For horse and equestrian lovers, there aren't many events on beyond the races. But here is one that is age and interest appropriate for the whole family. The annual Baroque Horse Festival will take place at Kryal Castle in Ballarat from Saturday 18th February to Sunday 19th February.
Horse lovers can see Baroque horse breeds dating back to the late 16th and early 18th century, including Andalusians, Lusitanos, Warlanders and Friesians.Spectacular performances in the Championship Arena running non-stop all weekend.
Talented equestrians will show off their bow and arrow skills while riding in Horse Archery. There's the Baroque Horsemanship Challenge where the horse and rider will perform a display of tricky patterns and maneuvers, working together to maintain elegance and ease.
At midday, you can admire the Spanish-hooved beauties, in a Grand Parade showcasing all of the horses and riders. See a variety of Baroque breeds and traditional costumes. Meet these lovely fillies up close. There will be a traditional Garrocha Display where the rider skillfully uses a long pole to guide their horse during the performance.
Then there is the fast-paced Barrel Race followed by an impressive Fresian In Hand Display and Cavaliero Display. Take in the beauty of the elegant movements and stunning traditional costumes of these performances.
See the beautiful dance of the Pas De Deux as these creatures weave across their outdoor ballroom! For the Last Ride of the Day, meet the talented festival riders and their loyal steeds. The steads will enjoy a pat and riders will be happy to answer questions.
Even if the events don't keep all family members enthralled all day there is plenty of other family-friendly activities in the castle grounds. Explore the Baroque Market Stalls and enjoy the Spanish Flamenco Band.
Test your medieval skills with Archery and Axe Throwing, while young ones can head to Maypole Dancing, Rock Painting and Face Painting.
Kryal Castle's well-loved Knights and Wizards Schools will also be running, as well as photo opportunities with the quirky characters roaming the castle grounds.
The Baroque Feast on the Saturday evening will include a delicious three-course meal and a variety of medieval and Baroque-style entertainment. Tables will strain with platters filled with roasted meats, vegetables, bread, fruit, cheeses and soup!
Dining is in the spectacular Abbey Tavern. Drinks are available for purchase at the bar including specials on mulled wine, mead, cider, spirits, wines & beers.
The Medieval Feast includes some sport for your enjoyment – a sword fight between the bravest knights.
Quit horsing around and book your tickets.
Bookings: Use the code HORSE10 for 10% off when prebooking.
Baroque Horse Festival:
Opening Hours: 10am – 4pm
Tickets:
- Adult (16 ) $36
- Child (Ages 3 – 15) $24
- Concession $30
- Companion $0
- Infant (Ages 0 – 2) $0
- Family of 4 (2 adults 2 children) $104
- Family 2-Day Pass (2 Adults 2 Children) $156
- Single Parent Family (1 Adult 3 Children) $85
- Single Parent Family 2-Day Pass (1 Adult 3 Children) $133.50
- Single Parent Family (1 Adult 2 Children) $75
- Single Parent Family 2-Day Pass (1 Adult 2 Children) $133.50
To book the medieval feast -
Baroque Feast:
