Planning to attend the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show but overwhelmed by conflicting information about dates, tickets, and what’s actually worth seeing?
It’s a common challenge.
This 11-day extravaganza draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually—and first-timers often miss the best experiences because they didn’t know what to expect. The show isn’t just about horses. It’s a massive shopping expo, international food court, and family entertainment destination rolled into one.
Here’s the deal:
Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or just looking for a unique thing to do in Scottsdale this February, this complete guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect visit.
In this 2026 visitor guide, you’ll discover:
- 🐴 Exact dates & schedule for the 71st anniversary show (February 12-22, 2026)
- 🎟️ Ticket prices & best value options (including FREE admission days)
- 👨👩👧 T.A.I.L. Tours—the must-do FREE family experience most visitors miss
- 🛍️ Shopping Expo secrets—300+ vendors with Western jewelry, art, and fashion
- 🏨 Where to stay near WestWorld during Scottsdale’s busiest February week
- 🍽️ Best restaurants nearby for post-show dining
Let’s dive in:
🐴 Quick Answer: Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show 2026 Essentials
- Dates: February 12-22, 2026 (11 days)
- Location: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road
- General Admission: $15 adults | $10 seniors/military | FREE kids 12 & under
- FREE Days: Military Appreciation (Feb 17) + Family Night (Feb 21 after 3:45pm)
- Parking: FREE (major value at Arizona events)
- Best Value: 11-Day Button ($75 unlimited access)
- Jump to Ticket Options →
Table of Contents
What Is the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show?
The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is the world’s largest annual Arabian horse competition, celebrating its 71st year in 2026. Held February 12-22 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, this 11-day event showcases approximately 2,547 registered Arabian and Half-Arabian horses competing for $3 million+ in prizes. Beyond the arena, visitors enjoy 300+ shopping vendors, international cuisine, and free T.A.I.L. educational tours—no horse knowledge required to attend.
Think of it as part equestrian Olympics, part county fair, part high-end shopping destination.
The show generates an estimated $98 million in economic impact for Scottsdale annually—making it one of Arizona’s largest recurring events.
💡 First-Timer Tip: You don’t need to know anything about horses to enjoy this event. Most attendees come for the shopping expo, people-watching, and unique atmosphere. The T.A.I.L. tours (free!) teach you everything you need to appreciate the competitions.
Now:
Let’s break down exactly when to visit and which days offer the best experiences.
2026 Dates, Schedule & Special Events at WestWorld Scottsdale
The 71st Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show runs February 12-22, 2026—an 11-day celebration that transforms WestWorld into the Arabian horse capital of the world.
Full Event Schedule: February 12-22, 2026
Gates open daily at 8:00 AM with competitions running until approximately 10:00 PM in multiple arenas.
Key competition categories include:
- Halter Classes — Horses judged on conformation, beauty, and breed standards
- Performance Classes — Western pleasure, English pleasure, hunter, and reining
- Youth Classes — Young riders (ages 10-18) showcasing their skills
- Championship Finals — February 20-22 feature the most prestigious classes
🏆 Pro Tip: The final weekend (Feb 20-22) features Championship classes with the most spectacular horses—but also the biggest crowds. Weekday visits (especially Feb 12-13) offer a more relaxed experience with shorter shopping lines.
Military Appreciation Day (February 17 — FREE Admission)
Active military, veterans, and their immediate families receive FREE general admission all day on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
Simply show valid military ID at the gate.
This is one of the best-attended days—arrive before 10 AM for easier parking.
Family Night (February 21 — FREE After 3:45 PM)
But here’s the kicker:
On Saturday, February 21, admission becomes completely FREE for everyone after 3:45 PM.
This is the perfect opportunity for families who want to experience the show without committing to full-price tickets. The shopping expo stays open, food vendors are serving, and evening Championship classes run until 10 PM.
📅 February “Super Season” Warning: The Arabian Horse Show overlaps with the WM Phoenix Open (Feb 10-16) and Barrett-Jackson Auction (Jan 18-26). This makes February Scottsdale’s busiest tourism month. Book hotels 6-8 weeks in advance or expect premium pricing and limited availability.
Tickets & Admission: What You’ll Pay in 2026
Good news: Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show tickets are reasonably priced compared to most major events.
Even better? Parking is completely FREE—unusual for Arizona events of this scale.
General Admission vs Reserved Seating
General Admission ($15 adults) gets you access to:
- All competition arenas (Equidome, Scottsdale Stadium, WestWorld Arena)
- The massive Shopping Expo (300+ vendors)
- International Cuisine Court
- Free T.A.I.L. Tours
- Horse barns and warm-up areas
Reserved Seating is available for Championship classes:
- Reserved Bleacher: $25-35 per session
- Box Seats: $150-300 for premium viewing (popular finals sell out)
For most first-time visitors, general admission provides the complete experience.
The 11-Day Button: Best Value for Repeat Visitors
The best part?
If you’re a local or planning multiple visits, the 11-Day Button costs just $75—that’s unlimited admission for all 11 days.
Do the math: At $15/day, the button pays for itself after just 5 visits. Many Scottsdale residents use it for morning shopping runs and evening competition viewing throughout the show’s run.
Kids Get In Free (12 & Under)
Children 12 and under enjoy FREE admission every day of the show when accompanied by a paying adult.
Combined with free parking and the free T.A.I.L. educational tours, this makes the Arabian Horse Show one of the most affordable family outings during Scottsdale’s peak season.
| Ticket Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| General Admission Single day pass $15 |
First-time visitors, casual attendees |
| Seniors (65+) / Military Discounted daily $10 |
Seniors, active/veteran military |
| Kids 12 & Under With paying adult FREE |
Families with children |
| Reserved Bleacher Championship sessions $25-35 |
Horse enthusiasts wanting prime views |
| Box Seats Premium finals viewing $150-300 |
Serious collectors, VIP experience |
| 11-Day Button Unlimited access all 11 days $75 BEST VALUE |
Locals, multi-day visitors |
What to Experience at the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show
The Arabian Horse Show isn’t just about watching horses trot around an arena.
It’s a multi-sensory experience spanning 387 acres of WestWorld—with something for everyone, whether you’re a lifelong equestrian or someone who’s never touched a horse.
World-Class Arabian Horse Competitions
Over 2,547 registered horses compete across multiple arenas throughout the 11-day event.
The main venues include:
- The Equidome — Climate-controlled arena hosting halter championships and evening finals
- Scottsdale Stadium — Performance classes including Western pleasure, reining, and hunter
- WestWorld Arena — Youth classes and daytime competitions
- Warm-Up Arenas — Watch horses and trainers prepare (often more intimate than main arenas)
It gets better:
You don’t need reserved seats for most competitions. General admission lets you walk freely between arenas, finding the best vantage points as classes rotate throughout the day.
The Shopping Expo: 300+ Vendors Under One Roof
For many visitors, the Shopping Expo is the main attraction.
Spread across the climate-controlled North Hall and outdoor Wendell Arena, you’ll find:
- Western & Southwestern Jewelry — Turquoise, silver, custom pieces from artisans like Bennett Fine Jewelry
- Equestrian Fashion — Show clothing, boots, hats, and accessories
- Art & Home Décor — Bronze sculptures, paintings, furniture with Western flair
- Tack & Saddles — Professional-grade equipment (and beautiful display pieces)
- Unique Gifts — Items you won’t find anywhere else in Scottsdale
🛍️ Shopping Strategy: The North Hall stays air-conditioned—perfect for Arizona’s unpredictable February weather. Visit early (before 11 AM) on weekdays for the best selection and shortest lines. Many vendors offer show-only pricing that disappears after February 22.
International Cuisine Court
Forget typical fairground food.
The International Cuisine Court offers curated dining options far beyond corn dogs and funnel cakes:
- Mediterranean kabobs and falafel
- Authentic Mexican street tacos
- Asian noodle bowls and dumplings
- Classic American BBQ and burgers
- Fresh salads and healthy options
- Gourmet coffee and dessert vendors
Prices range from $12-22 per entrée—reasonable for event dining.
T.A.I.L. Tours: The Must-Do Family Experience
This is crazy:
The T.A.I.L. Tours (Total Arabian Interaction & Learning) are completely FREE—and most first-time visitors don’t even know they exist.
These 45-60 minute guided tours are specifically designed for people who know nothing about horses. Expert guides walk you through the barns, explain Arabian breed characteristics, and arrange hands-on interactions with these magnificent animals.
What You’ll See on the T.A.I.L. Tour
- Behind-the-scenes barn access — See how horses are groomed and prepared for competition
- Meet actual show horses — Safe, supervised interactions (yes, you can pet them)
- Learn Arabian breed history — Why these horses are considered “living art”
- Understand competition judging — What makes a champion vs. an average horse
- Photo opportunities — Get pictures with horses worth $100,000+
How to Sign Up (It’s Free)
Tours run multiple times daily throughout the show.
To join a T.A.I.L. Tour:
- Visit the Information Booth near the main entrance after arriving
- Ask for the next available T.A.I.L. Tour time
- Show up at the designated meeting point 5 minutes early
- No reservations required—first come, first served
Tours fill up fastest on weekends. Weekday mornings offer the smallest groups and most personal experience.
👨👩👧 Family Tip: T.A.I.L. Tours are perfect for kids aged 5-15. The guides are excellent at engaging children, and the horse interactions create lasting memories. This alone makes the show worth attending—even if you skip the competitions entirely.
Insider Tips for First-Time Visitors
After covering dozens of Scottsdale events, here’s what separates a good Arabian Horse Show visit from a great one.
Best Days to Visit (Avoid the Crowds)
Want to know the best part?
Strategic timing can dramatically improve your experience:
- Best for relaxed browsing: Tuesday-Thursday (Feb 12-13, 17-19)
- Best for Championship viewing: Final weekend (Feb 20-22)—but expect crowds
- Best for families: Family Night Saturday (Feb 21) after 3:45 PM (FREE)
- Best for military: Military Appreciation Day (Feb 17)—FREE all day
- Avoid if possible: Presidents’ Day Weekend (Feb 15-16)—peak attendance
Parking & Getting Around WestWorld
Parking is FREE—a rarity at major Arizona events.
WestWorld’s massive lot accommodates thousands of vehicles, but prime spots near the entrance fill by 10 AM on weekends.
Parking tips:
- Arrive before 9:30 AM for closest parking on busy days
- Valet parking available ($20-30) for premium convenience
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll walk 2-3 miles exploring the grounds
- Bring a small wagon or cart for shopping purchases (allowed inside)
What to Wear in February
Scottsdale’s February weather is unpredictable.
Mornings can be 45°F while afternoons hit 75°F—sometimes on the same day.
Dress code recommendations:
- Layers are essential — Light jacket for morning, removable for afternoon
- Comfortable walking shoes — You’ll cover significant ground
- Casual Western wear welcome — Boots, hats, and jeans fit right in
- Sun protection — Sunglasses and sunscreen for outdoor arenas
- Small bag or backpack — For purchases, water, and layers
Where to Stay Near WestWorld of Scottsdale
Here’s the deal:
February is Scottsdale’s busiest tourism month. The Arabian Horse Show overlaps with the WM Phoenix Open golf tournament and follows Barrett-Jackson—creating peak hotel demand.
Book 6-8 weeks ahead or pay premium prices.
Luxury Resorts Near WestWorld (5-15 Minutes)
For the full Scottsdale experience, these luxury resorts combine proximity to WestWorld with world-class amenities:
- Fairmont Scottsdale Princess (12 min) — TPC golf, multiple pools, $400-700/night peak
- Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale (15 min) — Desert serenity, exceptional spa, $600-900/night
- The Phoenician (18 min) — Iconic luxury, Canyon Suites, $500-800/night
- Andaz Scottsdale (10 min) — Modern design, rooftop pool, $350-550/night
Budget-Friendly Options
Value-conscious visitors can find quality lodging at more reasonable rates:
- Hilton Garden Inn North Scottsdale (8 min) — Reliable quality, $180-280/night
- Courtyard by Marriott Scottsdale North (10 min) — Business-friendly, $160-250/night
- Hampton Inn Scottsdale (12 min) — Free breakfast included, $150-220/night
Alternatively, Old Town Scottsdale hotels offer walkable dining and nightlife—worth the 20-25 minute drive to WestWorld.
🏨 Booking Strategy: Search for hotels along the Loop 101 corridor (Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd to Princess Dr exits) for the quickest WestWorld access. Many properties offer “Horse Show Packages” with early breakfast and late checkout—ask when booking.
Where to Eat During the Arabian Horse Show
On-Site Dining at the Cuisine Court
The International Cuisine Court handles most visitors’ needs with varied options from $12-22 per entrée.
Best on-site choices:
- Mediterranean booth — Fresh kabobs and falafel plates
- Taco stand — Authentic street-style tacos
- BBQ pit — Brisket sandwiches and pulled pork
- Coffee cart — Essential for early morning arrivals
Nearby Restaurants Worth the Drive
For a proper sit-down meal, these restaurants are within 10 minutes of WestWorld:
- Butters Pancakes & Café (5 min) — Legendary Scottsdale breakfast spot, expect weekend waits
- Thai House (7 min) — Authentic Thai cuisine, great for groups
- Santé (10 min) — Upscale American, perfect for celebration dinners
- The Italian Daughter (12 min) — Classic Italian with housemade pasta
- Grimaldi’s Pizzeria (8 min) — Coal-fired pizza, family-friendly
🍽️ Dinner Tip: Make reservations for restaurants within 5 miles of WestWorld during show dates—especially for weekend dinners. The area fills with horse show attendees, and walk-in waits can exceed 90 minutes at popular spots.
FAQs: Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show 2026
When is the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show 2026?
The 71st Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show runs February 12-22, 2026—an 11-day event at WestWorld of Scottsdale (16601 N. Pima Road). Gates open daily at 8:00 AM with competitions running until approximately 10:00 PM. Championship finals take place the final weekend (February 20-22).
How much are tickets to the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show?
General admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors (65+) and military, and FREE for children 12 and under. Reserved seating for Championship classes ranges from $25-300 depending on location. The best value is the 11-Day Button ($75) for unlimited admission throughout the show. Parking is FREE.
Is the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show kid-friendly?
Absolutely—it’s one of Scottsdale’s best family events. Children 12 and under get free admission. The FREE T.A.I.L. Tours let kids meet horses up close with expert guides. Family Night (February 21 after 3:45 PM) offers free admission for everyone. The Shopping Expo and Cuisine Court provide entertainment beyond the arenas.
What can you buy at the Shopping Expo?
The Shopping Expo features 300+ vendors selling Western and Southwestern jewelry (turquoise, silver, custom pieces), equestrian fashion and accessories, art and bronze sculptures, home décor with Western flair, professional tack and saddles, and unique gifts unavailable elsewhere. Many vendors offer show-only pricing.
Is parking free at WestWorld for the horse show?
Yes—parking is completely FREE at WestWorld for the Arabian Horse Show. This is unusual for major Arizona events. The lot accommodates thousands of vehicles, but arrive before 9:30 AM on weekends for spots closest to the entrance. Valet parking is available for $20-30 if preferred.
Do I need to know about horses to enjoy the show?
Not at all. The majority of attendees are casual visitors who come for the shopping, food, atmosphere, and unique entertainment. The free T.A.I.L. Tours teach you everything you need to appreciate the competitions—no prior horse knowledge required. Many people attend annually without ever watching a single class.
What is a T.A.I.L. Tour at the Arabian Horse Show?
T.A.I.L. (Total Arabian Interaction & Learning) Tours are free 45-60 minute guided experiences designed for non-horse people. Expert guides take you behind the scenes to meet show horses, learn about Arabian breed characteristics, understand competition judging, and take photos with horses worth $100,000+. Sign up at the Information Booth—no reservations required.
Plan Your 2026 Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show Visit
Whether you’re a lifelong horse enthusiast or simply looking for a unique February outing, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show delivers an experience unlike anything else in Arizona.
From world-class equestrian competition to 300+ shopping vendors, free educational tours to international cuisine—there’s genuinely something for everyone across these 11 days at WestWorld.
Quick planning checklist:
- ✅ Dates: February 12-22, 2026
- ✅ Tickets: $15 GA (kids FREE, 11-Day Button $75)
- ✅ Free days: Military Day (Feb 17) + Family Night (Feb 21 after 3:45pm)
- ✅ Must-do: Sign up for a FREE T.A.I.L. Tour
- ✅ Hotels: Book 6-8 weeks ahead for best rates
- ✅ Parking: FREE—arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends
What experience are you most looking forward to at the 2026 Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show—the horse competitions, the shopping expo, or taking your family on a T.A.I.L. Tour?
Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear about your visit!
Planning more Scottsdale adventures? Check out these local guides:
