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Midwest Horse Fair will kick off on Friday, April 17, 2026 with our first ever Youth Day!
The horse-human bond is unlike any other — a partnership built on trust, communication, and respect. For youth, especially, time spent around horses nurtures confidence, empathy, and responsibility.
Studies have shown that working with horses can improve emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, and encourage teamwork and leadership skills. These are not just lessons in horsemanship — they are lessons for life.
At the Midwest Horse Fair, we believe every young person deserves the chance to experience the transformative power of horses and will have special programming for youth throughout the day on Friday including Chris Cox - Leadership through horses presentation, FFA State Horse Evaluation CDE, Equine Career Exploration feature and more.
Youth Day Features
Friday April 17, 2026
Leadership through Horsemanship with Chris Cox
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! The Midwest Horse Fair is proud to present Chris Cox and his powerful Lead Changes Youth Leadership Program.
Chris isn’t just another clinician—he’s a legend in the horse world with a popular equine TV show on RFD-TV!
Raised on a cattle ranch in Australia with only horses as transportation, Chris built his life around the values of grit, respect, and horsemanship. Today, he’s internationally recognized for his no-nonsense, practical approach that inspires riders and leaders across every discipline.
Lead Changes is a youth leadership program where you learn from Chris firsthand—with horses, physical work, and the great outdoors - building confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills that will stay with you far beyond the arena. The Lead Changes program offers leadership programs, including horsemanship skills, for ages 12 - 17 years old. Youth come from rural communities to inner-city neighborhoods with diverse economic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to grow, lead, and be inspired by one of the greatest horsemen of our time!
Click here to learn more about Chris Cox.
Wisconsin FFA Horse Evaluation CDE
- Join us to watch and learn as the Top 25 FFA teams in Wisconsin compete for the opportunity to advance to the National FFA Horse Evaluation CDE held at the National FFA Convention.
- For more info click here
Equine Career Exploration
- Career Exploration including Panel discussions with career and college professionals, presentations by Dr. Karin Bump, one-on-one conversations, and "Careers in the Industry" scavenger hunt.
- For more info click here
Why Bring Your Students on an Unforgettable Field Trip to Midwest Horse Fair?
Inspire Curiosity. Spark Learning. Make It a Day to Remember.
Educational Opportunities Give your students a unique learning experience outside the classroom!
- Attend clinics and lectures led by expert clinicians and equine industry professionals.
- Discover over 35 horse breeds and disciplines—a fascinating look into the diversity and beauty of the horse world.
- For younger students, our Kids Korral offers interactive, hands-on activities focused on horse anatomy, tack, grooming, and more.
Immersive Experiences It’s more than a field trip—it’s a full-sensory adventure into the world of horses.
- Explore 400+ vendors and connect with professionals across the equine industry.
- Get up close and personal with horses in our pavilions—meet the owners, ask questions, and learn firsthand.
- Take a carriage ride around the grounds (available for an additional fee).
- For younger students, add even more fun with pony rides and a petting zoo (available for an additional fee).
Perfect for:
- Elementary, Middle, High School, and College Students
- Agricultural and Animal Science Programs
- Career Exploration in Veterinary or Equine Fields
Curriculum:
- Careers in the industry scavenger hunt
- Coming soon...Youth Day schedule
