Downtown Carbondale’s Fourth Street Plaza played host to the 12th annual Cowboy Up benefit on Friday, Aug. 27. Guests could sign up for a VIP table or pay a nominal general admission charge to take part in the community-centric event, making it accessible to a wide range of people. Most arrived in their finest Western attire with cowboy boots and hats, getting into the spirit. Each year, Cowboy Up benefits a different cause and this year’s beneficiary was Carbondale’s own Smiling Goat Ranch. Over the years, they’ve helped raise several thousands of dollars for each of the chosen non-profits, which are selected by the board of directors through an application process. Recent recipients include Ascendigo Autism Services and Patrick’s Place Drop-In Center. Smiling Goat Ranch was chosen this year for its mission to use horses to help humans heal while not charging families for their services.

The family-friendly fund-raiser featured live music from Southside Highway, live and silent auctions, a mechanical bull from Tim Nieslanik, wagon rides and cocktail hour with Smiling Goat’s adorable mini horses Wendy and Tinkerbelle. Slow Groovin’ BBQ served family-style meals at the VIP tables while Gerb’s Grub food truck whipped up dinner for the general admission attendees, which made everyone well fed and happy!