American Bear Foundation & Wyoming Wildlife Federation present the
Annual Bear Banquet
March 21, 2026
Sponsored by Montana Knife Company
The Wyoming Wildlife Federation (WWF) and the American Bear Foundation (ABF) are excited to announce the Fourth Annual Bear Banquet, set for 6:00 p.m. on March 21, 2026, at the Cody Cattle Company in Cody, WY (1910 Demaris Dr, Cody, WY 82414). This signature fundraising event brings together conservationists, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and community partners in support of large carnivore conservation and science-based wildlife management across the state.
The Bear Banquet has quickly become a highlight of the conservation calendar. Last year’s 2025 banquet was a record-breaking success, raising over $34,000 to support bear research, management, and community outreach — nearly a 50% increase over previous years.
The banquet’s success reflects a vibrant community of Wyoming wildlife supporters. This year's celebration will include:
- Educational workshops on black bear conservation, hunting tactics, and field skills led by wildlife experts.
- A lively dinner, silent auction, and live auction featuring unique outdoor experiences and gear.
- Fun games, raffles, and giveaways throughout the evening.
- Opportunities to connect with like-minded conservation advocates and learn about ongoing and future large carnivore initiatives.
Event details
Friday Meet and Greet at Cody Firearms Experience
March 20th 7 P.M. - 9 P.M.
Come hang out and visit with American Bear Foundation volunteers and Wyoming Wildlife Federation Staff. Drinks, Ax-Throwing, and plenty of guns to shoot!
Cody Firearms Experience, 142 W Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY 82414
Don't miss the Saturday Seminars!
New location for the seminars this year. All seminars will be held at the Cody, Wyoming Game and Fish Office at 2 Tilden Trail.
Seminars start at 1 P.M. and will wrap up around 4 P.M.
Come and learn about the status of grizzly bears and delisting, E-Scouting, Pack animals in the backcountry, how to pack for extended hunts, and much more.
1:00 PM | Dan Thompson - The Bear State of the Union & How to Stay Safe by WGFD
2:00 PM | Levi Kary - Wyoming American Bear Foundation Chapter By ABF.
2:30 PM | Kenneth Thrall - How to Pack Out a Heavy Load by Kifaru
3:00 PM | Alex Aguirre - Backcountry Hunting in Grizzly Country by Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership
3:30 PM | Philip Velayo - How to Shoot Well by The Cadre Training
Banquet
Where: Cody Cattle Company in Cody, WY (1910 Demaris Dr, Cody, WY 82414)
When: Saturday, March 21, Welcome at 6:00 p.m., Dinner at 6:30 p.m., Remarks at 7:00 p.m., Raffle & Games at 7:30 p.m., Live Auction at 8:00 p.m.
Who: Conservationists, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and community partners in support of large carnivore conservation and science-based wildlife management across the state
2026 Title SPONSOR
2026 Supporting SPONSORs
Interested in becoming a sponsor?
Check out our Sponsor Packet here and reach out to joekondelis@gmail.com for more information.
All proceeds are split between the nonprofit organizations; the American Bear Foundation & the Wyoming Wildlife Federation. Both organizations missions focus on furthering wildlife conservation and our hunting heritage.
You can become a member of the American Bear Foundation here >>
Learn about Wyoming Wildlife Federation memberships here >>