Events
Join us!
All event proceeds go toward our mission to promote the safety and welfare of America’s equines locally and nationally through rescue, advocacy, and education while healing humans through horse-to-human connections and supportive programs with our sanctuary horses. Thank you for your support!
Check back often for upcoming events and take a look at what we’ve been up to lately.
Yoga on the Farm
Yoga Class Fundraiser at US Horse Welfare & Rescue
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned yogi, this event is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and stretch out. The instructor will guide you through a series of poses designed to help you find balance and peace of mind. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with your body in a beautiful setting all while supporting this important organization. See you on the mat!
This class will be outdoors on the grass. Please dress for the weather. You may want to consider bringing a blanket or towel to place under the mat.
Please note that photos and videos may be taken at this event for future advertising. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let the instructor know prior to the class starting.
All proceeds will benefit the horse rescue programs. Sliding donation scale of $20-$30.
Annual Gala: Hoedown for Horses 2025
This year's annual fundraiser will keep you smiling & stomping to the music of Jake's Rockin' Country Band- all to save horses in need!
🎉 Saddle up for the event of the season! The USHWR Hoedown for Horses Gala is a boot-stompin’ night of fun, music, games and philanthropy under the stars—all to support rescued horses in need. Get your tickets now!
Gold Spur VIP guests will kick off the night in style with early access, signature cocktails, scrumptious hors d'oeuvres, dinner, close-up table seating, and an exclusive meet & greet with Jake’s Rockin’ Country Band, USHWR board members, and other notable guests.
🥈 Silver Spur Admission includes seating and two complimentary drink tickets, giving you a head start on the evening’s festivities.
Bronze Spur General Admission is bring-your-own-chair, with delicious food available for purchase on-site.
No matter your ticket level, you’ll enjoy a night filled with raffles, amazing silent auction items, fun paddle games, lawn games, and the electric energy of Jake’s Rockin’ Country Band. Don’t miss this lively celebration where community, compassion, and country music come together to make a difference! 🤠Don’t miss this lively celebration where community, compassion, and country music come together to make a difference!
We can’t wait to see you there!
LIVE MUSIC FROM
Jake’s Rockin’ Country Band
Covering hits by current country artists like Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, Miranda Lambert and old school stars Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Merle Haggard the Rockin Country Band is sure to please country fans of all ages. The boys also play country and southern rock by the Eagles, The Doobie Brothers, Lynrd Skynrd, Creedence Clearwater Revival, the Grateful Dead, The Marshall Tucker Band and the Allman Brothers.
Heroes Horsing Around
We welcome all veterans and their families to our sanctuary (for free) on July 4, 2025 from 11 - 1:30pm to gather with each other and our gentle herd. Sign up ahead of time so we can prepare lunch for you.
Panera Fundraiser
We’re raising dough! 25% of net sales at Panera on June 20th will be donated!
Enjoy a meal at Panera in Avon, CT and raise money for the rescue! From 4:00 - 8:00 pm on June 20th, use CODE FUN4U (on this flyer) and show them a copy to donate to USHWR. Thank you in advance for your help and enjoy some great food!
Download the flyer below and bring with you or show the cashier from your phone…
Dressage Schooling Show
Join us at Nod Hill Farm, home of US Horse Welfare & Rescue, for a relaxed Dressage Schooling Show — open to all levels, from Intro to Fourth Level! This is the perfect opportunity to gain experience, receive valuable judge feedback. Enjoy a day of horsemanship and community while supporting our work and America's domestic and wild at-risk equines.
Mother's Day Hug-a-Horse
Celebrate Mom and bring the whole family to our rescue sanctuary.
Come experience the healing power of horses at our Hug-A-Horse event—a unique opportunity to slow down, connect, and feel the joy of being up close with these incredible animals.
At Hug-A-Horse, guests of all ages are invited to meet our rescued horses in a safe, peaceful, and welcoming environment. Whether you’re brushing a gentle gelding, feeding treats to a curious mare, or wrapping your arms around a wise old draft horse, you’ll feel the magic that happens when horses and humans connect.
This isn’t just a photo-op—it’s a meaningful moment. Many of our horses were rescued from neglect, slaughter pipelines, or abandonment. Today, they serve as ambassadors of hope, kindness, and second chances.
Visitors can expect:
Guided, hands-on time with our rescue horses
Grooming stations and horse “hug zones”
Educational displays about wild horses and horse rescue
A bake sale, raffle, and fun activities for kids
Opportunities to sponsor a horse or a program for underprivileged youth
Beautiful open spaces, fresh air, and a true sense of community
Every Hug-A-Horse event helps raise funds to care for our sanctuary horses and support inclusive programs for veterans, neurodivergent youth, and individuals facing mental health challenges.
Come for the hugs. Leave with hope in your heart.
Valentine's Hug-A-Horse
Experience the magic of an afternoon of live, romantic electric cello while you meet our rehabilitated rescue horses and give them a hug!. The one-and-only Marston Smith returns for an encore performance. Complimentary roses, mimosas & light refreshments (while supplies last.) Desserts & refreshments for sale. All proceeds go to support their care.
For couples, galentines, families, or whoever! Enjoy the day sharing the love!
Flatbread Fundraiser
Craving a break from the kitchen? Perfect! Join us at The Flatbread Co. in Canton for a delicious dinner that also supports our cause. With every purchase, a portion goes directly towards backing US Horse Welfare and Rescue. Can’t wait to see you there!
Holiday Hug a Horse ™
Holiday Party on the farm! Bring the kids for a visit with Santa, our elves & of course our horses!
Take a hay ride, visit the hot chocolate bar, and enjoy sitting by the fire pit, tour the barns, HUG A HORSE ..and be sure to stay for the lighting of our 30' Christmas tree. PLUS - get some holiday shopping done with vendors selling everything from jewelry and dog treats to handmade goat milk products!
Pony rides and goodie bags for the first 100 kids.
Pony rides 2-4pm
Santa 2:30-4pm
Tree lighting 4:30(ish)
Carolers sing 4:30pm
If you’re not sure yet, tickets are available at the door, but we do love it when you purchase ahead of time to make sure we have enough supplies for the day. Thank you!
Wreaths to support the Sanctuary
Support our horse sanctuary while decorating your home for the Holidays!
GivingTuesday Hay Heroes
Be a Hay Hero for the holidays!
This holiday season, we are asking our amazing supporters to become our HAY HEROES by helping us raise $12,000 through donations and spreading the word. The funds raised will go directly towards feeding the herd now through spring.
Together, let’s unleash the power of radical generosity on GivingTuesday and beyond!
Horses & Heroes FREE Open House
In honor of Veteran’s Day, we are excited to welcome military veterans and their families to come check out our sanctuary at our FREE open house. Experience the magic of getting up close and personal with our wonderful horses.
Thank you to all our military veterans, we hope to see you there!
Seniors with Horses
A unique opportunity for seniors to visit with our rescue horses and enjoy refreshments and conversation in a covered fresh air setting. (Not a riding program)
Every Wednesday 10:30 am - 11:45 am
Sessions begin September 6, 2024
$20 per person, $30 per couple
Halloween Hug-a-Horse
Mark your calendars and get ready for a day filled with horse hugs, Halloween spirit, and unforgettable memories. We can't wait to see you there! Snacks and Beverages available for purchase.
After the Roses
Step into a night filled with heartwarming moments at our Equine Rescue Fundraiser. Delight in a spread of delicious food and drinks, carefully prepared to satisfy your palate and fuel your spirit of giving. Sip on refreshing beverages and mingle with fellow supporters as we come together to make a difference for rescued horses.
Flatbread Fundraiser
Craving a break from the kitchen? Perfect! Join us at The Flatbread Co. in Caton for a delicious dinner that also supports our cause. With every purchase, a portion goes directly towards backing US Horse Welfare and Rescue.
Summer Programs
Something for everyone ages 6-16! Spots filling fast! Sign up now for best selection of dates.
Clinic: Show Readiness
Join us for an immersive clinic dedicated to preparing you and your equine partner for the spotlight of the show ring. Led by seasoned instructors with years of competitive experience, this clinic is your gateway to mastering the art of presentation, finesse, and confidence in the arena.
Clinic: Show Readiness
Join us for an immersive clinic dedicated to preparing you and your equine partner for the spotlight of the show ring. Led by seasoned instructors with years of competitive experience, this clinic is your gateway to mastering the art of presentation, finesse, and confidence in the arena.
Barn Buddies
Sign your kids up today for what has become a Farmington Valley staple for kids ages 6-11. The kids get some horsemanship time as they learn about horses & the grooming and caring for them.
Clinic: Show Readiness
Join us for an immersive clinic dedicated to preparing you and your equine partner for the spotlight of the show ring. Led by seasoned instructors with years of competitive experience, this clinic is your gateway to mastering the art of presentation, finesse, and confidence in the arena.
Jumping Clinic
Join our instructors for a jumping clinic to hone your equestrian skills.
Teens to the Rescue
Be a part of something bigger in your community! by helping to take care of USHWR’s rescued horses! We have a great group of kids who come every week to help care for our horses under the careful eye of our instructors.