Whether you’re trying to showcase your horse among the best in your area or you’re an avid horse lover who’s just eager to listen to the pros, there are plenty of big-time conventions in the U.S. that cater to trainers and owners all across the country. Besides all the lights, festivities and overall excitement, these gatherings and events are great learning opportunities for any trainer trying to take notes getting the most out of their horse at home. If you’re interested in attending some of these revered events, take a look at some of the biggest U.S. horse conventions to find one that’s close to you:
American Quarter Horse Association Convention
The American Quarter Horse Association is the biggest equine breed registry and membership organization in the world, and their annual convention is held every spring. Every year marks a different location for the event, spanning for four days and recognizing those who have earned their legacy within the horsing community, as well as plenty of forums and keynote speakers. Every AQHA convention features inductions into the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame, as well as a competition among some of the best cowboys in the nation. There are also important forums and seminars regarding the latest equine health research, where everything from advancements in horse supplements to new training accessories are elaborated on. While the 2015 AQHA Convention has already passed, keep an eye out for next year’s dates to see if the event is moving close to your city.
Midwest Horse Fair
Any trainers or owners who reside in the Midwest should definitely consider making the trip up to Madison, Wisconsin, next month for the 2015 Midwest Horse Fair. This is one of the largest horse-related events in the country, and especially recognized as a must-attend opportunity for anyone looking to boost their owner education. For three days, trainers, researchers and cowboys alike will give speeches related to their areas of expertise to crowds. If you’re interested in providing some of your own expertise, you can sign up to be a judge at the horse showmanship competition. And once all the lectures and competitions are out of the way, get ready for some nightly entertainment. From team roping to barrel racing, you can get a front row seat to some of the best rodeo action you’ll find in the entire Midwest. This year’s event is slated to take place from April 17-19.
Western States Horse Expo
From June 5-7 this year, the Western States Horse Expo in Sacramento will be the western epicenter for anyone who considers themselves invested in the horse industry. Clinicians, competitors and shoppers alike will flock to the convention for three days of a wide variety of events. One of the official speakers at this year’s Western States Horse Expo include Pat Parelli, founder of the Parelli Natural Horsemanship, where more than 200,000 students from around the world have enrolled in training lessons since its inception. Chris Cox, host of Chris Cox Horsemanship, will also be there to share his secrets on horse training and ownership, and there will also be several competitions featuring some of the most decorated horses on the West Coast.
The Mane Event, Equine Education & Trade Fair
This fall, Chilliwack, British Columbia, will host the The Mane Event, Equine Education & Trade Fair, one of Canada’s biggest horse conventions dedicated to education, competition and general entertainment. From October 23-25, some of the most respected horse clinicians in all of North America will gather to provide useful information every horse owner can utilize and appreciate. It’s also a massive trade show, where you can bring your equipment and accessories and find a great deal on any horse products you need. After you’ve gathered some tips and stocked up on equipment, get front and center for the trainer’s challenge, where some of Canada’s top trainers will go head-to-head in a series of competitions that will be sure to live up to the hype. This is definitely one of the must-see horse conventions in the entire continent!
