Saddlebreds & Smiles with Scripps Miramar Saddlebreds at EquestFest 2019
The Tournament of Roses EquestFest 2019 presented by Wells Fargo brought over 3000 spectators up close and personal with the world famous Scripps Miramar Saddlebreds. The event co-hosted by RFD-TV and our own Carson Kressley highlights each equine unit participating in the Rose Parade. The event is also aired in its entirety on RFD-TV and the Cowboy Channel on Jan. 1 at 8:30 AM EST. The American Saddlebreds took center stage of this year’s presentation as one of the longest running participants with over 34 years of appearances. This year Michele Macfarlane presented her Scripps Miramar team under the glamourous royal them of Kings and Queens. After they performed the group spent hours introducing and educating the interested spectators on the American Saddlebred that toured the barns after the demonstration.
RFD-TV Facebook Live Video of Demo (15:00)
This opportunity is not possible without the dedicated team from Scripps Miramar Saddlebreds, each year they have to continue to apply to be included in the Rose Parade. The beautiful pageantry, successful presentation and crowd appreciation of these spectacular American Saddlebreds at EquestFest is one of the many reasons our breed continues to hold a coveted place in one of the world’s most celebrated parades. We are grateful to Michele and her army of volunteers that go above and beyond to make this iconic #sharethesaddlebred event possible.
EquestFest is a presentation for all of the equestrian units participating in the Rose Parade. It serves as not only a practice run for the equine units, but also to highlights the individual units in a more up close and personal experience for the spectators. Each unit has its particular routine and can show off more of their group to the audience. All units complete a dress rehearsal on Saturday and then participate in EquestFest on Sunday. It is held at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank, California. There are equestrian vendors where people can buy Breyer horses and other items. After the final demonstration of the show, the spectators are allowed to walk through the barns to meet the equestrian units and horses, take pictures, feed treats and ask questions. It is a great way to #sharethesaddlebred and shares the experience of the whole parade process. The kids especially love the time to interact with the horses and Scripps Miramar gives great one on one time with the spectators. We stay in our costumes and display the tack and flowers so people can see everything up close.
EquestFest 2019 Behind the Saddlebred Scenes Gallery on ASHA Facebook