The Alltech National Horse Show got off to a great start today at the Kentucky Horse Park’s Alltech Arena. The six day competition includes hunter, jumper and equitation divisions, but it’s not just about horses. In fact, there are fun family activities planned throughout the week.

Affordable Fun for the Entire Family

Daytime admission is completely free. Kids 12 and under get in free during the evening competitions as well. The show features entertainment, shopping, food and special event days, including:

Wednesday, October 31- Costume Day

5-7 p.m.: Trick or Treat at the Alltech National Horse Show with some of your favorite cartoon characters including Woody and Jessie from Toy Story, Shrek and Fiona, Cinderella and Spider-Man

Thursday, November 1- Military Day

All day: Challenge yourself at the Army Activity Area and meet local military heroes
6:30 p.m.: Lexington’s own March Madness Marching Band welcomes attendees
7 p.m.: Presentation of Colors by the Forest Hill Military Academy
8:45 p.m.: A special surprise performance from Lexington’s Mecca Live Studio

Friday, November 2 - Fit Friday

All Day: Countryside Canter 5K race packet pick up
3-7 p.m.: Free health screenings for the whole family

Saturday, November 3 - Family Fun Day

8 a.m.: Alltech Countryside Canter 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk
Pre- register online; all proceeds go to The All Glory Project.
All Day: Balloon Twister, face painting, get your picture on a pony (1-3 p.m.) and meet your favorite cartoon characters

Sunday, November 4 - ASPCA Day

1-3 p.m.: Picture on a pony, face painting
3-5 p.m.: Cartoon characters meet and greet

Tickets for Thursday, Friday and Saturday night events will be available at the door. Ticketed events include:

Thursday, Nov. 1, 2012 (7:00 PM): Admission: $20 per person

Double H Farm $75,000 International Open Jumpers – Time First Jump Off
Three Gaited Amateur Stake (Exhibition)
 Park Horse Amateur Stake
 Five Gaited Amateur Stake

Friday, Nov. 2, 2012 (7:00 PM): Admission: $20 per person

Three Gaited Championship Stake
Fine Harness Open Stake (Exhibition)
ES Roadster Cup
Five Gaited Championship Stake
Alltech National Horse Show $50,000 Puissance – Open Jumper

Saturday, Nov. 3, 2012 (7:00 PM): Admission: $30 per person

Alltech $250,000 Grand Prix
Park Horse Amateur Championship
Three Gaited Amateur Championship (Exhibition)
Five Gaited Amateur Championship

Founded in 1883 at the original Madison Square Garden, the National Horse Show is America’s oldest indoor horse show. In 2011, Alltech became the title sponsor, moving the event to Lexington, Ky., and to its new home in the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park. For more information, visit www.alltechnationalhorseshow.com.