by Daniel Duric, for the Newport Dispatch

BARTON — The Orleans County Fairgrounds will host its inaugural NEK Equine Expo on August 2-3, 2025, an event organizers hope will become a community staple showcasing local talent and supporting small businesses in the equine industry.

Inspired by the renowned Equine Affaire events in Springfield, Massachusetts, and Columbus, Ohio, the NEK Equine Expo promises to bring a fresh, local perspective to equine events in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

The two-day expo will feature educational clinics, interactive demonstrations and performances from top-tier experts including veterinarians, farriers and trainers. Attendees can browse vendors offering tack, apparel, specialized services and products for equine enthusiasts.

A highlight of the weekend will be the NEQuinox performance on Saturday evening, where talented performers will showcase their skills in a captivating show set to music.

“We’re thrilled to bring this event to the community and hope it will foster growth, awareness, and a stronger connection to our local equine culture,” said Beth Martin, one of the event organizers.

Fellow organizer Chelsea Cummings expressed enthusiasm for the event’s development.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the Equine Expo take shape,” Cummings said. “I can’t wait for the wisdom our clinicians will share, and I’m confident it will have a lasting, positive impact on our local horse community.”

Gates open at 7:30 a.m. both days, with clinics and vendors running from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The NEQuinox performance begins at 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Daily admission is $10, and food will be available on-site.

Advance tickets are available for $8 through July 27 at E.M. Brown & Sons, Newport Farm and Garden – Agway, Morrison’s Feed Bag, and The Farm Yard Store.