Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day – York, October 31 2024 : A Spooktacular Event for All Ages

The Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day is a one-of-a-kind event happening on 31st October 2024 at Askham Bryan College in York. Hosted by Hobby Horse Adventures, the event offers a day packed with festive fun, exciting competitions, and plenty of Halloween spirit for hobby horse enthusiasts of all ages. 

Whether you’re a seasoned hobby horse rider or a complete beginner, this event is all about embracing creativity, enjoying the outdoors, and getting into the spooky season.

Participants can expect a range of exciting activities, from themed competitions to obstacle courses, all set within the picturesque grounds of Askham Bryan College. Spectators are welcome to enjoy the festivities for free, and there’s plenty for families to do, including visiting the on-site café and wildlife park. The event promises an enjoyable day out for everyone involved, with fantastic opportunities to celebrate the hobby horse community and the Halloween season.

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Key Takeaways

• Event Date & Venue: The Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day takes place on 31st October 2024 at Askham Bryan College, York, starting at 9:30 AM.
• Activities & Competitions: Two main rings will feature Halloween-themed costume competitions, obstacle courses, dressage, jumping events, and speed challenges for all skill levels.
• Inclusive Participation: The event is open to all ages and abilities, including beginners and neurodiverse individuals. Spectators are welcome free of charge.
• Pre-Booking Required: Participants must register for classes online by 30th October 2024, with pricing starting at £10 for one class.
• Family Fun & Amenities: Families can enjoy the on-site café, Wildlife and Conservation Park, and stalls selling hobby horse products and accessories.

Event Details

The Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day will take place on Thursday, 31st October 2024 at Askham Bryan College, York (YO23 3FR). The fun begins at 9:30 am with check-in, rider number collection, and warm-ups. Please use the what3words address: ///vibes.soil.edge for accurate navigation to the venue, where a large horse trailer hard-standing parking area is available.

Participants must register for classes online, with entries closing on 30th October 2024. The event is designed to be inclusive, with beginners and neurodiverse individuals welcome to join in the fun. There is no charge for spectators, so families and friends can cheer on participants throughout the day.

The event will be spread across two main rings, each hosting a variety of themed competitions and activities. Ring 1 will feature costume competitions, obstacle courses, and dressage to spooky Halloween music, while Ring 2 will focus on jumping events and speed-based challenges. The competitions cater to all skill levels, ensuring that everyone can find an activity suited to their abilities and interests.

A key highlight of the event is the stalls offering hobby horses, jumps, and accessories, with the option to pre-book online via hobby-horses.co.uk. Pre-booking ensures availability on the day and allows participants to have delivery costs deducted.

Ring 1 Activities

The activities in Ring 1 are designed for maximum fun and encourage creativity, teamwork, and a touch of competitive spirit. Below is a detailed breakdown of what to expect throughout the day:

• Class 1 (10:00 am): Halloween Hobby Horse Costume Competition
  Riders are encouraged to get creative with their attire! Dress up yourself and your hobby horse in spooky, fun, and imaginative Halloween-themed costumes. The best-dressed participants will be recognised for their efforts, so don’t be shy – the more eye-catching, the better!

• Class 2 (11:00 am): Bending / Apple Bobbing / Obstacle Course
  A fun team activity designed to test your skills, balance, and agility. The obstacle course will have various challenges to navigate, including apple bobbing for added fun. This is a fantastic opportunity for all ages to come together in a light-hearted competition.

• Class 3 (12:00 pm): Barrel Racing
  For those who enjoy a bit of speed, barrel racing will get hearts pumping. Riders navigate a pattern around barrels as quickly as possible, aiming to finish the course in the fastest time. Barrel racing is always a crowd-pleaser and a great test of skill.

• Class 4 (1:00 pm): Scurrying
  This event involves racing in pairs around a course filled with obstacles. Scurrying is all about working with a partner to navigate the course as fast as possible while avoiding any mishaps. It’s an exhilarating experience and encourages teamwork.

• Class 5 (2:00 pm): Dressage to Halloween Music
  Put on your best performance to a backdrop of spooky Halloween tunes! Dressage is an opportunity to showcase grace, rhythm, and style, with routines specially choreographed to fit the seasonal theme. Costumes and creativity are encouraged.

These activities are perfect for hobby horse enthusiasts who want to showcase their riding skills, enjoy friendly competition, and celebrate the Halloween season in style.

Ring 2 Activities

Ring 2 focuses on jumping and speed challenges, catering to those who enjoy testing their hobby horse abilities. Here’s a detailed look at each activity:

• Class 6 (10:00 am): Show Jumping Clear Round
  Riders of any skill level can participate in this timed event. The goal is to jump clear rounds over a series of obstacles, with no penalties for knockdowns. Participants can choose any height for their jumps, making it inclusive for all ages.

• Class 7 (11:30 am): Accumulator
  A points-based jumping competition where riders accumulate points for successfully clearing obstacles. The more difficult the obstacle, the higher the points earned. It’s a test of strategy and skill, and perfect for those who love a challenge.

• Class 8 (12:00 pm): Six Bar
  This event consists of a series of six jumps that gradually increase in height. Riders aim to clear all six jumps successfully. This competition is thrilling for both participants and spectators as the jumps get progressively higher.

• Class 9 (1:00 pm): Grand National
  Inspired by the famous horse race, this event is all about speed. Participants will race each other over a series of obstacles, aiming to finish the course in the fastest time. It’s a great way to experience the excitement of hobby horse racing.

• Class 10 (2:00 pm): Chase Me Charlie
  An elimination jumping competition where the height of the obstacle increases after each successful round. The last rider left who clears the final height wins the competition. It’s a fantastic spectacle and a real test of jumping prowess.

Ring 2’s activities are ideal for those who enjoy the thrill of jumping and racing, offering a variety of challenges to suit all skill levels.

Participation Details & Booking

Participants are encouraged to book their classes online in advance. The pricing is as follows:

• 1 class: £10
• 2 classes: £20
• 3 classes: £30
• 4 classes: £35
• 5 classes: £45
• Additional classes: £10 each

With such varied activities on offer, participants can choose the classes that suit their interests and skills. All bookings close on 30th October 2024.

For those looking to gear up for the event, there will be an opportunity to buy or rent hobby horses and accessories at the event. To ensure availability, pre-booking via hobby-horses.co.uk is recommended. You can have delivery costs deducted by emailing info@hobby-horses.co.uk.

Participants are required to fill out a registration form that includes details like the competitor’s first name, family name, age, emergency contact number, and any special requirements. A “Loan Pony” option is available for those without their own hobby horse.

Event Highlights & Amenities

Spectators can enjoy a range of amenities throughout the event. The onsite café will be open, offering a selection of refreshments to keep everyone energised throughout the day.

Families are encouraged to explore the Wildlife and Conservation Park, providing an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of Askham Bryan College.

The event will also feature stalls selling hobby horse products and accessories. Various brands will be available, giving participants and spectators a chance to browse and purchase hobby horses, jumps, and other accessories. Pre-booking online ensures the items you need will be available on the day.

Safety & Rules

Safety is a top priority at the Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day. The event is parentally supervised, with trained staff ensuring that all activities run smoothly. A trained first aider will be on-site throughout the day, along with a safeguarding lead who holds an enhanced DBS certification.

Please note that dogs are not permitted at the event, to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants and spectators.

Hobby Horse Adventures provides a fun and safe environment for all, but it is a parentally supervised event. While the activities are organised by Hobby Horse Adventures, participants and their guardians are responsible for their own safety, and the organisers accept no liability for accidents or thefts.

How to Prepare for the Event

Preparing for the Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day is simple and fun! Here are a few tips to make the most of your day:

• Costume Ideas: Think spooky, creative, and fun! Matching costumes for both rider and hobby horse are always a hit.

• Practice Tips: If it’s your first time hobby horsing, try practising basic movements and balance. A few sessions in your garden or local park can help build confidence.

• Dress Code & Safety Gear: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and proper footwear to ensure you can move freely and safely. Consider adding knee pads or a helmet for added protection, especially for jumping activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the event suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is open to all levels, including complete beginners and neurodiverse participants. Each class is designed to be fun and inclusive.

Can I bring my own hobby horse?

Certainly! You are welcome to bring your own hobby horse. However, you can also purchase or rent one from the stalls available on the day.

What happens if it rains on the event day?

The Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day will go on regardless of the weather. Participants should dress accordingly, and activities will be adjusted for safety as needed.

Are food and drinks available at the event?

Yes, there is an onsite café for refreshments throughout the day.

Are there any age restrictions for participants?

The event welcomes all ages and abilities, ensuring a fun experience for everyone from young children to teens.

Can spectators join the activities?

Spectators are free to attend and enjoy the event, but only registered competitors can participate in the classes.

Schedule Overview and Pricing

Conclusion: Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day York

The Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day is set to be a thrilling event full of spooky fun and lively competitions. Taking place in the heart of York at Askham Bryan College, it’s an unmissable day out for hobby horse enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to celebrate Halloween in a unique way. With an inclusive range of activities and classes catering to all ages and abilities, there is something for everyone to enjoy – from thrilling races to costume parades and more.

Remember to book your classes in advance to ensure your spot, as spaces are limited and will close on 30th October 2024. Get ready to don your Halloween costumes, decorate your hobby horse, and join us for a day of excitement, creativity, and fun at the Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day.

For more details and to book your place, visit Hobby Horse Adventures.

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Get ready for the Halloween Hobby Horse Fun Day and explore high-quality hobby horses and jumps, or browse upcoming events to join the fun!