The HOP continued with the Equestfest at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center were many of the 22 entries for the parade performed and showed animals of every size from the 38" Arizona Mini Mystique to the Shire, the worlds tallest horse, at 19 hands tall and weighing over 2000 pounds. Each unit represents a different way horses were used throughout history. Some were just about the joy of riding while others demonstrated the many jobs horses have done.
One of my favorites was the Martinez Family who are riding in their 30th parade. They wear the outfits of the Mexican Charros and in the parade Benny twirls his rope the whole 5.5 miles.
This group of cowgirls, the Painted Ladies, put their horses through their paces with a program of rodeo drills.
This unit from Fort Hood's 1st Calvary Division did drills showing formations that were used in military campaigns. 
The famous Budweiser Clydesdales executed maneuvers used while working including backing the wagon up to the loading dock. The wagon was not in the parade because they don't want alcohol being showcased, but the horses did pull the Anheuser-Busch float, "Quest for the Best", celebrating the upcoming Vancouver Olympics.
The Arizona Mini Mystiques did a routine of spins and figure eights and ended with a suicide charge to the gate.
These Appaloosas and their riders are dressed in authentic Nez Perce costumes. Leslie, the marshal, was also in charge of the group of floats being decorated where we volunteered. 
The Amigo de Anza Equestrian unit did a routine of pinwheels and other maneuvers. 
The Scripps Mirmar Saddlebreds group had a number of different breeds and the riders and horses were dressed in vintage Barnum and Bailey circus outfits. 
This riderless Arabian beauty performed tricks while the rest of the group did drills.
The Wells Fargo stage is a symbol of the company's California heritage going back to 1852.
The Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard was formed in 1967 and they ride Palomino mustangs that are adopted from the Bureau of Land Management wild horse program.
The New Buffalo Soldiers reenact the post Civil War 10th Regiment of the U.S. Cavalry and strive to educate and enlighten the world about contributions of black men on America's Western frontier.These are just a few of the wonderful groups that performed. Others included more cowgirls, mounted police, a medieval tournament, the Victorian Roses Ladies Riding Society and groups featuring the Arabian and Peruvian Paso breeds. The Equestfest is a must see for anyone who loves animals and wants to get a up close look at these beautiful horses.
After the horse show we attended the Glory of Christmas at the Crystal Cathedral. This was an interesting production of the Christmas story with a huge cast, live animals, real fire and angels literally flying through the air. No pics were allowed.
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