The “Friends of the Fair North Coast Benefit Horse Show,” now in its 31st year, is a three-part series of horse shows held at the Clatsop County Fair and Expo in Astoria, starting February 21, 2026. Open to all ages and free to the public, the event supports the Fairgrounds and features various categories, including beginner classes for young riders aged three to seven. Sue Hansell, the show manager since 2012, emphasizes the importance of these shows in fostering horsemanship skills and providing riders their first experience of competition and recognition.

Organized by the non-profit Friends of the Clatsop County Fair, the shows culminate in high point awards tracked by the Oregon Family Equestrian Association and Oregon Horsemen’s Association. The event offers a range of activities from lead-line classes for the youngest riders to popular “Ranch Riding” Western pattern classes, encouraging skill development and a strong bond between horse and rider. Hansell finds joy in witnessing the excitement and growth of participants, especially the young riders earning their first ribbons.