Midwest Horse Fair celebrates 45 years with new 'Thrill of the Drill' competition

The annual event in Madison, Wisconsin drew 60,000 attendees and featured synchronized equestrian routines for a cash prize.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 3:50am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the fluid, synchronized movements of an equestrian drill team performing at a horse fair, with no recognizable faces or logos.The debut 'Thrill of the Drill' competition at the Midwest Horse Fair showcased the dynamic partnership between horse and rider.Madison Today

The 45th annual Midwest Horse Fair, the largest horse fair in the United States, returned to Madison, Wisconsin this past weekend. The event featured a new highlight - the debut 'Thrill of the Drill' competition, where 10 elite equestrian drill teams competed in synchronized routines for a $3,500 cash prize. The fair also introduced Youth Day on Friday and continued to draw large crowds to the Alliant Energy Center and Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Why it matters

The Midwest Horse Fair is a major annual event that brings an estimated $11 million in economic impact to the Madison area through visitor spending. The new 'Thrill of the Drill' competition showcased the special bond between horse and rider, while also engaging the next generation of equestrians through the new Youth Day programming.

The details

The 'Thrill of the Drill' competition featured 10 elite equestrian drill teams performing synchronized routines in front of a live audience. Scoring was determined by a panel of judges, with the winning team receiving a $3,500 cash prize. Among the competitors were the Outlaw Cowgirls from southwest Ohio. In addition to the new drill competition, the 2026 fair also introduced Youth Day on Friday and continued to feature crowd favorites like the rodeo, Kids Corral activities, and Stallion Avenue.

  • The Midwest Horse Fair returned to Madison for its 45th year in 2026.
  • The 'Thrill of the Drill' competition debuted at the 2026 Midwest Horse Fair.
  • The 2026 Midwest Horse Fair took place over the weekend of April 18-20.

The players

Midwest Horse Fair

The largest horse fair in the United States, held annually in Madison, Wisconsin.

Teri Giannetti

The executive director of the Midwest Horse Fair.

Outlaw Cowgirls

An elite equestrian drill team from southwest Ohio that competed in the 'Thrill of the Drill' competition.

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What they’re saying

“The drill teams really highlight a special relationship between horse and rider, and they practice all year together.”

— Teri Giannetti, Executive Director, Midwest Horse Fair

“We welcomed the chance to take on new competition while showcasing our diverse lineup of riders and horses.”

— Member of Outlaw Cowgirls

What’s next

Organizers hope the 'Thrill of the Drill' competition will become a long-term tradition at the Midwest Horse Fair.

The takeaway

The 45th annual Midwest Horse Fair demonstrated the event's continued growth and ability to adapt, introducing new programming like the 'Thrill of the Drill' competition while maintaining its status as a must-attend event for horse enthusiasts across the Midwest.