Saturday, September 19, 2026
Experience The Wild Horse Sanctuary
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Free Community Event
For one special day, we invite you to experience a place where wild horses and burros live naturally across more than 5,000 acres of Northern California landscape. Walk the Sanctuary, meet the herd, enjoy live demonstrations and entertainment, and discover nearly 50 years of Wild Horse Sanctuary history.
A PLACE UNLIKE ANY OTHER
See Wild Horses Living Wild
Unlike a zoo or traditional rescue facility, The Wild Horse Sanctuary is home to wild horses and burros living together across more than 5,000 protected acres. Here, they roam freely in family bands, just as nature intended.
Our annual Open House offers a rare opportunity to step inside the Sanctuary, experience its remarkable landscape, meet the herd, and learn how nearly five decades of conservation have created the nation's oldest and most respected wild horse sanctuaries.
A RARE OPPORTUNITY
One Day. One Sanctuary. Countless Experiences.
Open House is the only day each year when the public is invited to experience The Wild Horse Sanctuary through a full day of activities, demonstrations, entertainment, and guided exploration. Whether you're passionate about horses, conservation, or simply looking for a memorable family outing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Wander the Sanctuary at your own pace, meet the people who care for the herd, learn about nearly five decades of protecting America's wild horses and burros, and discover why thousands of visitors continue to return year after year.
EXPERIENCE THE DAY
Something for Everyone
Spend the day exploring the Sanctuary through experiences that bring you closer to the horses, the land, and the people behind the mission.
Guided Walking Tours
Walk the Sanctuary with knowledgeable guides and learn more about the herd, the land, and the nearly 50-year history of The Wild Horse Sanctuary.
Live Demonstrations
Enjoy educational demonstrations throughout the day, including barefoot trimming, saddle demonstrations, and working farm dog demonstrations.
Music, Food & Local Vendors
Enjoy live music, food, local vendors, Sanctuary merchandise, and plenty of time to relax and take in the surroundings.
Family Activities
Hands-on activities, raffles, crafts, and opportunities to meet the mustangs make the day memorable for visitors of all ages.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2026
Plan Your Day at the Sanctuary
Build your day around guided walking tours, demonstrations, live music, food, vendors, and time to explore the Sanctuary at your own pace.
11:00 AM
Open House Begins
Begin exploring the Sanctuary, visit vendors, enjoy food and live music, browse the Sanctuary Store, and settle in for the day.
11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Guided Walking Tours
Tours depart every 30 minutes from the Information Booth.
12:30 PM & 2:00 PM
Farm Dog Demonstration
Featuring Patti Wells & The Haystack Hunters.
1:00 PM & 3:00 PM
Saddle Demonstration
1:30 PM
Barefoot Trimming
Presented by Lisa Bishop.
BRUCE BARRON MEMORIAL STAGE
Live Music
11:00 AM The Mountain Messengers
12:00 PM The B-Strings
1:00 PM Patti Lym & Company
3:00 PM Chase Bishop
THROUGHOUT THE DAY
Meet the Mustangs • Kids' Crafts • Food & Refreshments • Local Vendors • Sanctuary Store • Sponsor a Wild Horse or Burro
Schedule subject to change.
WITH GRATITUDE
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Our 2026 Open House is made possible through the generosity of businesses and community partners who believe in the mission of The Wild Horse Sanctuary. We are proud to recognize the organizations helping make this year's event possible.
Trailblazer Partners
Community Partner
Axner Excavating
HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Become a Sponsor
Sponsoring the Wild Horse Sanctuary Open House is more than supporting a community event—it's an investment in the lifelong care and protection of America's wild horses and burros. Your partnership helps create an unforgettable experience for thousands of visitors while advancing the Sanctuary's mission.
Sponsors receive meaningful recognition before, during, and after the event through our website, printed program, event signage, and promotional materials based on sponsorship level.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Before You Go
Here are answers to some of the questions we receive most often about Open House. If you have additional questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Is the Open House free?
Yes. Admission to the 2026 Wild Horse Sanctuary Open House is completely free thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and supporters.
Do I need to register?
No registration is required. Simply arrive during event hours and enjoy the day.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Friendly dogs are welcome on a leash. Please remember that the Sanctuary is an active ranch and always keep your dog under control.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Dress for the weather and remember that portions of the event take place on natural terrain.
Will food be available?
Yes. Food vendors will be available throughout the day with a variety of options for visitors.
Can I support the Sanctuary if I can't attend?
Absolutely. Donations, horse sponsorships, volunteer support, and sharing our mission all help provide lifelong care for the horses and burros of The Wild Horse Sanctuary.
WE'LL SEE YOU SOON
We Can't Wait to Welcome You
Every visit supports Wild Horse Sanctuary's mission of protecting America's wild horses and burros while preserving a place where they can live freely for generations to come.
Wild Horse Sanctuary
5796 Wilson Hill Road
Shingletown, CA 96088
(530) 474-5770