For the Love of Horses
Frank J. Buchman
Columnist
Calendar dates must be circled in red for the EquiFest of Kansas, March 14-17, at Salina.
That’s the announcement from Justine Staten, executive director of the Kansas Horse Council, producer of EquiFest.
The first EquiFest was at Wichita in 1998, then in Topeka starting in 2016, and Salina has hosted EquiFest since 2020.
“This year’s EquiFest is again four days at the Saline County Livestock Expo Center and Tony’s Pizza Events Center,” Staten said.
More than 15,000 people have annually attended EquiFest which serves as the Kansas Horse Council (KHC) primary fundraiser.
“The KHC provides the Kansas equine industry with leadership and direction through education, promotion, and public policy advocacy,” Staten said.
“What makes EquiFest so special is the variety,” Staten emphasized. “There’ll be all breeds of horses and all disciplines represented throughout the competitions, demonstrations, and displayed exhibits.”
In addition, EquiFest features educational and informative workshops, world-renowned clinicians, music, poetry, history, and storytelling.
The horse trade show is open all four days featuring wall-to-wall vendors in multiple locations.
“They’ll offer something for everyone, clothing, accessories, saddles, tack, home décor, trucks, trailers, tractors, implements, and more,” Staten said.
Children are the future of every horse activity, so a special Kids’ Corral is again being developed encouraging youth involvement.
The EquiFest horse judging contest has been revamped this year with additional divisions to increase participation for impressive awards.
Everybody always asks: “What will there be to eat?” According to Staten, “If you like a variety of food, check out several food trucks and concessions on site. Again, there’s something for all tastes.”
Attendees at EquiFest will also once more have an opportunity to meander through the stall barn. “You can see up close anything from long-eared minis to gentle giants. Living history is on display at a military encampment,” Staten said.
Competitions include a barrel race, ranch rodeo, and breakaway roping.
Among clinicians are Guy McLean, Australian horseman; Jerry Diaz, family horsemanship; Patrick Sullivan, liberty horsemanship; Julie Goodnight, training resources; and Sally Batton, equestrian team coach.
Workshops throughout the four days are to feature Native American Traditions, riding exercises, Kansas horseback trails, and legendary horsemen panel.
A special feature is Celebrate EquiFest The World Of Horses on Thursday night, March 14.
Annual meeting of the Kansas Horse Council is Sunday morning, March 17, with a complimentary Chris Cakes breakfast for all. Cowboy church will follow.
A complete schedule of activities is available at www.equifestofks.com.
