In just one month, the historic town of Scone will come alive as the 2026 Warburton Estate Agents Scone Horse Festival returns from 8 to 17 May, with preparations charging ahead across the Upper Hunter.
Festival President, Jason Hill, said the community is ready to ride into one of its biggest celebrations yet.
“You can feel it building everywhere. There’s pride, energy, community spirit and a real buzz across the region as we head into the final month of preparations,” Jason said. “The festival is full steam ahead and the community is ready to put on a fantastic 10 days. This year’s theme, Breeding Brilliance, reflects the region’s ongoing pursuit of excellence – from breeding champion horses to cultivating world-class equine excellence and building a thriving, connected community.”
Now in its 46th year, the festival continues to showcase the strength, resilience and passion of a community that has proudly carried the event through decades of growth, change and challenge – from its early beginnings in 1980 to navigating COVID.
With cost of living and fuel pressures front of mind, this year’s program delivers a strong line-up of free, family-friendly events, many located close to Scone CBD at White Park and along Kelly Street.
Mr Hill said the accessibility of these events is a key part of what makes the festival so special.
“We know people are being more mindful of costs, especially when it comes to travel, which is why it’s so important that we continue to offer high-quality, free events right in the heart of town,” he said. “You can come along, bring the family and experience a full day of entertainment, education and community spirit without spending a cent. That’s something we’re really proud of, and something we must thank your amazing volunteers and sponsons for.”
Saturday 9 May will be a major highlight, with a full day of free events including the Scone Equine Hospital Horse Festival Parade, Equine Podiatry and Lameness Centre Farrier Competition, Team Thoroughbred NSW Training Academy Equine Extravaganza, Scone Grammar School Fete & Markets and the Scone Arts and Crafts Members Exhibition.
Sunday 17 May will round out the festival with a spectacular free family afternoon at Lake Glenbawn, featuring the AGL Picnic by the Lake, live music, dancing, amusement, community food stalls and the JBS Finale Fireworks grand display lighting up the sky.
While many events are free, a number of special experiences across the 10 days are now open for bookings and expected to fill quickly.
Among them is the Sparke Helmore Lawyers Horses and High Tea at Gwandalan Stables, the HTBA Thoroughbred Stud Tour, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at leading breeding operations; the Ladbrokes Golf Day and Sportsman’s Lunch which will welcome back Melbourne Cup legends Jimmy ‘The Pumper’ Cassidy and Glen Boss, the Magic Millions Ladies Luncheon bringing together women in racing, business and leadership; and the 80th anniversary celebrations of the Scone Racing Carnival.
Scone is proudly recognised as the Horse Capital of Australia and is the birthplace of over 50% of Australia’s Thoroughbred racehorses, with the Hunter region internationally renowned as a champion breeding ground, recognised alongside Kentucky and Ireland. The festival showcases the versatility of the horse and the important role they play within the Upper Hunter region and around the world, as well as paying homage to all breeds and equine skills and the people who breed and work with them.
For more information, tickets and the full program, visit sconehorsefestival.com.au, follow the Scone Horse Festival on Facebook or email hello@sconehorsefestival.com.au.
