Golegã Horse Fair 2012
The 2012 Golegã Horse Fair will take place from 3rd -11th November 2012. Golegã , also known as ‘The Capital of the Horse’ is just 12-15minutes drive from Casa Rosden. Normally a small quiet and sleepy town, it ‘comes alive’ during this popular Annual Festival and is visited each year by thousands of tourists and horse dealers from all over the world. It has always been the main meeting and trading place for the most famous Portuguese Lusitano horses.
The Golegã National Horse Fair dates back to the 18th century, and it’s original name was São Martinho meaning Saint Martin.
The official name since the early 1970’s is “Feira Nacional do Cavalo” and today it is considered to be one the most important events of it’s kind in the beautiful Ribatejo Region of Portugal.
There are many different events held during the fair, to include a bull-run, a parade of red-waistcoated grooms, several equestrian activities, games, exhibitions and parades.
There are Dressage events, an Endurance Ride Competition, Showjumping, a Gymkana for juniors, the Portuguese Horsemanship Competition, Working Horses and much, much more. In addition there are traditional parades of riders and carriages, and a Portuguese Riding School Show.
There are also lots of stalls selling ‘horsey’ souvenirs and food stands with treats such as roasted chestnuts and barbecued chicken, washed down with the local Golegã wine which is known locally as Aqua Pé or foot water.
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