The SandHills rodeo ranks among the top PRCA-sanctioned rodeos in the United States, and attracts nearly 1,000 contestants.

Among the horse show activities is the $20,000 RAM Invitational Freestyle Reining, in which riders in elaborate costumes circle, stop and spin their way through routines set to music.

The first few days of the stock show is called Ranching Heritage Weekend. It features the Best of the West Invitational Ranch Rodeo, always a crowd pleaser, along with an invitational ranch horse show and sale and the Best of the West Remuda sale.

The Dixie National is known for its horse shows— especially its Quarter Horse show—but also hosts a farriers’ competition, rodeo and concerts.

The Santa Fe Trail Ride begins at the Spade Ranch on January 25 and arrives at the San Angelo Fairgrounds January 31, and then makes the 7-mile trip to historic Fort Concho on February 1 to help kick o the stock show.

The Central Florida Hunter Jumper Association and Florida Paint Horse Club have events during the fair.

The Youth Horse Challenge, open to Texas 4-H and FFA members, showcases the ability of young horsemen to train a horse. Contestants must keep records, demonstrate knowledge, and ride in rail and trail classes.