Germantown Charity Horse Show

Don't even want to admit how long we have been coming to the show. My sister has exhibited on and off for decades. It's a great family event and a Germantown tradition.

Being born in Kentucky, there are two things you learn to appreciate- bourbon, and horses. Hell, I was baptized in bourbon (I will save that one for another day). But on a serious note, to this day, there is a picture of Secretariat hanging over the fireplace at the house in Atlanta. I told my mother that picture is to never leave that space. Shit gets serious...In north Atlanta, there are a lot of horse farms, and in southeast ATL, there is even an Olympic equestrian facility. But I never went. I have only been to Churchill Downs a few times to bet on horses (nothing big, just regular season races). But still, I had never been to or seen a horse show, until a few weeks ago.When I moved to TN, I didn't realize how close I had moved back to horse country. Apparently 3 miles close. And I had heard it was a big deal here. So that was exciting to here. And when I heard there was a show coming up- the 65th annual to be exact, I wanted to see it, as I knew it would be special.However, for me (a complete newbie at this whole thing) it was somewhat confusing. The horse show was supposed to be 4 days long, with a complete schedule for each day. Looking at each day's schedule, well lets just say there was a lot to it! But I was told big thing to check out was the Grand Prix ($25,000 purse), which was Saturday night. But I was supposed to be in Atlanta. So when could I make it??!!?!A decision was made, and I delayed the trip to Atlanta. I wanted to see this Grand Prix. It is a huge local tradition, and I wanted to see what it was all about. I got to the grounds somewhat early, as I had no idea where to initially park. Hell, I think I even ended up in one of the stables (whoops!). But I turned back around quickly before anyone noticed (yea right, it was so obvious). Parking was free, and I was directed by Germantown's finest in a grass lot. Then I headed to the track area. Admission was $5, and the lady who got me my ticket was very nice. When I entered the main arena area, I was looking for the seats with the shade- so I hovered to the right and worked my way down near where the horses enter/exit the ring (is that what it is called?)? There was plenty of shade. However, with all of the trees, I recommend you bring bug spray or some sort of repellent- I can see that being a potential for lots of bug bites.So I watched the Grand Prix, which was pretty cool, getting to see men and women of all ages from all over the country compete for the prize. You can sometimes overlook the amount of time, money, and effort people put into this, and the entire thing is just fascinating.I wanted to stay longer, but a gentleman next to me in a nutshell told me his life story and made me want to cry. He made me realize how much I missed my family and it was time to hit the road to ATL (that story is for another day). I wished him a happy Father's Day, and went on.For $5 admission, this is pretty cool stuff and an awesome way to spend a Saturday night. I honestly do not know how often these shows are, but I would like to see more of them! A great local gem that I hope continues to go on for generations to come.

I've been coming to this horse show for over 20 years. I started out as a spectator at 4 or 5 but then at age 8, I became a competitor. It is my favorite show all year (and I attend over 15 - minimum) because this show is why I started riding. There is something incredible about thousands of people, watching together, seeing what a horse and their rider can do. It is magical. I love hearing the gasps when people watch the horses seemingly fly or the thunderous applause for a clear round. We don't get crowds like this during the rest of the year, so this is a special time. Plus you throw in snow cones, funnel cakes, cotton candy, and BBQ into the mix and it is a guaranteed good time. There are also vendors (artists, jewelers, the like) so you can go shopping. It is a bit hot so I recommend hand fans or sitting in the shade. My favorite time is when it finally gets dark and the lights turn on and people are still there. If you have kids, I definitely recommend it. Although I can't promise they won't want a horse afterwards!

This horse show is a tradition and is an important part of the Germantown community. It is in essence a fund raiser for the Exchange Club but it is also a social event for the area. Horses come from all of the country to compete. If you have a horse lover in the family or if you just want to experience local Germantown culture this is a fun show to attend. It is held in early June each year.

The Germantown Charity Horse Show has ended for 2013, but what a fun time it was. I hated to see it end... If you missed it this year, mark your calendar for 2014. Such a great time full of tradition and fun. Come show with us if you ride/show, or just come out and enjoy watching these amazing animals.

I always enjoy this event. It's an authentic Memphis original, and is enjoyable across all age groups. The Germantown Community Center has been upgraded over the years, and now is very comfortable. The vendors range from cotton candy, snow cones, and corn dogs to lattés and art. Of course, it's all about the horses, and there is truly some horse event for everyone. For the children, there's a lead line with ponies and costumes, and then there are walking horses, Arabian horses, hunter events, and a Grand Prix. General admission provides benches on a hillside, but you can buy seats in a box and bring a picnic and wine to enjoy with friends. At least go once, just because it's a Memphis tradition. And this tradition began well before downtown May events.

This is our second year attending the show. What a fantastic event for the whole family! I wish they could end it a bit earlier. I think it ran until 10:30, a little late for kids.

The Germantown Charity Horse Show is an awesome family event in the heart of Germantown. It is one of the largest multi-breed horse shows in the country and is designated as a Heritage Competition by the United States Equestrian Federation. It's a fabulous way to spend time with family and friends with good food and great competition.