Rose Parade 2025: Equestfest offers pre-Jan. 1 showcase of equestrian stars
Every year, the Rose Parade’s equestrian units captivate audiences from around the world with their beauty, grace and precision. But fans don’t have to wait until New Year’s Day to see these talented riders and their magnificent horses in action.
The annual Equestfest is scheduled to return from 10 a.m to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 29, at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center. This highly anticipated event will offer attendees an up-close look at the 18 equestrian groups preparing to ride in the 136th Rose Parade, themed “Best Day Ever!”
Participants can expect thrilling performances featuring precision drills, dazzling dance routines, impressive roping skills and awe-inspiring tricks. The event also provides animal lovers of all ages opportunities to interact with a variety of horse breeds .
In addition to the equestrian showcase, this family-friendly celebration includes live music, educational and interactive exhibits, as well as a food and vendor court.
Equestrian units have been an integral part of the Rose Parade and its surrounding activities since the Tournament of Roses began in 1890. These groups complement the floats and bands as they journey down Colorado Boulevard on New Year’s Day.
In 2025, they will once again showcase their diverse talents and poise on the world stage. From square-dancing horses to award-winning cowgirls and police horses that bring joy to children in hospitals, each unit brings its own unique flair to the festivities.
Here are the Rose Parade Equestrian units (listed alphabetically)
- Arabian Horse Association Versatile Arabians–Greenwood Village, Colorado
- Blue Shadows Mounted Drill Team–Lake View Terrace, California
- Budweiser Clydesdales–St. Louis, Missouri
- First Cavalry Division, Horse Cavalry Detachment–Fort Cavazos, Texas
- International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association–Birmingham, Alabama
- Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department-Sheriff’s Museum Foundation–Los Angeles, California
- Los Hermanos Banuelos Charro Team–Altadena, California
- Mini Therapy Horses–Calabasas, California
- Northwest Spotted Drafts–Ferndale, Washington
- Painted Ladies Rodeo Performers–Sacramento, California
- Scripps Miramar Ranch–San Diego, California
- Spirit of the West Riders–Arcadia, California
- The New Buffalo Soldiers–Shadow Hills, California
- The Norco Cowgirls Rodeo Drill Team–Norco, California
- The Valley Hunt Club–Pasadena, California
- United States Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard–Barstow, California
Gates open at 10 a.m. Tickets are $25 per person, with free entry for children aged 5 and under. Parking will be available for $20 per car at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.
For more information or to purchase a ticket, please visit: https://tickets.sharpseating.com/p/tickets11/events/equestfest