The Warburton Estate Agents Scone Horse Festival has announced its 2026 theme, Breeding Brilliance, reflecting the region’s ongoing pursuit of excellence – from breeding champion horses to cultivating world-class equine excellence and building a thriving, connected community.
Fresh off the excitement of the Kosciusko and the Big Dance, where Scone connections once again featured strongly in the state and national spotlight, the community is turning its focus to a celebration of local brilliance.
Festival President Jason Hill said the 2026 theme, Breeding Brilliance, reflects Scone’s unique position as the Horse Capital of Australia and its commitment to excellence in every part of the equine industry.
“This year’s theme is about celebrating the skill, passion and dedication that drives our equine community, from world-class breeding and racing success to the vibrant spirit connecting our town.
“Scone is the birthplace of over 50% of Australia’s Thoroughbred racehorses, with leading local studs such as Godolphin and Arrowfield producing world-class bloodlines that dominate tracks across Australia and beyond.
“Our horses and people are known for their excellence, resilience and passion. Breeding Brilliance is a fitting tribute to the champions, both equine and human, that make Scone a world-class equine hub. Together, we’re breeding a brilliant equine industry, a brilliant community and a brilliant legacy for the future,” Mr Hill said.
The announcement comes as the festival prepares to celebrate its 46th year in 2026.
The 10 day event will return from May 8-17 with exciting and entertaining equine events showcasing the versatility of the horse and the important role they play within the Upper Hunter region.
Highlights will include the Scone Equine Hospital Horse Festival Parade, which will showcase the diversity of local breeds and brilliant equine pursuits of our community, the Horses & High Tea, stud tours, yarns night, farrier demonstrations, finale fireworks and the two-day Darley Scone Cup Carnival.
Upper Hunter Shire Council Mayor, Maurice Collison, said that while the region is renowned for its equine success, the festival is about far more, as reflected in the 2026 theme.
“The Scone Horse Festival celebrates the incredible achievements of our equine industry, but it also brings our community together like nothing else. It shines a spotlight on the diversity of breeds in the region, from thoroughbreds and stock horses to dressage stars, polo ponies, and draught horses.
“It is a festival that celebrates who we are, what we value and what we continue to build. Breeding Brilliance is about more than horses. It’s about growing brilliant communities, culture and connections that will carry Scone forward for generations,” Mayor Collison said.
Naming Rights Sponsors Sarah Lorden and Sandy Warburton of Warburton Estate Agents said the festival plays a vital role in breeding a strong, connected community while showcasing Scone and the Upper Hunter region.
“Each year, the Scone Horse Festival attracts 10,000 visitors from across Australia, highlighting not only our world-class equine industry but also the incredible lifestyle our region offers – from excellent schools and thriving local businesses to warm, welcoming communities and an invested council.
“The festival helps strengthen community connections, supports local enterprises and raises Scone’s national profile, making it a place where people want to live, work and invest.
“At Warburton’s we’re honoured to be Naming Rights Sponsor once again of this brilliant festival which is held on behalf a community breeding brilliance,” they said.