articles

Free Fun is the Mane Event at Tryon International Equestrian Center

By Iris Hartness, Maiden NC Mom and MacKid Guest Writer June 26, 2018


Tryon International Equestrian Center hosts evenings of free, family fun and world-class horseback competition at their Saturday Night Lights events this summer. Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) is located in Mill Spring, NC, about an hour and a half drive from Hickory. If your family enjoys horses or is just looking for a new experience, Saturday Night Lights is worth the drive.

I visited last fall and was amazed at the amount of family entertainment offered beginning at 6:00pm before the Grand Prix competition. We were able to enjoy a giant-bubble artist, a magician and fire dancers in a carnival-like atmosphere. Venetian carousel rides, face painting and horse riding simulations were also offered at no cost. Some fair foods such as cotton candy, wood-fired pizza, and corn on the cob were available for purchase from booths throughout. Or if you would prefer to enjoy a meal, the TIEC is home to several dining options, from family-friendly diners to more intimate, casually elegant restaurants. I was impressed with the variety of onsite restaurants, everything from Mexican to Italian to Sushi, all styled with attention to detail and theme.

At 8:00pm, the Grand Prix jumping competition begins. Having never attended a competition before, I found the athleticism and beauty of the horses and riders thrilling. Riders from around the world were participating, and it was not hard to immediately be pulled into the excitement. Throughout the contest, there was live music, games and highlights all broadcast on a state of the art screen, similar to other professional sporting events. For those like myself who have never attended a horse show of this caliber, the TIEC provides a helpful Horse Show 101 guide here.

Parking and admission are free, although bear in mind that parking is on the adjacent smaller rings, so your shoes may get a little sandy.

The following are upcoming dates for Saturday Night Lights:

  • May 4, 2019, 6:00-10:00pm
  • May 11, 2019, 6:00-10:00pm
  • May 18, 2019 6:00-10:00pm
  • May 25, 2019, 6:00-10:00pm
  • June 1, 2019, 6:00-10:00pm
  • June 8, 2019, 6:00-10:00pm

To learn more about Tryon International Equestrian Center and the Saturday Night Lights events, visit tryon.coth.com or call (828) 863-1000.

Like this article?  Subscribe to the FREE Hickory - W Piedmont Macaroni Kid newsletter to learn more about other awesome local events. Click on our local Events Calendar for an easy way to find fun events for your family!