Horse Fair in Portola Valley celebrates town’s equestrian culture

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Horses are a beloved animal in Portola Valley and as an equestrian-centered community, the  town’s Trails and Paths Committee hosted the annual Horse Fair on May 18. As the sun beamed across the lawn at Town Center, children and families had the opportunity to see horses, chickens, goats, rabbits, pigs and ducks. 

The event was well attended with parking lots full and people coming from across the Bay Area. The lines were stretched long for pony rides and entry into the petting zoo pen, a popular attraction for young children. 

Portola Valley community members brought their horses to the event allowing people to interact with them up close and learn about horses. Council member Mary Hufty had her three Icelandic horses at the fair, all were used to let people listen to the horse’s heartbeat through a stethoscope. 

“It’s the best it’s ever been,” said Hufty about the event. “Everyone is participating and showing up.”

Steve Roon, executive director of The Horse Park at Woodside, showed off his horse Billy, who he brought over to Woodside from Ireland in 2010. Roon and Billy compete in dressage, cross-country and show jumping. He said the one thing he loves about horses is the relationship and trust that’s developed. 

“The bond is great,” added Emily Rubin, a 14-year-old polo player at South Bay Polo. “They’re like a best friend, you never have to worry about betraying you.” Rubin rides her 18-year-old horse Calurosa who she describes as “super sweet.” 

Another sport featured at the event was equestrian vaulting. Local vaulting clubs such as the Woodside Vaulters and Pacific Coast Vaulting Club were represented by parents and young vaulters doing tricks to showcase their talents. 

Across from the vaulters was a cowboy named Cactus Joe, teaching children how to throw a lasso onto the horns of a fake bull. As a representative of the Volunteer Horse Patrol, Cactus Joe and other volunteers guided children as young as 4 on how to successfully throw the ropes. 

Other local organizations including the San Mateo County Libraries, Sheriff’s Office and the Horsemen’s Association set up booths for raffles and arts and crafts. Local artist Chris Romano drew custom horse cartoons for children at her booth. 

The horse fair brought together the community to spotlight the horses and livestock that are significant to the town’s culture. 

Hufty was impressed by the turnout and was appreciative of the community volunteers who made the event come to life. 

“Horses teach you all the lessons about collaboration and trust. All the things that we need in the world,” said Hufty.