Shakopee, Minn. — Minnesota Horse Expo officials have announced that the annual showcase of the state’s horse industry will be held at Canterbury Park April 25 – 27, 2025. Sponsored by the Minnesota Horse Council, the Minnesota Horse Expo is the largest equine trade show and breed exhibition in Minnesota, attracting hundreds of vendors, more than 25 equine breeds and 20,000 expected visitors.
“We are fortunate to have formed this partnership with Canterbury Park,” Minnesota Horse Expo President Darrell Mead said. “Canterbury Park is the public face of horse racing in our state. Bringing this industry-wide event to their venue is a natural fit.”
Canterbury Park, located 20 minutes south of Minneapolis in Shakopee, has conducted live horse racing for 30 years, accommodating more than 1,000 horses and 250,000 spectators each summer.
“We’re excited to bring the Minnesota Horse Expo to Canterbury Park,” company president Randy Sampson said. “The Expo showcases the breadth and importance of the equine industry in Minnesota. This industry drives significant state-wide agricultural and economic benefits in our state. We look forward to welcoming horse enthusiasts from all corners of Minnesota to Canterbury Park.”
The Minnesota Horse Expo creates an easy-access marketplace for equine-related merchandise. Horses representing many horse breeds and associations will be displayed and exhibited each day. Speakers, trainers and clinicians will educate on equitation, horse training, care and maintenance. Free pony rides will be available to the public daily.
“Our facility is built for these types of large-scale public shows,” Canterbury Director of Entertainment Deb Schaber said. “In addition to our 85,000 square feet of flexible indoor space for vendor exhibits, meeting rooms and seminars, we are uniquely suited to utilize many of our racing stalls and track surfaces for this event. We are also accustomed to the food and beverage needs of large crowds. Shakopee has built its reputation on hospitality. There are more than 950 hotel rooms in Shakopee as well as campgrounds nearby for those attending from out state. The community will welcome this show with open arms.”
The Minnesota Horse Expo has been conducted for 44 years, most recently held at the Coliseum on the grounds of the Minnesota State Fair.
Tickets are on sale Tuesday, Nov. 19. Event parking is free. For more information about Minnesota Horse Expo 2025 and to purchase tickets visit https://www.mnhorseexpo.org/ .
