Park Authority

CONTACT INFORMATION: Open during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday
703-324-8700 TTY 711
12055 Government Center Pkwy.
Fairfax, Virginia 22035
Jai Cole
Executive Director

Department Resources

Saddle Up for Spring: Horse Expo Returns to Frying Pan Farm Park

horse and people

Horse lovers of all ages are invited to Frying Pan Farm Park for the Annual Horse Expo, a day dedicated to celebrating the equestrian world through demonstrations, hands-on experiences and family-friendly fun.

The event takes place Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Frying Pan Farm Park Equestrian Center. Admission is free, and parking is $10 per vehicle (on-site payment only).

This year’s Horse Expo features a special appearance by Freedom and Liberty, the Bureau of Land Management’s 250th Wild Horse and Burro ambassador team. Freedom is an 8-year-old sorrel gelding from the Salt Wells Creek Herd Management Area near Rock Springs, Wyoming, and Liberty is a 17-year-old gray gelding from the Cibola-Trigo Herd Management Area near Yuma, Arizona.

As part of BLM’s Freedom250 campaign, “Bringing Freedom and Liberty Across America,” these mustangs travel the country as living symbols of America’s public lands, helping share how wild horses and burros have shaped our nation’s history — from exploration and travel to building industries such as mining and agriculture — and why BLM manages and protects these animals for future generations.

At the Horse Expo, visitors can watch Freedom and Liberty in the Parade of Breeds at 11:30 a.m. and see a training and handling demonstration at 1 p.m. in the Indoor Arena.

Then, guests can take part in a Q&A session to learn more about the horses and BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro Program. Freedom and Liberty will also be stabled in barn one for a meet-and-greet and photo opportunities.

With more than 50 years of equestrian history, Frying Pan Farm Park offers a unique setting to explore horseback riding and learn from experienced professionals. Visitors can watch additional live demonstrations, hear from expert speakers and connect with local businesses offering horse-related products and services.

Families can enjoy food trucks, interactive activities and the popular Friends of Frying Pan Pony Ride Experience, with rides available for $10 per rider. Step into the equestrian world and enjoy demonstrations, activities and experiences designed for riders of all levels.

Frying Pan Farm Park is located at 2709 West Ox Road in Herndon. For additional information, call 703-437-9101 or visit the Frying Pan Farm Park website

Fairfax Virtual Assistant