Eleven Saddlebred horse stables will open their doors to the public from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 13, in the 4th annual “Parade of Stables – Saddlebred Horses in the Spotlight” event. Horse lovers of all ages are invited to visit one or more stables to discover the fun and excitement of the American Saddlebred horse during this free event.

Each stable will show horses being trained, demonstrate riding lessons, show how Saddlebreds are groomed and cared for, and much more. You’ll see videos of these gorgeous horses in action in the show ring and can pick up free materials about this remarkable breed. At many stables you can enter drawings for a free riding lesson. Some stables have welcomed new baby Saddlebreds this spring.

Whether you plan to spend a few minutes or a few hours, you’re welcome to visit some beautiful horses and experience what goes on in a stable. Find out why so many Minnesotans are getting involved with horses and the many benefits of riding and driving Saddlebreds.

The Parade of Stables event is organized by the Minnesota Saddlebred Horse Association (MSHA).

The following stables are participating in this free event. Please call them for directions or information or visit www.msha.org. You can also call MSHA board member Becky Robb Hotzler at 651-734-5395.

- Delano – Centre Pointe Training Stables, 5756 Ehler Ave. S., 763-972-6397

- Hastings – Lear Stables, 19025 Coates Blvd., 651-438-9008

- Hugo – Hardwood Creek Farm, 2306 E. 80th Street, 651-429-4900

- Isanti - Foster Farm, 1376 257th Ave. N.W., 612-616-6687

- Lakeville – Bob Jensen Stables, 19650 Judicial Road, 952-435-5774

- Montrose – Indigo Acres, 3750 Meridian Ave. S., 612-308-2266

- Plato – Westwood Farm, 16 McLeod Ave. N., 952-467-3295

- St. Francis – Manahan Stables, 6599 261st Ave. N.W., 763-444-6722

- Stillwater – Flying E Stables, 13850 30th St. N., 651-439-6931

- Stillwater - Valiant Stables, 11755 N. Partridge Road, 651-430-1763

- Roberts, Wis. - Marie Bouvet Training, located at Sleepy Hollow Farm, 474 Sleepy Hollow Drive, 715-425-0337

Though they might not know the breed by name, many Minnesotans see Saddlebreds each year at the State Fair, where they compete in the English Horse Show and captivate crowds with their stately walks between the horse barn and the Coliseum.

The American Saddlebred breed was developed in the 18th century by colonists who wanted a good looking and versatile horse to ride and drive. They became the breed of choice for many generals and soldiers in the Civil War. As far back as the early nineteenth century, proud Saddlebred owners would gather together to show off their animals in competitive horse shows, which were a popular form of public entertainment. This tradition continues today in local and national horse shows. Today the versatile Saddlebred is used in most kinds of equine sports and competitions around the world, as well as being trusted companions for pleasure and trail riding.