Horse Events Premium Program
Horse Events Premium Program supports Kentucky local agricultural fairs by funding premiums and awards for approved horse shows, races, and pulling contests as part of their agricultural exhibitions.
Funder: Office of Agricultural Marketing
Due Dates: December 1, 2026 (final financial report deadline) | March 1, 2027 (state aid request) | April 1, 2027 (animal show information forms) | Fair-dependent (catalog copies and financial report)
Funding Amounts: Up to $2,000 per year in state matching funds for an approved fair
Summary: Supports premiums and awards for approved horse-related events at Kentucky local agricultural fairs.
Key Information: Each state dollar must be matched by local funds.
Description
The Horse Events Premium Program helps local agricultural fairs pay premiums and awards for approved shows, contests, and other events primarily involving horses. Covered activities include English, Western, Walking, and 4-H horse-show classes; horse racing other than harness racing; and horse, pony, or mule pulling contests. Horses shown at halter are reported separately as livestock classes.
The program is part of Kentucky’s State Aid to Local Agricultural Fairs Program, which supports local fairs and their agricultural exhibitions and educational activities. The Commissioner of Agriculture oversees state aid, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Division of Shows and Fairs administers it, and the Kentucky Fair Council advises the Commissioner.
