We’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of equine enthusiasts and world-class competitors and vendors from across the nation to Harrisburg for the annual PA National Horse Show October 9-19 at the PA Farm Show Complex & Expo Center!
Can't Miss Events at the Horse Show
Free Family Fun Day at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show | Saturday, October 11, 2025 | 1-4 p.m.
A FREE afternoon of family fun! PNHS Family Fun Day activities include face painting, wagon rides, arts and crafts, goat snuggling, behind-the-scenes tours, a scavenger hunt, horse meet and greets and more – all at no cost.
Team Night at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show | Friday, October 17, 2025 | 6 p.m.
Sports teams, 4-H clubs, scout troops and group of any kind are invited to vie for prizes. This special night will feature the $30,000 Commonwealth Classic, with horses and riders facing off over jumps nearly 5’ tall! Your group can join in the fun by competing for prizes in the following categories:
Largest Equestrian Group, Largest Non-Equestrian Group, Best Team Spirit, Group That Travelled the Furthest
Grand Prix Night at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show | Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 6 p.m.
The $100,000 Grand Prix de Penn National is the grand finale of the show jumping competition. Spectators are invited to watch as the biggest names in equestrian sport face off over fences set at nearly 5’ tall. Plus, see performances from Double Dan Horsemanship and autograph signings after the competition!
Things to Do Outside of the Show
While the competition inside the Farm Show Complex is the main attraction, the Hershey & Harrisburg Region offers plenty of ways for guests to fill time outside the show. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or treat yourself, here are some can’t-miss experiences just minutes away.
Explore the Capital City
Take a free guided tour of the stunning PA State Capitol Building. Teddy Roosevelt called it the “handsomest building” he’d ever seen. On the grounds in front of the building, find a 29-foot-tall equestrian statue featuring John F. Hartranft, Civil War general and two-term Pennsylvania governor.
Visit the State Museum of Pennsylvania to learn about the state’s rich cultural, natural, and industrial history. Discover murals and historic architecture in the Harrisburg Arts District. You can download the free mobile help to help plan your visit.
Find a new favorite restaurant. Check out The Millworks for a menu filled with seasonal themes and local ingredients. Enjoy fine dining at 1700 Degree Steakhouse. Thursday through Saturday, head to Broad Street Market to find a variety of local vendors and flavors. Find a complete list of restaurants.
Indulge in Hershey’s Sweet Side
Visit Hershey’s Chocolate World for sweet treats and sweet activities. Take the free chocolate tour ride, create your own candy bar, or sample decadent sweets before heading back to the show. Spend time at The Hershey Story Museum to learn about the incredible legacy of Milton Hershey. Mr. Hershey was more than a chocolatier. He was a visionary community builder and a thoughtful philanthropist.
Sip & Socialize
Relax with a local pour. Download the free Brew Barons Beer Trail mobile app to find a local craft brewery. You can accumulate check-ins to earn prizes. Wine lovers, consider heading to Cassel Vineyards of Hershey. The wine is delicious, but we think you’ll also love the chance to see beautiful horses grazing in the adjacent field.
Stretch Your Legs
Head to Wildwood Park for peaceful trails, birdwatching, and a chance to recharge in nature. At Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art, horseback riding is permitted on the Rail Trail and Berry’s Mountain Trail. You can find more trails and outdoor experiences on the Hershey Harrisburg Adventure Trail.
Looking for more things to do? Check out our Hershey Harrisburg Fall Bucket List. See you soon!
