By PHOEBE DONALD ROBINSON/Community columnist

The Wild West is returning to Columbiana for the 6th Annual Cowboy Day on Saturday, Feb. 15.

The event will begin at 10 a.m. on the Summer Classics land adjacent to the courthouse parking lot on West College Street, and the town will decorate with the look of the old West. The Wild West shootout on Main Street is at high noon and the Cowboy Parade starts at 1 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Shelby County Cattleman’s Association and the City of Columbiana.

“There is always something happening in Columbiana,” said Cowboy Day founder and Columbiana Mayor Stancil Handley. “Six years ago we came up with the idea to have Cowboy Day in Columbiana the week before the rodeo to help promote it. It was such a success that it has become one of Columbiana’s yearly highlights.”

Cowboy Day will the week before the Shelby County Cattleman’s Rodeo, which is Friday- Saturday, Feb. 21 and 22, at the Shelby County Exhibition Center in Columbiana.

“The day is just full of family fun events,” Handley said. “We have the shoot out on Main Street at noon, mechanical bull to ride, Wild West chili cook off and town full of cowboys. There will be live music by Randy Glenn and band, a local Shelby County favorite. This year there will be plenty of food, vendors and cowboy related items to sell.”

The Cowboy Parade is open to the public, but not motorized vehicles. Primitive camping is available for riders along with trail rides. Farriers and blacksmiths will be demonstrating their talents.

Cowbody Day will feature roping and wood carvers, as well as activities and exhibits for people of all ages.

“There will be horses galore and every cowboy and cowgirl is welcome,” Handley said. “Wannabees are welcome, too. Come cowboy up with us in Columbiana on Feb 15. This is just another one-of-kind event in Columbiana, where something is always happening.”

For information on camping or the parade, call Handley at 669-4131.