ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 4, 2024) ~ Annapolis, MD - Governor Wes Moore has once again declared October as Maryland Horse Month, recognizing the significant contributions of the state's horse industry. This month-long celebration will showcase the various ways in which Maryland is enriched by its equestrian community, from economic benefits to recreational and therapeutic opportunities.

In honor of Maryland Horse Month, the Maryland Horse Industry Board and its partners are highlighting a wide range of equestrian-related attractions, events, activities, trails, exhibits, and experiences throughout the state. Among these events is the highly anticipated Maryland 5-Star at Fair Hill, an international equestrian competition that will bring competitors from across the United States and abroad to Elkton from October 17-20.

Other major horse events taking place during Maryland Horse Month include the Capital Challenge Horse Show at Prince George's Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro (running through October 6), the Jim McKay Maryland Million horse race at Laurel Park Racetrack on October 12, and the Washington International Horse Show at Prince George's Equestrian Center from October 21-27.

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In addition to these major events, there will also be championship finals in jousting – Maryland's official state sport since 1962 – on October 5 and 12. The Tuckahoe Equestrian Center will also host their annual Celebration of the Horse on October 5. With over 42 Horse Discovery Centers across the state, individual farm owners and equine organizations will also be hosting a variety of All Breed exhibitions, rodeos, and other events.

"Maryland's thriving horse industry is a vital part of our state's agriculture," stated Kevin Atticks, Secretary of Agriculture for the Maryland Department of Agriculture. "I encourage all Marylanders to take part in at least one horse-related event during this month-long celebration."

For those looking to further immerse themselves in all things equestrian during Maryland Horse Month, the new Maryland Horse Library and Education Center on Historic Main Street in Reisterstown is a must-visit. This month marks the second anniversary of the center, which serves as an information hub for the industry and features a collection of sporting books, a memorabilia area, meeting space, interactive kiosks, and rotating exhibits.

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"This is our fourth year celebrating Maryland Horse Month and it continues to grow each year," said Ross Peddicord, Executive Director of the Maryland Horse Industry Board. "This year, we have published a guide and map of 22 trail riding stables across the state where the public can rent horses for guided trail rides. We also have self-guided driving tours available on visitmaryland.org that highlight over 150 equestrian-themed sites for visitors to explore and interact with horses."

The Maryland Department of Commerce's Office of Tourism has joined forces with the Horse Industry Board and various private-sector equestrian organizations to promote Maryland Horse Month.

"Maryland is home to world-class destinations such as Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park, as well as major equestrian events that draw thousands of visitors to our state," said Liz Fitzsimmons, Managing Director of the Maryland Department of Commerce Office of Tourism and Film. "Take a drive along the Horses & Hounds Scenic Byway to experience our beautiful countryside, known for producing Thoroughbreds that have raced on tracks across America."

To stay updated on all things Maryland Horse Month, follow along on social media using #MDHorse, #MDHorseMonth, #VisitMaryland, and #MDinFocus. For specific events happening throughout the month, use hashtags such as #Maryland5Star, #Makeit5Star, #CapitalChallenge, #MDMillion, #WIHS2023,#FEIWorldCup,and#TimeToBeat.

For more information on travel and events during Maryland Horse Month, visit marylandhorse.com/maryland-horse-month and visitmaryland.org.

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