Mid-Michigan's Favorite Horse Show Opens Today

The 45th annual Michigan Great Lakes International (MGLI) Draft Horse Show and Pull at the Michigan State University (MSU) Pavilion on Farm Lane, opens the doors Oct. 13-16 to competitors from all over the U.S. and Canada. The event draws competitors from across North America and is the largest equine event in Mid-Michigan. MGLI's attendance tops 35,000 people, making it the 2nd largest trade show in the Greater Lansing area, and the 10th largest in Michigan.

"We are back in full swing with a great show in store for everyone to enjoy." said MGLI President Aaron Rice. "This show is such a favorite of thousands and we invite everyone in Michigan to come out and see these awesome animals! It is worth the drive, no matter how far."

The Draft Horse Show and Pull is open Thursday through Sunday. There will be over 800 horses on the grounds, competing for purses up to $8,000 in each class. The entrance fee is $12 for adults, $7 for students and free for children under seven.

"MGLI is the only event in the world to feature halter classes, hitching, plowing, pulling and riding for all draft horse breeds and mules at the same time and location," said Rice. "During our exciting four day show you will see 200 exhibitors and 800 draft horses from 30 states and three Canadian provinces."

Since 1978, MGLI has annually honored draft horse breeders and pullers who have made an impact on the draft horse industry and Michigan's agriculture community. These majestic beauties and their owners are an important piece of the Michigan agriculture industry, as well as nationally.

MGLI will be recognizing the top five Michigan Bred and Owned Draft Horses in the Belgian, Percheron and Clydesdale/Shire for foals, yearlings and two year olds. A spectacular pulling contest will be featured Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening.

Visitors to the MGLI Show and Pull will have the opportunity to watch the best draft horses in North American compete and demonstrate their grace and beauty.

For more information visit https://mgli.org/. For direction to MSU's Pavilion visit mgli.org/mgli/map-directions/