So far, there hasn’t been an official horse day at the New York State Fair, but the graceful, four-legged beauties are ever-present as participants in the International Horse Show with various events scheduled daily in the Coliseum. They no doubt rival cows as fans favorites when it comes to livestock.
Although hundreds of horses make Fair appearances, it can be difficult to get a close-up visit with horses on the grounds. Like many equine fans, State Fair Hound always tries to get into the main horse barn, but it’s usually closed to the general public, we’re told due to liability concerns.
One effective workaround on this restriction is to make a trip to the 4-H stables and show rings at the western end of the grounds. There seems to be a less restricted, more visitor-friendly vibe there, so horse fans can get some good photos and an occasional pat on the neck as a reward for making the trek.
The youthful riders bring great enthusiasm and commitment to their competition, so the 4-H area is an all-around positive experience. 
Visitors can view events from ringside bleachers or stroll the grounds and stables to get their horse-viewing fix. Mini horses are irresistibly adorable, their appearance schedule listed on the Fair’s livestock exhibition page.
The covered exercise ring next to the Coliseum and the corral just west of the horse barn also provide close-up views as the horses are led in from nearby stalls, allowing the equine paparazzi some access. 
Arriving early on any day of the Fair will offer opportunities to observe ranchers and handlers walking their steeds around the grounds, bathing them at one of the specially-designed pads or exercising them in the cool of the morning.
New this year, horse enthusiasts will have a chance to learn about the lives and needs of horses at the World of Horses exhibit presented in cooperation with SaddleUpNY. World of Horses will provide training and education on everything from how to keep a horse as a pet, to the knowledge needed for competitions, to what it looks like for horses to engage in police work as well as next career options for retired race horses. Additionally, the exhibit features information on how to get involved with horses including options for college degrees, career fields, and riding programs. 
World of Horses takes place in the barn along Sioux Avenue near Gate 4 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily, and from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Labor Day with clinics, demonstrations and meet the horse sessions scheduled regularly.
The International Horse Show includes many thrilling events, so be sure to check the Fair schedule and pull up a bleacher seat in the Coliseum for one or two.
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