National Ride Your Horse to a Bar Day
National Ride Your Horse to a Bar Day encourages horse enthusiasts to saddle up and trot to their local bar for a drink. The idea is simple: saddle up, ride your horse to a local bar, and enjoy a drink.
Partner with local bars and equestrian communities to create a novelty April event that drives foot traffic and social media buzz through a quirky, Instagram-worthy experience.
- Saddle up for a drink: bars offer Western-themed cocktails and horse-friendly parking for April
- Cowboy/cowgirl costume contest at participating bars with prizes for best outfit
- User-generated content campaign: #RideYourHorseToABar featuring customer photos and videos
- Partner with local stables to promote group riding events ending at sponsor bars
National Ride Your Horse to a Bar Day is a recent addition to the calendar, first established in 2021.
Dale Garwood, a horse enthusiast, founded this unique day with an aim to blend the love for horses with a fun social activity — bringing the spirit of the Old West into modern times.
Garwood’s idea caught on quickly, encouraging people to saddle up and ride to their local bars. This day celebrates the joy of horseback riding while providing a novel way to spend time with friends and family.
Saddle Up and Ride
First and foremost, dust off that saddle and ride to your favorite local bar. A leisurely ride through town to a favorite watering hole can be an exhilarating experience. This simple yet thrilling activity is the essence of the day, combining a love for horses with a fun outing.
Dress the Part
Channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl by donning some classic western attire. Think boots, a stylish hat, and a sturdy belt. Embracing the old-school western look adds an extra layer of fun to the day. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the Wild West.
Host a Riding Party
Invite friends who share a love for horses to join in on the fun. Organize a small group to ride together to a bar. This group activity not only enhances the experience but also ensures safety and enjoyment for everyone involved. Plus, it’s always more fun with friends.
Take Photos and Share
Capture the day with plenty of photos and videos. Share these moments on social media to spread the joy and use hashtags to connect with others celebrating across the country. This also helps to document and remember the unique day!
Enjoy a Themed Drink
Once at the bar, ask for a special themed drink to toast the day. Some bars might even create a custom cocktail for the occasion. Whether it’s a classic whiskey or a refreshing mocktail, savoring a special drink adds to the fun! It also sparks interesting conversations and social interactions at bars, as patrons often show curiosity about the horses and their riders.