Let’s be honest — horse shows are a whole vibe. You’ve got nerves, sparkles, early mornings, and a whole lot of caffeine (and that’s just the adults). Whether you’re a seasoned pro or brand new to the scene, there’s one thing that never goes out of style: good manners.
That’s right — I’m talking about horse show exhibitor etiquette. Because nothing says “class act” like a rider who knows how to show up, show out, and be kind while doing it.
Here’s your go-to guide for being a rider that staff, volunteers, and fellow competitors love to see at the in-gate.
☀️ 1. Be On Time (Yes, Even at 6 AM)
No one wants to be that rider — the one sprinting to the gate with a half-braided horse and a confused expression. Check your schedule, know your class times, and get there early. If you’re in a dressage show, ride times are set. For breed shows? Be ring-side and ready to go when they call.
Bonus: the gate crew will worship you.
🧾 2. Know What You Entered
Check your entries before the show. Make sure your horse is in the right classes. Know what those classes are. We’ve all seen someone wander into the warm up when their class is already in the ring (oops). Don’t be that person.
🙋♀️ 3. Communicate With the Gate
Can’t make it to your class? Running behind? Trainer conflict? TELL THE GATE. They’re not mind-readers. A quick heads-up helps the show run smoothly and earns you major brownie points.
🧼 4. Clean Up After Yourself
Tack rooms are not black holes. Don’t leave your wrappers, plates, or half-empty Starbucks cups behind. The same goes for the showgrounds. Pick up your manure, toss your trash, and leave it better than you found it. Let’s not see warm up arenas full of litter (and groom bags!).
🎤 5. Be Kind to the Staff (Seriously)
This should be obvious, but somehow it needs repeating: the people running the gate, announcing your number, or handing you ribbons are not your personal punching bags. Say thank you. Smile. Be polite — even if something goes wrong. They’re doing their best.
🐎 6. Respect the Warm-Up Ring
The warm-up arena is not a demolition derby. Watch where you’re going. Keep your emotions in check. No one wants to dodge a horse because someone wasn’t looking up. Also, nobody needs twenty people in the warm up to help two horses make it to the show ring.
👏 7. Cheer Each Other On
Whether it’s your barnmate nailing their ride or a stranger keeping it together on a spicy baby horse — give them a nod, a smile, or a “good ride!” Kindness is contagious (and free!).
🎯 8. Know the Rules of Your Discipline
Each breed and discipline has its own rulebook. Read it. Know it. Follow it. Asking staff to make exceptions because “you didn’t know” just makes it awkward for everyone.
✨ 9. Win (and Lose) With Grace
Celebrate your wins without gloating. Accept your losses without sulking. Ribbons are fun, but your attitude is what people remember.
🌟 Final Thoughts: Be the Exhibitor Everyone Wants Back
A little etiquette goes a long way. Be organized, be respectful, and be the kind of rider who lifts the whole show vibe.
Because at the end of the day, horse shows aren’t just about scores and ribbons — they’re about community, sportsmanship, and showing up with heart (and maybe that aforementioned snack for the gate crew).
Now go out there and sparkle — with good manners, of course. ✨🐴
Silhouette Arabians 