What is an Open Horse Show?
For those new to equestrian competition or considering expanding their show experience, open horse shows offer accessible competition opportunities across disciplines and experience levels.
Open shows foster connections within the broader equestrian community. The inclusive nature of open shows contributes to the growth and sustainability of the equestrian industry by providing entry points for new participants and maintaining engagement among the riders who form the foundation of the horse show community.
Defining Characteristics
An open horse show is a competitive event that places no restrictions on breed or registration status. Unlike shows governed by national breed associations, which require horses to be registered with specific organizations such as AQHA, APHA, or ApHC, open shows welcome all horses. This inclusive framework allows all horses to compete on equal footing, with performance serving as the primary criterion for evaluation.
This accessibility extends to exhibitors as well. Open shows accommodate competitors across all age groups and experience levels, from youth participants beginning their competitive journey to adult amateurs and professional trainers. Through National Open Horse Show Association, members can earn points and year-end awards based on their performance throughout the season.
Show Eligibility and Structure
NOHSA recognizes points earned at open and 4-H shows that are not governed by a national equine association. Eligible shows are open horse shows that are held in-person and do not offer any classes sanctioned by a national equine association outside of 4-H or FFA.
Members can compete at any eligible open show to accumulate points toward year-end awards and qualification for the NOHSA World Championship Show. NOHSA Partner Member Shows offer additional benefits and opportunities, including exclusive NOHSA Medal classes and enhanced recognition within the community. (See our Calendar to find an open horse show near you.)
Disciplines and Class Offerings
Open horse shows typically feature a range of competitive divisions spanning both Western and English disciplines. A complete list of qualifying classes for the NOHSA World Championship Show and Year-End Awards can be found here.
This diversity enables exhibitors to showcase their horses’ versatility and allows competitors to explore multiple disciplines within a single event. For those developing skills across various areas of horsemanship, open shows provide valuable opportunities to gain experience in different competitive formats.
Recognition and Awards Programs
NOHSA members participate in structured recognition programs that track achievements across multiple events. Points accumulate based on a horse-and-rider combination. The association offers year-end awards to top performers, providing meaningful goals and acknowledging progress at all competitive levels. To participate in NOHSA’s points program, both the exhibitor and horse must maintain current memberships and registrations.
Is an Open Show Right for You?
Open horse shows are well-suited for exhibitors seeking:
- Competition opportunities unrestricted by breed registration requirements
- Exposure to multiple disciplines within a single venue
- A developmental environment for both horse and rider
- Connection with a diverse equestrian community
- Participation in structured recognition and awards programs
- Accessible entry to competitive horsemanship
Whether pursuing competitive advancement, skill development, or recreational enjoyment, open horse shows provide a structured platform for equestrian achievement. These events continue to serve as a cornerstone of American horse show culture, supporting participants at every stage of their equestrian journey.
For more information about NOHSA Membership, NOHSA Competition Registration, or finding approved shows in your area, please browse our website or contact the NOHSA office.