What started as a way to introduce more people to the Arabian horse has grown into a nationwide program, with over 250 farms across the United States and Canada opening their barn doors to anyone interested in learning more about horses.
The Arabian Horse Association’s Discovery Farms program offers a free opportunity for individuals and families to meet Arabian horses up close and learn about the breed in a welcoming, relaxed environment. The program allows passionate horse owners and enthusiasts to share their knowledge while providing a hands-on introduction to both the Arabian and equestrian world.
“The goal of the program was to create a no pressure, no sales environment where people could come spend a day at the barn and simply get to know the Arabian horse,” said Savana Linder, Arabian Horse Association Marketing Coordinator. “We wanted to give people an opportunity to truly enjoy the horses and fall in love with them.”
Programs like Discovery Farms provide an accessible entry point for people who may not know how to get started with horses or have had little to no exposure to them before. Participation is completely free, for both the farms involved in the program and for those interested in attending.
Rusty Bar Ranch is one of the many farms helping to create an inclusive and welcoming horse community through the AHA Discovery Farms program. “The program provides a way for people to come meet our horses without the obligation or expense of booking a series of lessons,” said owner Kathy Richardson.
A typical session at the farm offers an immersive introduction to barn life. Guests begin with a tour of the property, meet each of the horses – Arabian and non-Arabian alike – and then watch an Arabian in action in the indoor arena.
“Letting the horses strut their stuff and show off allows guests to see the true beauty, athleticism, and movement of Arabians,” Richardson said. “After that, I invite them into the arena to come meet the horse face-to-face.”
Attendees are then introduced to the basics of horse safety and handling through hands-on interaction with the horses, learning how to lead, walk, and communicate with them.
"Many of our guests have never been around horses before, so they are always amazed when I have them take turns leading my Arabian around the arena,” said Richardson. “They’re surprised by how willing and gentle the horses are, happily walking beside them and matching their pace.”
Depending on the session, guests may also have the opportunity to take a short ride on one of the farm’s trusted horses. Participants learn basic riding skills such as steering, stopping, and asking the horse to move forward, all within a safe and supervised setting.
At the end of every session, guests take a ‘final picture’ to remember the experience and receive a swag bag from AHA. The bags include information about other community-based programs, along with horse-themed activities designed to help children continue exploring and growing their interest in horses.
“The Discovery Farms program gives more exposure to the world of Arabian horses and hopefully sparks enough interest for them come back for lessons, and maybe even become Arabian horse owners themselves,” said Richardson.
Get Involved
Farms interested in becoming an AHA Discovery Farm must first become members of the Arabian Horse Association before creating a profile to be featured on the program’s online directory.
Those interested in visiting a Discovery Farm and learning more about the Arabian breed can visit the AHA website, find a participating farm near them, schedule a visit, and experience a program firsthand.