Camelot-Costumed Horse Riders to Cavort in Woodside

Envision a noble lad galloping down a tree-lined trail on a valiant steed.  Now picture him in Arthurian costume and give him a posse.  

This isn’t something out of a fable.  This is what will be taking place this Saturday, October 13, during the Woodside Day of The Horse event.

The Woodside-area Horse Owners Association (WHOA!) is hosting the event to give people a chance to learn what horses contribute to the culture of Woodside, said event co-founder Donna Poy.  

“Woodside offers a slice of rural America right in the heart of Silicon Valley, and the horse and the zealous protection of its habitat by resident horse owners is essentially responsible for that.  The Day of the Horse is a celebration each year of the area’s profound connection to the horse, and a reminder of what we could lose if its not actively protected,” Poy said.

 “It’s also just plain fun,” Poy added.

This is the eighth annual event that the nonprofit organization has thrown.  Last year it drew more than 300 hundred riders from all over the Bay Area; some came from as far as Southern California to participate. The theme this year is “Camelot.”

Admission to the event is free. The Trail Ride, which takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., costs $50 if you register in advance. It costs $75 at the door.

Proceeds from the event in excess of $85,000 go to trail renovation, county parks, and regional equestrian activities for children.  

Festivities begin at 9:45 with a blessing of the horse at the Mounted Patrol Grounds.

Here is the Woodside Day of The Horse Event Schedule:

Blessing of the Horse at the Mounted Patrol Grounds

9:45 a.m., 2:15 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Horse Fair at Woodside Town Hall

10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

Information tables, Educational Exhibits, Activity Stations,
WHOA! Outfitters and Gifts

Wells Fargo Stage Coach Rides leave from Woodside Town Hall

10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Puppet Show

11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Progressive Trail Ride

11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Sponsor Exhibits - at the Mounted Patrol Grounds

12:15 to 3:45 p.m.

Prize Distribution for Riders at the Mounted Patrol Grounds

1:00 to 4:00 p.m.