Centenary University’s Mane Event returns Sept. 12 with equine expo, family activities
LONG VALLEY, N.J. (Morris County) — Centenary University will bring back its Mane Event for a second year on Saturday, Sept. 12, offering a day of equine demonstrations, educational programs and family activities while raising money to support the university’s horses.
The event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Centenary University Equestrian Center, 40 Califon Road, in Long Valley. Proceeds from this year’s fundraiser will support pasture improvements for the ongoing care of Centenary’s equine herd.
Hosted by the university’s Equine Studies and Animal Health Department, the Mane Event is open to Centenary students and families, equestrians and the general public.
Last year’s inaugural event drew approximately 400 guests and raised $37,000 to purchase a shockwave therapy machine, a veterinary device used to support the health and well-being of the university’s horses.
“Last year’s Mane Event demonstrated the tremendous enthusiasm that exists for Centenary University’s equine programs and the horses at the heart of our students’ education,” said Kelly Munz, Dean, Centenary University Department of Equine Studies and Animal Health. “We look forward to building on last year’s momentum from with more learning, family activities, and stronger community connections to help raise funds that will directly benefit our herd.”
Returning activities include all-day equine lectures and equestrian demonstrations, the Parade of the Hounds, a horseless horse show, tricky tray, shopping, children’s crafts, face painting, bingo, and beer and food trucks.
Event sponsor NEOGEN will also present a specialized lecture on botulism and its impact on equine health.
New attractions this year include live question-and-answer panels, a visit from New Jersey mounted police, a complimentary Breyer model horse painting station, horseless barrel racing, a farrier exhibit, a 50/50 raffle, family games and a faculty and staff dunk tank.
No previous equine experience is required to participate in the activities, according to the university.
Vendors scheduled to participate include BCF Equestrian Athletic Training & Wellness, Boo’s Belts, Blankets by Bubbi, Caddy’s Twisted Treats, DA Herrmann Fine Jewelry Purveyor, Dave Kother Wood Turning, Epona Barn, Gifts Designed by K, Khateri Equine Wellness LLC, Kremps K9 Training, LK Embroidery and Designs LLC, My Happy Place Animal Sanctuary, Northeast EquiWellness, Sharp Iron Farm, Sip N’ Pour and Trophy Room Collectibles.
Food and beverage vendors include Czig Meister Brewing Company, Forno’s on Wheels, Rainbow Snow and Shugar Shack Soul Food.
Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. Advance registration is also available for the horseless horse show and horseless barrel racing through Centenary University’s Mane Event registration portal.
