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2008 Draft Horse Classic - September 18 - 21, 2008:
Tickets to the 2008 Draft Horse Classic will go on sale in early May 2008. If you would like to be added to our mailing list please email info@nevadacountyfair.com and we will send you a copy of the Gentle Giant Journal when tickets go on sale.

Nevada County Fairgrounds website has a page about the Draft Horse Classic and how to attend. Or call the Fairgrounds office: 530-273-6217.

Originally the large horses were bred to carry the heavy load of knights in armor as they rode into battle. As the time of knights came to a close, these sturdy animals became the primary power on farms, pulling everything from plows to heavy wagons loaded with produce. In America, draft horses helped expand farming as the nation moved west.

Then harness and wagon, and the draft horse, gave way to the gasoline engine and a new-fangled invention called the tractor. Many breeds of draft horses dwindled and neared extinction until recognized and perpetuated by people who saw the grace and skill these Gentle Giants displayed.

Six stunning performances will be presented in the arena at the Draft Horse Classic. In addition, the Western Trade show will spotlight everything from cowboy garb to tackle. The Harvest Fair presents a bountiful display of end-of-season produce that wasn't quite ready for the Nevada County Fair. Add to that the world-class western art show, Art at the Classic.

Also entertaining visitors on the grounds will be live bluegrass and western music, lumberjack and horse shoeing demonstrations, and agricultural competitions. Admission to the fairgrounds for these companion events has been eliminated this year, making a stroll through the old west absolutely free.

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is located at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley, 50 miles northeast of Sacramento, off Highway 49. For more information call the fairgrounds office at (530) 273-6217.