrive, but trust us, it’s worth it.
Why You Should Go
This event is part auction, part dinner party, and part small-town rodeo—all rolled into one. You’ll laugh, you’ll bid, you might even win something. But more than that, you’ll be part of a tradition that’s making a tangible difference in people’s lives. It’s the kind of night where giving back actually feels like a good time.
