The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show returns Feb. 12–22 at WestWorld. Here’s what to know about tickets, events, shopping, free nights, and first-timer tips.
One of Scottsdale’s longest-running winter traditions is back this February. The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show returns to WestWorld of Scottsdale from Feb. 12 to 22, bringing world-class competition, shopping, family-friendly experiences, and more than a few reasons for locals to finally check it out—even if they’ve never watched a horse show before.
Now in its 71st year, the event is considered one of the most prestigious Arabian horse shows in the world, drawing competitors and spectators from across the globe while anchoring Scottsdale’s busy winter event season.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime fan, here’s what to know before you go.
A Scottsdale staple with global reach
What started as a regional show has grown into an international destination. Each year, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show draws tens of thousands of spectators and nearly 2,000 horses competing for more than $1 million in prize money.
Beyond the competition, the show plays a major role in Scottsdale’s tourism economy, filling hotels, restaurants, and rideshares for nearly two weeks straight—and showcasing a deep equestrian heritage tied to Arizona and the Southwest.
What’s new for 2026
This year’s show continues to raise the bar with expanded programming and a bigger focus on accessibility for casual visitors.
Notable updates include refinements to class scheduling for smoother flow, continued growth in prize money across multiple divisions, and expanded interactive experiences designed for newcomers. The free live stream has also been upgraded, making it easier for a global audience to tune in.
New in 2026, the show will also introduce the West Coast Sport Horse Championships, offering elevated recognition for the fast-growing Sport Horse division.
Must-see events and dates
With events running nearly all day for 11 days, it helps to know what’s truly worth timing your visit around—especially if you’re dropping in for just a few hours.
One of the most immersive options is the behind-the-scenes barn tour, a guided, one-hour experience that walks guests through how horses are cared for and prepared during the show. Along the way, visitors learn about the show’s history, the Arabian breed, and what it takes to compete at this level, with opportunities to meet horses, owners, and caretakers.
For photo hunters, the grounds are full of recognizable backdrops. Popular stops include the Horses for Humanity statues, life-size painted horses created by artists to benefit charitable causes; the Wendell Bridge for sweeping views of the show; and the iconic “Greatest Horse Show on Earth” sign.
Certain competitions are also crowd favorites. Horses at Liberty classes—where horses perform loose in the arena to music—are unique to Arabian horse shows and consistently draw large audiences. Mounted Native Costume classes, featuring Bedouin-inspired attire for both horse and rider, highlight the breed’s desert heritage.
Educational programming is also part of the lineup. Legendary horseman Al Dunning will host free seminars on Feb. 17 and 18, sharing insights from more than five decades across Western disciplines.
For evening drama, the Saturday Night Championships on Feb. 21 bring finals to the Equidome, complete with opening ceremonies, a mounted shooting exhibition, the Scottsdale Slide Spectacular, and championship classes. The show concludes Sunday morning, Feb. 22, with halter championships in the Wendell Arena—crowning Champion Mare, Champion Stallion, Junior Filly, and Junior Colt in the discipline that launched the event more than seven decades ago.
Family-friendly and first-timer friendly—really
One of the biggest misconceptions about the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is that it’s only for serious horse people. In reality, some of its most popular features are designed specifically for curious newcomers.
Included with admission, visitors can take part in Meet an Arabian Horse, where guests get up close with the breed and learn what makes Arabian horses unique. There’s also the Scottsdale Ambassador Interactive Experience, a hands-on opportunity to touch, learn about, and interact with an Arabian horse in a welcoming, educational setting.
Several experiences are especially popular with families. Paint-A-Pony, included with admission, lets kids create and take home a painted ceramic horse. A free ice cream social hosted by Arizona Milk Producers takes place on Feb. 14, and Free Family Night on Friday, Feb. 20 allows free admission for all guests starting in the late afternoon.
Another underrated perk: barn access. Visitors are free to walk through the barns to see horses, trainers, and behind-the-scenes prep—something you don’t get at most sporting events.
Shopping, dining, and amenities at WestWorld
Even if you never sit in the grandstands, there’s plenty to do.
The Scottsdale Shopping Expo is a destination in its own right, with nearly 300 vendors selling everything from fine art, jewelry, and home décor to fashion, Western lifestyle brands, equine products, and Scottsdale-themed gifts.
Food options range from casual bites to more upscale fare, with plenty of shaded seating, indoor and outdoor bleacher areas, and rest zones throughout the property. WestWorld also offers ADA-accessible seating, restrooms, and pathways, making the event navigable for all ages and abilities.
Tickets, pricing, and free days
Ticketing is straightforward:
- General admission: $15
- Seniors and military: $10
- Youth 17 and under: Free
- Multi-day and reserved seating: Available online
- 11-day general admission pass: $75
There are also two standout free-admission days locals should know about:
- Tuesday, Feb. 17: Military & First Responder Appreciation Day (free admission for service members and their families with ID)
- Friday, Feb. 20: Free Family Fun Night, with free admission starting at 4:30 p.m.
VIP experiences are available by contacting the show directly.
Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online at scottsdaleshow.com.
Planning your visit
The show runs daily starting at 8 a.m. at WestWorld, located at 16601 N. Pima Road. With events spanning nearly two weeks, locals can easily plan a short visit rather than committing to a full day.
If you’re coming from out of town—or planning a staycation—Scottsdale hotels and restaurants typically book up during the show, especially on weekends.
Why it’s worth going—even once
Beyond the competition, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is about access. It’s a rare chance to experience a world-class equestrian event without needing insider knowledge, formal attire, or a big budget.
Between the interactive experiences, shopping expo, family-friendly events, and free admission days, the show has evolved into something closer to a winter festival—one that just happens to feature some of the most beautiful horses in the world.
