Every year, the Rose Parade’s equestrian units captivate audiences from around the world with their beauty, grace and precision. But fans don’t have to wait until New Year’s Day to see these talented riders and their magnificent horses in action.
The annual Equestfest is scheduled to return from 10 a.m to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 29, at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center. This highly anticipated event will offer attendees an up-close look at the 18 equestrian groups preparing to ride in the 136th Rose Parade, themed “Best Day Ever!”
Participants can expect thrilling performances featuring precision drills, dazzling dance routines, impressive roping skills and awe-inspiring tricks. The event also provides animal lovers of all ages opportunities to interact with a variety of horse breeds .
In addition to the equestrian showcase, this family-friendly celebration includes live music, educational and interactive exhibits, as well as a food and vendor court.
Equestrian units have been an integral part of the Rose Parade and its surrounding activities since the Tournament of Roses began in 1890. These groups complement the floats and bands as they journey down Colorado Boulevard on New Year’s Day.
In 2025, they will once again showcase their diverse talents and poise on the world stage. From square-dancing horses to award-winning cowgirls and police horses that bring joy to children in hospitals, each unit brings its own unique flair to the festivities.
Here are the Rose Parade Equestrian units (listed alphabetically)
Arabian Horse Association Versatile Arabians–Greenwood Village, Colorado
Blue Shadows Mounted Drill Team–Lake View Terrace, California
Budweiser Clydesdales–St. Louis, Missouri
First Cavalry Division, Horse Cavalry Detachment–Fort Cavazos, Texas
International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association–Birmingham, Alabama
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department-Sheriff’s Museum Foundation–Los Angeles, California
Los Hermanos Banuelos Charro Team–Altadena, California
Mini Therapy Horses–Calabasas, California
Northwest Spotted Drafts–Ferndale, Washington
Painted Ladies Rodeo Performers–Sacramento, California
Scripps Miramar Ranch–San Diego, California
Spirit of the West Riders–Arcadia, California
The New Buffalo Soldiers–Shadow Hills, California
The Norco Cowgirls Rodeo Drill Team–Norco, California
The Valley Hunt Club–Pasadena, California
United States Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard–Barstow, California
Gates open at 10 a.m. Tickets are $25 per person, with free entry for children aged 5 and under. Parking will be available for $20 per car at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.
For more information or to purchase a ticket, please visit: https://tickets.sharpseating.com/p/tickets11/events/equestfest
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