Top 10 Things to See and Do at Scottsdale's Arabian Horse Show

Posted By Les Conklin on Feb 20, 2015

By Les Conklin

Scottsdale’s signature equestrian event celebrates its 60th anniversary the week of February 13 – 27, 2015. Since 1955, this annual event has grown from 50 horses participating to more than 2400. Top owners, trainers, and breeders from around the globe compete for more than $2 million in prizes. This promotional video gives you a flavor for the show.

Watch Promotional Video from PFC Arabians

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There are plenty of reasons to attend the show and 300,000 people are expected to enjoy it during the week. My wife and I don’t own a horse but have attended the show at least six different years. If you own an Arabian, the order of your “top 10” will probably be different from mine. Here is a brief description of the top 10 things to see and do at the show.

Top 10

1. Escape to Westworld of Scottsdale. Located at the base of the McDowell Mountains, WestWorld occupies 386 acres of pristine desert. Barns, fences, horses, and riding arenas remind you that you are in the west. This world-class venue is conveniently located at 16601 North Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85260. For information, visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld/events. Visit Website

2. Watch Horses Compete in the International Halter Classic. You’ll be able to watch horses compete and several categories including: Classic Straight Egyptian Heritage, Arabian Breeders Club, Signature Stallion Championship Classic, and Signature Stallion Auction Championship. This is the first year that straight Egyptian horses are competing at the event.

3. Shop. To the point, there are more than 300 Shopping Expo booths. Art, many different types of apparel, and a unique assortment of household and gift products. If you own a horse and are in the market for tack, trailers, barns, saddles, and health products.

4. Take a Behind the Scenes Barn Tour. The tour lasts about an hour and provides an opportunity to learn about the show’s history, what’s required to compete, and meet some of the competitors and their owners. Some barns are beautifully decorated.

5. Meet an Arabian Horse. This is something special for children and young adults; the chance to sit on an Arabian horse that are dressed in their native costumes and have their photographs taken. This event is free with admission to the grounds.

6. Consume Food and Drink. Come dine with an assortment of food vendors who serve up everything from gourmet crepes to grilled salmon in the International Cuisine Court.

7. Attend the International Signature Stallion Meeting and Soiree. Scottsdale Signature Stallion Owners are invited to this annual meeting. Changes to the Signature Stallion Futurity and Auction will be discussed. Supporters of the futurity program will celebrate the program’s success.

8. Enjoy the Scottsdale Signature Stallion Auction. Now is the time More than $592,710 in proposed prize money payouts. The auction is the place to be for breeders and Arabian horse buyers and sellers to be. A catalogue of horses available at the auction is available on the show’s website and is enjoyable to peruse.

9. Attend Educational Presentation by Equestrian Experts. Presentations include “Essential Elements of Horsemanship,” “Four Natural Aids to Learn,” and “Sport Horse Basics.” See the show’s website for more information.

10. Paint a Pony. Kids can go wild painting ceramic ponies.

Ticket Prices

Tickets are available in advance or at the gate. General admission is $10 a day. General admission for evening performances is $15 an evening. Seniors/Military are $7 a day and children 12 and under are free. For other ticket options, visit the show’s website. Tickets can be purchased online at TicketMaster at (800) 745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.Â Visit Website