Kissing booths and blue ribbons: Ozarks Morgan Horse Club brings ‘Meet the Morgan’ to Springfield area families on April 25

BY AMANNDA G. MAPHIES, Freelance Writer

The Ozarks Morgan Horse Club is inviting the community to step back in time and get "up close and personal" with America’s first horse breed. Meet the Morgan is a one-of-a-kind interactive event designed to educate families on the 230-year history of the Morgan horse while providing hands-on equine experiences.

Unlike traditional horse shows where spectators watch from the stands, Meet the Morgan breaks down the arena fence. Attendees can visit the popular "Equine Kissing Booth" for photos, participate in a "handprint" station where children can leave a colorful mark on a horse, and even feed peppermint treats to the club’s "equine superstars."

"The Morgan horse is the original American breed, tracing back to a single stallion born in 1789," says Sonja McDanel, president of the Ozarks Morgan Horse Club. "Our mission is to share their incredible personalities. There is a specific calm that comes from being near a horse, and we want every child in our community to feel that joy—whether it’s their first time petting a horse or they are looking to start their own riding journey."

Event details

· What: Meet the Morgan (Presented by Ozarks Morgan Horse Club)

· When: April 25, 2026, 1 - 4 p.m.

· Where: Pinegar Arena, 2401 S. Kansas Expressway, Springfield

· Cost: Admission price free / $5 for rides

The event will feature 10–14 back-to-back exhibitions showcasing the breed's famous versatility, including:

· High-action displays: Jumping, reining, and English Pleasure.

· Historical traditions: Side saddle and carriage driving

· Working heritage: Log pulling and Western disciplines

· Interactive learning: A "How to Buy Your First Horse" seminar hosted by expert Nancy Allen

Following the demonstrations, the public will have the rare opportunity to take carriage rides or guided horse rides for just $5, allowing anyone to experience the thrill of the saddle firsthand.