For 2026, the theme is ‘Hold Your Horses’, celebrating everything equestrian.
From pony rides and horse care workshops to interactive games, the event is designed to introduce children to the magic of horses and ponies in a welcoming and playful environment.
One of this year’s highlights is the Hobby Horse Arena, run by the Hobby Horse Association.
Kids of all abilities can trot, jump, and compete, turning imaginative play into a full-on, nationally recognised sport.
Hobby horsing has taken off as a creative, inclusive activity, and now children can experience it live with guidance from experienced instructors.
The Mini Pony Show is another crowd-pleaser, featuring ponies Rolo and Sprout, who perform tricks, jumps, and even musical numbers, all in a charming vintage-inspired setting.
Fans of YouTube will be excited to see Jumping with Ivy, the 9-year-old showjumper sensation, demonstrate her incredible pony skills live in front of the audience.
CountryTastic isn’t just about horses..
Visitors can explore hands-on farming experiences, meeting pigs, lambs, goats, and donkeys, while learning fascinating facts from friendly local farmers.
Across three entertainment rings, there’s non-stop action:
Paw Parade Ring: dog agility and rescue dog displays
Countryside Arena: Malvern Pony Club shows and Birds of Prey
Livestock Ring: tacking and grooming demonstrations, plus a lively mock livestock auction
For younger animal enthusiasts, there’s the Alpaca Cafe, featuring fluffy alpacas munching their favourite treats, and the Rabbit Ranch, where kids can learn how to care for rabbits with tips from the Cheltenham Animal Shelter.
Little farmers can hop on tractor and trailer rides, pedal miniature tractors, and lift foam bales, experiencing real farm-life adventures.
Creative play is also a highlight, with workshops in spinning, weaving, willow weaving, clay modelling, and food-based activities like bread making, cheese pressing, and chocolate creations with Chocotastic.
And of course, no family event would be complete without familiar faces: Peter Rabbit and Peppa Pig will be making special appearances to delight young visitors.
Children gain hands-on exposure to farm life, equestrian skills, and creative arts, while families enjoy a fun-filled, memorable day out.
The 2026 event is proudly headline sponsored by Malvern St James School, an independent day and boarding school in Great Malvern.
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