El Dorado County Fair is a registered non-profit 501 (c) (3)

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm

Golden Spur Horse Shows

Where riders of all levels come to learn, grow, and shine.

Buckle Series Horse Show

Our Golden Spur Schooling Shows offer a welcoming and supportive environment for riders of all levels to gain experience and confidence in the show ring. Whether you’re just starting out or polishing your skills, these shows are designed to help both horse and rider grow. Join us for a fun, low-pressure day of horsemanship, sportsmanship, and community.

More Than Ribbons: How Horse Shows Help Youth Grow Into Thriving Adults

Behind every rider in the show ring is a journey shaped by dedication, discipline, and personal growth. Youth participation in horse show competitions like the Golden Spur Horse Shows goes far beyond winning ribbons—it’s about building the foundation for lifelong success.

Caring for a horse teaches responsibility, time management, and compassion. Preparing for competition instills focus, perseverance, and resilience. In the ring, young riders learn how to handle pressure, take feedback with grace, and celebrate both victories and learning moments.

Horse shows also foster leadership and teamwork. Whether helping a fellow rider, working with a trainer, or volunteering at events, youth gain communication skills and a strong sense of community. These experiences shape confident individuals who are ready to face challenges and contribute positively to the world around them.

In short, the skills learned through horse show competition are the very ones that help young people grow into respectful, hard-working, and capable adults—both in and out of the arena.

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Horse Show Newsletter

2025 Horse Show Series Dates

Entries are typically due the Wednesday before each show. A $5 late fee applies to each entry submitted after that date. Day-of-show registration is available at the increased entry fee. Ranch and Reining patterns will be posted the week prior to the show, while Trail patterns will be available by QR Code the morning of the show. Please note there is a fourteen-dollar drug testing fee per horse entered into the show.

2026 Spring Series Dates

SundayFebruary 227:30 amRanch & Reining Patterns
High Points Standing
SundayMarch 157:30 amRanch & Reining Patterns
High Points Standing
SundayApril 127:30 amRanch & Reining Patterns
High Points Standing
SundayMay 107:30 amRanch & Reining Patterns
High Points Standing

2026 Fall Series Dates

SundayAugust 237:30 amRanch & Reining Patterns
High Points Standing
SundaySeptember 207:30 amRanch & Reining Patterns
High Points Standing
SundayOctober 117:30 amRanch & Reining Patterns
High Points Standing
SundayNovember 87:30 amRanch & Reining Patterns
High Points Standing

Sponsorship Opportunities for the Horse Show Series

Become a Series Sponsor – Leave a Lasting Legacy in the Arena

Saddle up for a unique opportunity to support the heart of our local equestrian community! The Golden Spur Horse Shows draw riders, families, and horse lovers from across the region, and nothing shines brighter than the coveted championship buckles awarded in the ring. 

As a Buckle Sponsor, it’s more than just a buckle—it’s a moment of victory that recipients will cherish for a lifetime.

As a Flag Sponsor, your business name will be showcased in Grand Ole Entry fashion at the beginning of each show in the series. 

Banner Sponsors get year-round publicity, as their banner hangs in the Henningsen Arena all year for both series participants and riders to see. 

Your sponsorship includes:

  • Recognition on our event signage and social media

  • Optional presentation opportunity during the awards ceremony

  • A heartfelt thank-you from riders and their families

Support youth and amateur riders, grow your brand within the equestrian community, and help make these shows unforgettable. Join us in celebrating horsemanship, sportsmanship, and community pride.

Thank You for Supporting the Golden Spur Horse Shows!
We are incredibly grateful to our generous community for sponsoring buckles and donating raffle items to our Golden Spur Horse Shows. Your support helps us create a rewarding experience for riders of all ages and keeps the spirit of horsemanship alive and thriving. Because of you, our shows are more than just competitions—they’re celebrations of growth, sportsmanship, and community pride. Thank you for making it all possible! ♥

WE ♥ DONATIONS!
Big thanks to our amazing partners for contributing to our Raffle — we couldn’t do it without you!

Sponsorship or Donation Opportunities or other information, email horseshow@eldoradocountyfair.org or call 530.621.5860.