Shelbyville TN - Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration 2011

TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE NATIONAL CELEBRATION!

It's that time of year again!  The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration takes place at the Calsonic Arena in Shelbyvlle Aug 24 - Sept 3, 2011.  Shelbyville TN is known as The Walking Horse Capital of the World.  The charming town of Shelbvyille is located about 50 miles southeast of Nashville in Bedford County.  Residents of Shelbyville have easy access to neighboring Williamson County, Davidson County and Rutherford County.  Shelbyville is a short 20 minute drive from Murfreesboro.

According to Sperlings Best Places to Live, the population of Shelbyville is approximaely 33,363.  But for 11 days of the year this small town is booming when the population soars because of the Celebration!  People come from all over the world to attend this festival and it is estimated that 250,000 people will attend this year!  Needless to say, The Celebration is a big deal for this community and adds $40 to $50 million dollars to the local economy.  

The National Celebration is anticipated by walking horse fans all year long.   As a child growing up I was lucky enough to be raised in a rural area and have my own horse.  Most people in my community had horses or were very familiar with horses.  Horses were just a part of life.  But my neighbors raised Tennessee Walking Horses instead of the typical quarter horses.  If you've never seen a Tennessee Walking Horse, I can assure you that they are a sight to behold.  A Tennessee Walking horse is truly a magestic animal.   As a child I was always in awe of their size and regal presence.  As an adult, I can say that I am still in awe when I see a Tennessee Walking Horse in real life.  If you have never been able to see and touch a real TN Walking Horse, I encourage you to attend The Celebration.  A picture does not convey the beauty of this magnificent creation. 

More than $650,000 in awards and prices will be handed out to the winning horses!  This is the premiere event for breeders of the Tennessee Walking Horse.   During the celebration the breed's World Grand Champion and 20 other World Champions will be named.  For more information including ticket prices, pleae visit the Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration website.  It is sure to be an event you will never forget!