This February Scottsdale becomes Arabian Horse capitol of the world
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
The Arabian Horse Association of Arizona is announcing the return of the 68th annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
The world’s largest Arabian horse show will run from Thursday, Feb. 16, through Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023, featuring the world’s best Arabians, exciting competitions and a shopping expo, according to a press release.
“Scottsdale is the mecca for Arabian horses and each year we’re thrilled to have unique, beautiful horses from around the world come here for this event,” said Taryl O’Shea, executive director of the AHAA. “The Arabian horse community helped shape what Scottsdale is today and has had tremendous impact both economically, culturally and socially over the past six-plus decades. We’re grateful for the opportunity to welcome back the horse community, newcomers, and enthusiasts this February.”
The 2023 show will feature more than 2,000 horses competing for more than $3 million in prize money, the release states.
Event goers can look forward to a huge variety of classes where Arabians will show their versatility, beauty and grace. One is the new ranch horse classes testing the Arabians’ ability to perform ranch tasks, proving the uniqueness of this horse as good for pleasure riding, working and agility.
The immersive experience will return this year, giving attendees a hands-on experience to learn, touch and ride, hosted by HoofbeatZ USA, a Phoenix-based organization. The interactive experience, included in the event ticket, introduces newcomers to the world of horses and all the benefits they offer.
Also, event attendees will have the opportunity to see exhibits featuring fine art, crafts, clothing and jewelry in the shopping expo adjacent to the main arena. More than 300 artisans and entrepreneurs are expected to sell unique goods and offer a wide variety of products and services, the release states.
The AHAA is celebrating the second annual National Arabian Horse Day on Feb. 19 with special events and activities at the show.
The 11-day show will start at 8 a.m. each day at WestWorld, 16601 N. Pima Road in Scottsdale. General admission tickets cost $15, tickets for seniors are $10, while children aged 12 and under are free. Military Appreciation Day is Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, when military personnel and their families can attend for free. A family night will be held on Friday, Feb. 24, giving families free admission beginning at 6:30 p.m.
A special general admission ticket good for all 11 days can be purchased for $75.
