Every February, Scottsdale, Arizona, transforms into the epicenter of the Arabian horse world as thousands of competitors, breeders, and enthusiasts gather for the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. This prestigious event is more than just a showcase of equine beauty and skill; it is a celebration of Scottsdale’s deep connection to Western culture and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Arabian breed. With its rich history, dazzling competitions, and world-class venue, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is an unforgettable experience for both seasoned equestrians and first-time visitors alike.

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We're just starting our new blog series, Western Stars. As a marketing company that focuses on web development, marketing, advertising and developing brands in Scottsdale, we thought it'd be fun to highlight and celebrate the one-of-a-kind Scottsdale brands and organizations that make up the unique DNA of Scottsdale, Arizona. We timed the launch of the series with for the Scottsdale Arabian show. We thought it made sense, given the show's importance to the history of Scottsdale's development and the obvious western connection, which is an important part of Scottsdales history. After all, it's the "West's Most Western Town." So let's saddle up and mosey out -

The Founding and Early Years

Starting in 1955, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show began  as a much smaller, mostly local event. Founded by the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona (AHAA), the event was initially held at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. What started as a modest competition with only 50 horses and only a dozen trainers, it quickly gained momentum, thanks in large part to the dedication of local breeders and Arabian horse enthusiasts.

One of the key figures in the show’s early success was Anne McCormick, a passionate Arabian horse breeder who played a crucial role in securing a permanent home for the event.

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In the 1950's McCormick donated 150 acres from her family's ranch, to provide a stable foundation for the growing competition. ("Stable" foundation? See what we did there?) McCormick's vision and generosity helped shape the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show into the world-renowned event it is today.

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As Scottsdale grew into a hub for Western equestrian culture, the Arabian horse became an integral part of the city’s identity. The show flourished, attracting larger audiences and participants from around the country. By the 1970s, it had firmly established itself as a premier event for Arabian horses, renowned for its competitive spirit and luxurious atmosphere.

Today, some of the world's most renowned Arabian horse breeders are tucked away in cactus choked corners of Scottsdale. From some of the smallest, built on acre homestead lots and the largest, where hundreds of millions of dollars have been invested, a large number of the award winning Arabians are bred and trained in Scottsdale. Many of them end up finding homes across the globe, from Europe, to Asia and the Middle East.

The Pinnacle of Arabian Horse Culture

Today, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is the largest and most prestigious Arabian horse competition in the world. Featuring more than 2,400 horses and drawing over 300,000 spectators, the event serves as a cornerstone of the Arabian horse industry. Breeders, trainers, and riders from across the globe gather to compete in a wide range of events, from traditional halter classes showcasing the breed’s stunning conformation to thrilling mounted competitions that highlight their agility and skill.

The show is more than just a competition—it is a marketplace for top-tier Arabian horses. The event often sees record-breaking sales of elite horses, with some fetching prices well into the six figures. Scottsdale’s event is also a trendsetter in Arabian horse breeding, influencing the global market and setting standards for quality and excellence.

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Competitive Events and Spectator Highlights

Visitors to the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show can expect a dynamic lineup of competitions, each showcasing different aspects of Arabian horse talent. Some of the most popular events include:

• Halter Classes – These classes judge horses based on their physical attributes, breeding potential, and overall elegance.
• Western Pleasure – Riders demonstrate the breed’s calm demeanor and smooth gaits in Western-style riding.
• Hunter Pleasure – A refined event that highlights the horse’s ability to perform in English-style riding.
• Reining and Cutting – Events that showcase the breed’s agility, intelligence, and ability to work cattle.
• Dressage – A discipline that demonstrates precision and harmony between horse and rider.
• Mounted Native Costume – One of the show’s most visually striking competitions, where horses and riders don elaborate, colorful Arabian-inspired costumes.

Beyond the competitive events, the show offers an array of attractions, including shopping expos featuring equestrian gear, fine art, and luxury goods. Visitors can also attend educational seminars, meet world-renowned breeders, and even get up close with these majestic horses in family-friendly interactive experiences.

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WestWorld - The Perfect Venue

Since moving to its current home at WestWorld of Scottsdale, the show has been able to expand its offerings and provide a state-of-the-art experience for both competitors and visitors. WestWorld is a premier equestrian and event facility that spans over 386 acres in the heart of Scottsdale. It boasts the Tony Nelssen Equestrian Center, a climate-controlled arena designed specifically for world-class equestrian events. With ample stabling facilities, spacious arenas, and modern amenities, WestWorld provides an unparalleled setting for the grandeur of the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show.Beyond equestrian events, WestWorld is a hub for Scottsdale’s cultural and entertainment scene, hosting everything from the Barrett-Jackson Car Auction to major rodeos and festivals.

WestWorld's proximity to Scottsdale’s vibrant downtown, with its array of fine dining, luxury resorts, and Western-themed attractions, makes it an ideal destination for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Arizona’s rich equestrian heritage.

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Experience the Magic of the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show

Whether you are a lifelong equestrian enthusiast or simply curious about the beauty and grace of Arabian horses, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show offers an unforgettable experience. From the stunning display of equine excellence to the warm hospitality of Scottsdale’s Western culture, the event is a must-see spectacle. As the largest and most prestigious gathering of Arabian horses in the world, it is a testament to the passion, dedication, and history that make Scottsdale the ultimate destination for Arabian horse lovers.Plan your visit, immerse yourself in the tradition, and witness firsthand why the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show remains the crown jewel of the Arabian horse world.

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Looking for tickets to the show? Family night is free, so check it out for free! Just go here -

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