Nationalchampionship

Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration

The world championship for Tennessee Walking Horses, celebrating the breed's signature smooth gait.

Dates
August 27 - September 6
2026
Location
Shelbyville
Tennessee
Duration
11 days
Attendance
2,500+ horses, 100,000+ spectators

About Celebration

The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is the breed's premier event, crowning the World Grand Champion each year in Shelbyville, Tennessee. This 11-day event showcases the unique flat walk, running walk, and canter of the Tennessee Walking Horse across multiple divisions.

Breed Focus

Tennessee Walking Horse

History

First held in 1939, the Celebration has been the pinnacle of the Tennessee Walking Horse world for over 80 years. The event takes place in the breed's birthplace and has crowned legendary champions throughout its history.

Event Highlights

World Grand Championship
World Champion titles
Amateur and youth divisions
Saturday night finals
Trail pleasure classes

Pricing & Entry Fees

Entry Fees

$75-$300 per class

Stall Fees

$400-$700

Spectator Tickets

$10-$50

World Grand Championship Saturday night

Facilities & Amenities

Calsonic Arena seating 10,000+
Multiple show rings
On-site stabling
Vendor area
Food courts

Requirements to Compete

  • 1
    TWHBEA membership
  • 2
    Horse registration
  • 3
    HPA compliance
  • 4
    Health certificates

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration 2026?

The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration 2026 runs from August 27 to September 6, 2026. The event lasts 11 days.

Where is the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration held?

The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is held at Calsonic Arena in Shelbyville, Tennessee at Celebration Grounds.

How much does it cost to enter the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration?

Entry fees for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration range from $75-$300 per class. Stall fees are typically $400-$700. World Grand Championship Saturday night

What disciplines are featured at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration?

The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration features competition in Flat Walk, Running Walk, Trail Pleasure, Versatility. The event focuses on Tennessee Walking Horse horses.

How can I watch the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration?

Spectator tickets for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration are $10-$50. Visit https://twhnc.com for ticket information.

What are the highlights of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration?

Key highlights of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration include: World Grand Championship, World Champion titles, Amateur and youth divisions, Saturday night finals.

Where should I stay for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration?

Accommodation options near the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration include: Shelbyville hotels, Nashville area (1 hour), Murfreesboro lodging, RV camping.

What are the requirements to compete at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration?

Requirements to compete at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration include: TWHBEA membership, Horse registration, HPA compliance, Health certificates.

Location

Calsonic Arena

Celebration Grounds

Shelbyville, Tennessee

United States

Organizer

Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' & Exhibitors' Association

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Where to Stay

  • Shelbyville hotels
  • Nashville area (1 hour)
  • Murfreesboro lodging
  • RV camping

Awards & Prizes

  • World Grand Champion trophy
  • World Champion titles
  • Reserve Champion awards
  • Breeder awards

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