What Does It Take To Plan a BreyerFest Adventure and Attend That Adventure by Rachel Alford of Road To BreyerFest
No matter your age, if you like horses or someone that you know likes horses, I am sure that you have heard about BreyerFest. If not, BreyerFest is a three day event that is held in Lexington, Kentucky at the Kentucky Horse Park and it is put on by Breyer Model Horses, a division of Reeves International. This event showcases some of the top talents in the equine industry and boasts a theme each year to show off those equines. Besides seeing real horses, there are so many plastic or model horses that you are able to purchase. But what does it take to get from the decision to go to BreyerFest to actually attending the event? *Virtual aspect is included.
Hotels and Travel Plans
First and foremost, you will need to look up hotels in the area, if you are traveling. Hotels sell out quickly during this event and the host hotel, the Clarion Hotel, is sold out over a year in advance. Road To BreyerFest offers a list of hotels that are within driving distance of the Kentucky Horse Park so that you will always have a start to finding a place to stay while attending the event. You will also need to look into renting a vehicle as well. While Lexington, Ky does have a public transit system, it does not travel to the Kentucky Horse Park and the ride share companies/taxis are not reliable in the area during the hours of operation for BreyerFest. Breyer does offer a shuttle, however the locations are limited, but there is more on the shuttle later.
Recommended Hotels per Road To BreyerFest: Residence Inn by Marriott Lexington City Center, Embassy Suites by Hilton Lexington / UK Coldstream, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Georgetown, KY, GLo Best Western Lexington, Fairfield Inn & Suites Lexington North, Home2 Suites by Hilton Georgetown, Baymont by Wyndham Georgetown, Lexington Griffin Gate Marriott Golf Resort & Spa
Comfort Suites, Hampton Inn Lexington/Georgetown,
Clarion, La Quinta, Holiday Inn Express Frankfort – 20 mins from the Kentucky Horse Park, Marriott, Country Inn and Suites by Radisson, Baymont by Wyndham, Motel 6, Winner’s Circle, Best Western Plus, Comfort Suites, Microtel Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Home 2 Suites by Hilton, Fairfield, The Kentucky Horse Park Campground.
Once you have found a hotel, a vehicle or a way to get around during your stay, it is time to look into travel expenses. Will you be flying? Will you be driving? Make sure to look into discounts of air fare at this time, if you will be flying. BreyerFest always takes place during July and it is always at the Kentucky Horse Park. There are four airports near Lexington, so make sure that you choose the one that suits you the best.
Airports Close To Lexington
Lexington Blue Grass Airport (7.7 miles / 12.4 kilometers) LEX
Louisville International Airport (69.7 miles / 112.2 kilometers) SDF
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (74.0 miles / 119.2 kilometers) CVG
Huntington Tri-State Airport (107.6 miles / 173.2 kilometers) H
If you are attending the Virtual aspect of BreyerFest, you will not need to delve into finding a hotel or transportation, however you will need to focus a bit on making sure that your equipment can handle it. Are you running a PC? If so, I recommend making sure that your chair is comfy (you won’t want to leave it!). Can you stream to a larger screen such as a television? Many people found that streaming to a larger screen really helped them be able to get into the spirit of the event when watching the equine demonstrations and the Live feed. Make sure that your PayPal address and information is up to date. Make sure that your Breyer account has the correct shipping information on it before buying your BreyerFest Tickets- your Event models will be automatically shipped to the address that is on file when you purchase your tickets.
Visiting Other Locations
While I do have a small blurb of other locations to visit in the FB group as well as other places, I will not be posting that list here. It is HUGE! However, I do want to say that most of the horse farms and stallion tours do take reservations and they sell out FAST! Make sure that if you are wanting to tour a farm, please make your reservation as soon as you know what you want to do.
BreyerFest Funding
After those initial plans, it is time to start thinking about funds, tickets, and more! Let’s begin with the funding. BreyerFest is costly, but you want to factor in travel expenses before you think about the plastic pony money. You will need gas money, food money, money in case something happens, and definitely money in order to get back home. After those expenses are sorted out, it is time to start talking about the BreyerFest Funds for those plastic ponies and tickets! BreyerFest Tickets come in three different levels for the in person events- VIP, All Access, and General Access Tickets. Each one comes with it’s own prices, models, and more and they each offer a different experience to BreyerFest, in their own way. I recommend taking around $500 to $600 for BreyerFest purchases, however if you are looking to purchase an Auction Model, your funds will need to be much, much higher as the Auction Models sell for a minimum of four figures. Do not let others know how much that you are planning to take- keep yourself safe.
Cash or Card
Taking Cash or Card is up to you. However, here are a few things that I have learned along the way: Many vendors do not accept card, especially at the Clarion. The internet is way too spotty to allow it. However, some will take PayPal, but that just depends on the person. Breyer will definitely accept card and cash, but they will not accept checks. Many of the ATMs located in and around the Kentucky Horse Park and the Clarion will be out of money and since it is a weekend, they will not be restocked until the following Monday. There are many banks nearby, though, and that is a great place to get cash, if you need it. Always let your Credit/Debit card company or bank know that you are traveling and that they will see transactions from many, many different places as you are attending a convention. Nowadays, they will tell you that this is not necessary due to the chips in the cards, however it certainly does not hurt to have a record of it on your bank, just in case they decide to shut down your card. Taxes are already worked into the BreyerFest models from Breyer for the in person event, however when you purchase online, you will need to pay taxes as well as shipping.
Virtually, you will be purchasing your BreyerFest models from the Breyer website so you will be able to pay for them as you normally do. Breyer does ask that you have everything sent to the address on file so as to keep everything smooth and so that no one looses a box or two. You will be paying for shipping for each transaction. As for the virtual vendors, some may take PayPal and some may take other types of payment. Make sure to ask what they take, if it is not listed.
In Person Tickets
The VIP Ticket is the most costly ticket. If you are a die hard BreyerFest/ plastic horse person, then this is the ticket for you. This is also the ticket for you, if you want to be able to absolutely guarantee that you will get the models that you are wanting to get. This ticket costs a base price of $240 plus the cost of two Special Runs and two Limited Editions. You must purchase the two Special Runs and the two Limited Editions. With the VIP Ticket, you will be receiving one full set of the Event Stablemates, one of the Celebration Horses, the ability to select and purchase two Special Runs, the ability to select and purchase two Limited Editions, the ability to purchase more Limited Editions during BreyerFest, a complimentary parking pass, the ability to enter contests (provided that you meet the requirements), the ability to enter the Model Horse Shows, and so much more. Don’t worry about what the models are called right now, there will be an explanation about them coming soon!
The All Access Ticket is the next step down, however this ticket is the absolutely perfect ticket for those that are new to BreyerFest, those that are children or have children, and those that just want to be able to experience everything that BreyerFest has to offer. This ticket is $90 and comes with the ability to purchase two Special Runs using the Special Run Preference List in the Spring. This ticket comes with one Celebration Horse, the ability to purchase up to two Special Runs using a list called the Special Run Preference List (more on that later), the ability to purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest, the ability to purchase a parking pass, the ability to enter the contests (provided that you meet the requirements), the ability to enter the Model Horse Shows, and so much more.
The General Access Ticket is the final step down for the in person ticket. This ticket is the best selection for those that are attending with you, but are not fully interest in the event or small children or even yourself, if you are attending the event for your child. This ticket is $30. This ticket comes with one randomly selected Event Stablemate, the ability to purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest, the ability to purchase a parking pass, and so much more.
BreyerFest Model Terms
Before we go into Tickets anymore, let’s take a look at what the different terms for the models available during BreyerFest mean. There are Event Models, which are the models that come with the tickets. The Event Models are the Traditional sized Celebration Horse and a series of four Stablemates that are themed directly towards the event. With the VIP Ticket, you will receive one of the Celebration Horses and one full set of the Event Stablemates. With the All Access Ticket, you will receive one of the Celebration Horses and you are able to purchase a full set of the Event Stablemates at the BreyerFest Store at the event. With the General Access Ticket, you will receive one random Event Stablemate and you are able to purchase a full set of the Event Stablemates at the BreyerFest Store at the event.
As we continue with the Model Terms, you will see Special Runs, Limited Editions, and other models. The Special Runs are a series of nine models that are released for certain tickets to purchase during the event. These models are named themed on the event, however their colors and breeds might not have much to do with the event. These models are available to VIP and All Access Tickets. You will see Limited Edition models as well. These models are available to all ticket holders to purchase during BreyerFest at the BreyerFest Store. These are a series of around three to four Traditional sized horses, typically portrait horses of Guest Horses, one Freedom/Classic sized model that is a decorator that relates to the event, a single stablemate that may or may not relate to the event, a set of Stablemates that are modeled after previous BreyerFest models, a Crystal model, a plush model, and whatever else Breyer wishes to add. Then there are Prize models, Raffle Models, Auction Models, and so much more. However, the Event Models, the Special Run Models, and the Limited Edition Models are the most important models to worry about.
A Blurb About Model Sizes
Breyer has their own sizes regarding their model horses and these sizes do differ from those used all over the miniature world. The following sizes are Breyer measurements: Traditional size- 1:9 scale, Classic/Freedom size- 1:12 scale, Crystal/Curio size- 1:20 scale, and Stablemate size- 1:32 scale. I have added only the ones that are important to BreyerFest itself. Again, please be aware that these scales are for Breyer models only and do not always align with the scales of other miniatures.
Tickets Once Again- Buying Them
Tickets go on sale after the first of the year, typically around February. All tickets go on sale at the same time, from the in person tickets to the virtual tickets. However, Add-Ons are not available for purchase during this time. When tickets go on sale, you will notice that you are able to purchase as many tickets as you want, but there are typically limits to how many that you are able to purchase per transaction. The VIP Ticket has a limit of two tickets per transaction, the other tickets have a limit of six tickets per transaction. BreyerFest tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.
You do not have to purchase all the same kind of ticket, if you are buying more than one ticket. You can mix and match ticket types, especially if you have several people in your group or you are just looking for certain models. You are able to purchase one VIP, several All Access, and even a couple of General Access Tickets. You are not limited to how you purchase them either. As long as you buy them before they are sold out. We do not know how many of each ticket is available to the public, but Breyer does tell us when tickets are getting close to selling out or when they will no longer be available for sale.
Children under the age of six do not need to have a ticket, however they will not be able to receive a model. Only ticket holders will be able to get the Event Model that comes with the ticket.
The ticket itself is a wrist band and Breyer will not replace it, if you lose it.
Purchasing the VIP Ticket is a bit different than any other ticket. It does take more steps to purchase than the other tickets. When you purchase a VIP Ticket, you will need to select the two Special Runs and the two Limited Editions that you want from the drop down menus. If you do not see these drop down menus, you will need to change your browser or clear the cookies/cache. Once you have selected the two Special Runs and the two Limited Editions, you will then need to select an evening for the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance. After you do that, you can then add it to your cart. If you are looking to purchase a second VIP Ticket, but do not want to duplicate the exact same models, you will need to copy the above for the second ticket and then go to the cart and purchase your tickets. The VIP Ticket will cost over $500 per ticket, if done correctly. Breyer will not adjust your models, so make sure that you select the ones that you want before you pay for them. VIP Ticket sales end at 5 PM EDT on March 31st or whenever they are sold out.
Purchase the other ticket types are much easier than the VIP Ticket. When you go to the Ticket Purchase Page, you will need to select the evening for the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance and then select if you wish to purchase a Parking Pass as well. You are limited to one Parking Pass per transaction- it costs $13. You are able to add up to six tickets to the cart per transaction. With the All Access Ticket and Online Traditional Access Ticket- You will NOT be buying or selecting your Special Runs at this time. If you purchase your tickets before the Spring Cut Off Date- you will be using the Special Run Preference list to rank the Special Runs in the order that you like them. If you purchase your tickets after the cut off date- you will be receiving a Wild Card Redemption Ticket that will allow you to select from the Special Runs that are available at the event (Online Traditional Access Ticket holders will receive a random selection after the cut off date.).
Tickets will be mailed out in late Spring to US Residents. All other in person ticket holders will need to pick up their tickets from Will Call, starting on Thursday before the event and you will need to show ID or have a note from the ticket holder with a receipt from Breyer stating that you are allowed to pick up the ticket, per Breyer.
Virtual BreyerFest Attendees will not receive a Ticket Book- Your account is your ticket.
Ticket Add-Ons
Once you have figured out tickets and which one that you want to purchase, you will need to decide if you are going to do any add-ons for BreyerFest. Add-ons for BreyerFest are Workshops, entry into the model horse shows, and anything else that Breyer wishes to add. You do not need to do these Add-Ons, but they are there if you wish to do so. They do cost extra and you must buy registration once it becomes available on the Breyer website, however they do sell out fast so keep that in mind.
Workshops are available to VIP and All Access Ticket Holders only. These workshops have an age range of ages 8 years of age to older, however many are focused on older participants as there are sharp objects that are being used. Don’t worry, there are plenty of things to do for the littles besides workshops. This year, the workshops will take place in the South Expo Hall of the Altech Arena. You will need to register and pay for them in advance when they become available. Once you have paid for and secured the workshop, you will need to print out the order number receipt and take that with you to the event. This will be your ticket since there are no physical tickets for workshops- you do register with the name of the participant though. You are able to attend as many workshops as you want. If your child is wanting to participate in a workshop, but you are not interested in taking the workshop or you just want to be there to watch your child, there will be an area to watch them during the workshop.
Model Horse Shows are available to VIP and All Access Ticket Holders only. There are several different model horse shows to choose from during the event- from the super competitive BreyerFest Live Open Show to the Youth and Children’s Show and even a resin only model horse show! Each one will need you to register in advance and do cost extra. There are even some virtual shows this year, which are photo type shows that take place on the PonyBytes website. If you are new to showing and have a VIP, All Access, or an Online Traditional Access Ticket, I recommend participating in the Breyer Boot Camp that takes place before BreyerFest. This photo show on PonyBytes will definitely help you start to learn about showing model horses and what is to be expected of your models during the show.
Children and BreyerFest
Many parents want to take their children to BreyerFest and that is awesome! But many people are curious as to what they can do and what they cannot do with children at BreyerFest. You are able to buy your child a different ticket than yourself and you will be able to go through lines with them, if you need to do so. Breyer definitely does not want an unattended child running around.
However, let me give you some tips in order to make it a great experience: First, if you purchased your child a VIP Ticket, that is wonderful! However, the person that is wearing the VIP Ticket will be the only person that is able to go through the line and pay for the models. For this, I recommend slipping the VIP Wristband on yourself and the other wristband on the child, if you are going to go through the line with them. They will still be able to be with you, but you will be the one picking up the models.
If your child wants to attend a workshop and they qualify for the ages, you will need to make sure to register them for the workshop before it sells out. Make sure that you list their name as the participant. Once at the event, there will be a place for you to sit and watch your child, however you will not be able to attend to the child during the workshop. If your child is under the age of eight years of age, Stablemate Painting is offered for free behind the Covered Arena during the event and this might definitely be more fun for them than a structured workshop.
There is a whole section of BreyerFest that is entirely dedicated to kids and it is awesome! There are circus performers, pony rides, a petting zoo, an area to dig in, dogs that jump into water, and even a jumping contest just for kids! This is located in the Celebration Park, near the Covered Arena.
Kids are allowed in the Collector Club Tent with their parents, last that I was able to check. If you have questions at the event, the Breyer Staff at the tent entrance will always answer your questions, especially if you just want to sit in the shade a bit with your Tiny Humans.
The Celebration of Horses Evening Performance
While buying your tickets, you had to select either Friday or Saturday night and if you are new to BreyerFest, you likely have no idea what this is about. The Evening Performance is a great thing to watch. Younger kids might not be as into it as the older kids and adults will be, so definitely keep that in mind. This performance is a story that is told through horses and humans and is choreographed by Sylvia Zerbini, who is legendary in her own right for training stallions to work at liberty and being totally awesome. This performance usually runs for about two hours and is in an air conditioned arena. There are plenty of seats, restrooms, and even snack bars that will be open. I always recommend watching it at least once in the time that you attend BreyerFest. It will be live streamed to all BreyerFest Ticket holders through the Breyer website.
Quick Virtual Input
Whew, we have covered a lot and there is still a lot more to cover. I want to take this moment to include the virtual aspect. If the in person BreyerFest just is not your thing or you cannot swing it, money wise, the virtual event is always an option. To me, it is an ideal option because you have air conditioning, the comfort of your own home, and you can get all of the snacks and drinks that you want without needing to spend money or wait in line. I guess that you could stand at your fridge for a bit, if you want a line.
Online BreyerFest Tickets
The virtual tickets go on sale at the same time as the in person tickets and there are two options for this aspect of the event. There is the Online Traditional Access Ticket which comes with one Celebration Horse model, access to purchase one Special Run, access to purchase the Limited Editions, access to the virtual contest (rules and regulations apply), and so much more. This ticket costs $65 and the Celebration Horse Model will be shipped to the address on the Breyer website during July, so many sure that your address is correct when you purchase your BreyerFest Tickets. The Online Stablemate Access Ticket comes with one randomly selected Event Stablemate, access to purchase the Limited Editions during BreyerFest, and more. This ticket costs $25. You are able to purchase up to six of these tickets per transaction and you can definitely mix and match them, if you wish to do so.
Buying Special Runs for All Access and Online Traditional Access
With the All Access and the Online Traditional Access Tickets, you are able to purchase Special Runs. There is a special way that you will be able to do this and it can be very confusing. You will be using the Special Run Preference List. You will not be selecting and buying Special Runs at the time that you purchase your ticket, that is something that is reserved only for the VIP Ticket Holders. If you purchase your ticket before the Spring cut off date, you will be using the Special Run Preference List. If you purchase your ticket after the Spring cut off date or you miss the list time frame, you will be receiving random selections for your Special Runs. For the In Person Ticket, you will be receiving a Wild Card Redemption Ticket, which allows you to purchase one Special Run per Redemption Ticket from the remaining stock on hand. That could mean that some Special Runs are sold out. For the virtual Ticket, this means that you will be given a random Special Run from the selection available to purchase. You absolutely do not need to purchase these models, if you do not wish to do so.
Breyer uses an unreleased algorithm to select the Special Runs for your account and the selections could potentially be sold out during your imaginary spot in line. If something is sold out, you could potentially get a Wild Card Redemption Ticket to select your Special Run from the remaining stock on hand during the event. If you choose the No Other Options selection, you could potentially be out of a Special Run, if they are sold out.
Using the Special Run Preference List takes a lot more to explain than it does to actually experience it, so please keep that in mind. The Special Run Preference List is just a way to rank the Special Runs in the order that you like them and let Breyer know which ones that you would prefer over other ones. This List does not guarantee that you will get your top listed models. There are two different ways to fill out this list, both work for multiple tickets.
The first way is the Individual List. This is where you will go through each ticket that you have on your account and rank the Special Runs for each ticket. This way offers a little more control over how you rank the models and gives a lesser chance of getting duplicates, however it is time consuming and you are still not guaranteed that you will not get duplicates or that your selections will be available during your “time slot”. Make sure to rank the Special Runs in the order that you prefer. No one can tell you how you want to rank them and no one can tell you what their prices will be second hand yet. Once you have ranked the Special Runs, I recommend taking a screenshot before pushing the submit button. You should receive a Green Check, indicating that Breyer has received your List. You are able to change you list as many times as you want, Breyer will only accept the last one submitted.
The second way is the Master List. This is where you will use one list to rank all of the Special Runs for as many tickets as you have on your account. You are able to mix and match the Special Runs at your heart’s content, just make sure that you rank them in the order that you want them. With this list, you will rank the Special Runs in the order that you like them, using as many numbers as you have tickets- so if you have three tickets on your account, you will have three sets of numbers 1 to 9. This option gives you a little less control and more room for duplicates, however it is a great way to do the Special Run Preference List all in one go. No one can tell you how you want to rank them and no one can tell you what their prices will be second hand yet. Once you have ranked the Special Runs, I recommend taking a screenshot before pushing the submit button. You should receive a Green Check, indicating that Breyer has received your List. You are able to change you list as many times as you want, Breyer will only accept the last one submitted.
No matter which Special Run Preference List that you use, you will not actually be paying for your Special Runs until BreyerFest in July.
Buying Limited Editions
Buying the Limited Edition models are much easier than buying the Special Runs. Limited Edition models are available to all ticket holders and will be available to purchase at the BreyerFest Store and online at the BreyerFest Store on the Breyer website. With the VIP Ticket, you selected and paid for two Limited Editions, however you are allowed to purchase more at the event itself. The only restriction to buying Limited Editions is that you can only purchase one of each kind during one transaction, however you are allowed to make as many transactions as you want. At the in person event, this does mean that you need to leave the store, check the back into Bag Check or have a trusted friend or group member hold your bag, and get back in line to go through the store again. In Person Ticket Holders are able to purchase Limited Editions off of the BreyerFest Store on the Breyer website, including the two Online Only Limited Editions. Models purchased off of the website will ship after BreyerFest.
Ticket Books
Once you have purchased your BreyerFest Tickets, you will need to wait for quite some time before they are actually sent out. However, do be aware that BreyerFest Tickets are only shipped to Domestic US Residents, unless otherwise specified. If you live outside of the US, you will need to pick up your Ticket Books from Will Call starting on Thursday July 13th. When you have your Ticket Books, you will notice that they are now in book form. This allows you to have a physical map of BreyerFest, a short FAQ about the event, and it keeps all of your tickets in the same place. Your Admission Wristband will be looped over this book, so please be careful. If you have more than one ticket, you might get more than one Ticket Book, however last year, they tried to combine them as much as they could. Inside the Ticket Book, you will have Redemption Tickets for the Event Models, Redemption Tickets for the Special Runs (if it is a VIP or an All Access Ticket), a Ticket to the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance, a map of the park, and the Parking Pass (if you purchased one or it is a VIP Ticket. Please do not lose this Ticket Book or any of the tickets inside of it. Breyer will not replace lost or stolen Tickets. These Redemption Tickets are needed at BreyerFest and you must have the Admission Wristband in a visible location when you arrive to the event.
A Pause
Everything up to this point has talked about all of the planning, even though it seems like more! BreyerFest is expensive and you might be reeling right now, however I want to pause and take a moment to say that if attending the in person BreyerFest is what you want to do, then go for it! If you buy your tickets early and start saving, you will have some funds ready by the time that BreyerFest rolls around. That is how I am able to afford BreyerFest.
If you feel that planning an in person BreyerFest is too much, the virtual event offers a lot more than people realize and while you do not have the intensity of meeting others, many hobbyists (including Road To BreyerFest) have meet and greets for the online participants where you can log into a voice call, talk about BreyerFest and the model horse hobby, and so much more. No matter what you plan to do, there is always something to experience. After this point, I will be discussing the things that happen at both the in person and the virtual events, from the shopping to the guest horses and so much more in between.
I have covered all of the beginning of the planning up until this point. From here on, I will be going over what you can expect during BreyerFest and what you might want to experience. Please know that absolutely no one can tell you what you want to experience. Make this your own Adventure and make it something that you will remember forever. Don’t over plan your day and my advice is to just let the adventure happen on some days. You don’t need to do every workshop, seminar, or activity to make it a one of a kind BreyerFest experience, but you do need to have fun. I remember the one year that I showed up in my pajamas and just walked through the horse barns. It was so relaxing and I will remember it for years to come. Also, don’t forget to check out the Kentucky Horse Park. The Kentucky Horse Park is an amazing place to visit and you will be able to see real horses from all over the world, breeds that you have only seen in photos or books, and you will learn so much about horses. It is always recommended so definitely do not miss out on it!
What To Expect At BreyerFest
While BreyerFest is focused around model horses and real horses alike, there is still a wide variety of things that you will find during BreyerFest. There is also a lot to experience it. It is nearly impossible to do everything at BreyerFest in one day and it is really hard to do it all in one weekend! However, there are some things that you might not want to miss out on or you might not know when you are able to pick up some things.
Redeeming those Redemption Tickets
After you have received your tickets, you will see that you have Redemption Tickets for certain models. These tickets are absolutely necessary in order to actually get those models from BreyerFest. If you are not attending BreyerFest in person, but have an in person ticket, these models will not be mailed to you. You will need to find someone that can pick them up for you. When redeeming your models, you have all weekend in order to do this. From the time that BreyerFest opens on Friday morning until BreyerFest ends on Sunday, you have time to get those tickets redeemed. However, with how Breyer is doing the lines now, there will always be a line. Keep that in mind when heading over there or planning when you are going to pick them up. There are certain sections for the Event Models (your Celebration Horse Model and the Event Stablemates), the Special Runs (both the Redemption Tickets and the Wild Cards), and the VIP Line (where you will redeem your VIP tickets). These lines will be labeled clearly and there will be Breyer Staff on hand in order to help you find the correct line. Make sure that you have your tickets ready! You are not going to be paying for the Event Models- the Celebration Horse and/or the Event Stablemates- as they come with your tickets. You will be paying for the Special Runs, if you have an All Access Ticket. VIP Ticket Holders will be redeeming their tickets for the models that they have already paid for in their line- only VIP Ticket Holders can redeem the VIP Redemption Tickets.
Virtually Getting Your Models
If you are attending Virtually, your Event Models will be mailed to the address on file when you purchased your BreyerFest Tickets. If this address has changed in between the time of buying the Tickets and the event, you MUST contact Breyer’s Customer Service and get that address changed immediately. You have all weekend to purchase your Special Run during BreyerFest.
The Limited Edition Models and BreyerFest Swag
Located in the BreyerFest Stores during the event (two in person and one online), you will be able to purchase the BreyerFest Limited Editions and a variety of BreyerFest Swag and other merchandise. Buying these models can be a tiny bit complicated, but it is nothing drastic at all. You are able to buy one Limited Edition of each kind during one transaction. If you want two of the same model, you will need to purchase one and then leave the store to get back in line and purchase the second one. You are not able to take bags into the BreyerFest Store, they must be checked at Bag Check.
In the BreyerFest Stores, you will find a variety of Regular Run items, Limited Editions, runs from previous BreyerFests, Warehouse Grab Bags, merchandise like tshirts, and so much more. You really never know what all that you will find in the BreyerFest Stores. In the virtual BreyerFest Store, you will find the current BreyerFest Swag, the Limited Editions, Grab Bags, and more. However, you will need to head to the rest of the Breyer website in order to purchase any of the Regular Runs.
The BreyerFest Stores are open all weekend long and the line dies down later in the afternoon. Things can and do sell out, however the store is restocked during the weekend. The virtual store is not restocked to my knowledge, but it definitely could be!
The Covered Arena
The main part of BreyerFest takes place in the Covered Arena. This is where you will find the Equine Demonstrations, the Vendor Marketplace, the Breyer Booth, the UPS Store (in the past), the BreyerFest Store, and more! There are restrooms here as well as a snack bar and there are definitely places to sit. The stands do fill up fast, so keep that in mind if you are wanting to sit down and watch the Equine Demonstrations.
The Covered Arena gets very crowded and it can be jam packed in certain places. Be very careful when checking out the merchandise in the vendor booths so as not to knock anything over. That being said, you never know what you will find there! From a variety of model horses to model horse tack to even real horse tack, the Vendor Marketplace really does have a lot to offer. There are also booths outside of the Covered Arena as well so make sure to check those out also.
The Breyer Booth is where you will find the Saturday and Sunday Raffles and you will be able to purchase tickets for that. Each year, there are two different Raffle Models made, one for Saturday and one for Sunday. There are a total of 26 of these models produced- 25 go to the Raffles and one is auctioned off during the Live Auction on Saturday Evening. Each Raffle ticket costs $2 and there are discounts for purchasing multiple tickets. You do need to be present to win. Also at the Breyer Booth, you will find the Silent Auction. This is a small collection of items for Auction that include a full set of the Surprise Special Run, gift baskets from the Guest Horses, Custom model horses, and so much more. You will have all weekend to walk by and place a bid, however on Sunday Afternoon, it becomes a Live Auction in the last few minutes when the things are sold off.
The UPS Store is typically in the Covered Arena and will help you ship your models home. Rates vary to different locations, packing materials, and more.
The BreyerFest Lounge and the Breyer Baby Lounge are also located in the Covered Arena. You do need to purchase tickets in order to access the BreyerFest Lounge and they are typically around $35. This is a Ticket Add-On that is presented later in the year as an option. There will be light refreshments provided and an air conditioned place to sit and watch the Equine Demonstrations. The Breyer Baby Lounge is a place to change diapers, feed, and just take a break from the loud bustle of BreyerFest for those with Tiny Humans.
Other Locations
The warm up arenas located to the side and behind the Covered Arena have fancy names and some times Breyer will use them when they are talking about a certain location. Off to the side of the Covered Arena, you will find the Walnut Schooling Ring. This is where you will find the Special Run Redemption Tent and the Model Handout Tent. This is where you will get the Event Models, the Special Runs, and the VIP Models. Behind the Covered Arena, you will find the Annex Ring. This is where you will find the Stablemate Painting Tent and the BreyerFest Store Tent location.
The Bag Check will be located next to the ramp entrance to the Walnut Schooling Ring. Bag Check is a short time holding service that is ran by volunteers of the local Lions Club. It can get quite hectic there and some times it is best to wait until the line dies down a bit.
The Celebration Park is located past the Covered Arena and over a fancy wooden bridge. The Celebration Park is where you will find Food Trucks, a Beer Garden, a Petting Zoo, Pony Rides, and so much more.
The Visitor’s Center is home to not only the Kentucky Horse Park Gift Shop, but it is home to the BreyerFest Seminars during BreyerFest. You can also see the Auction Models on Friday and Saturday of BreyerFest before they are auctioned off.
The Altech Arena is quite a walk from the Covered Arena, however it is a short drive away, if you take your car or ride the shuttle. The Altech Arena is home to the workshops, the BreyerFest Live Open model horse show, the BreyerFest Youth and Children’s Show, and the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance.
Behind the Annex Ring is the Horse Barns. These barns are home to the BreyerFest guest horses and all of the horses that will be performing during the BreyerFest Equine Demonstrations. You are allowed to walk through the barns and see the horses, talk to the owners, and more. Always ask before petting or feeding the horses, please.
Definitely do not forget to stop by the rest of the amazing Kentucky Horse Park while you are attending BreyerFest. From the Breeds Barn to the Big Barn to the Smithsonian affiliated Museums, you will not be disappointed in what the Kentucky Horse Park has to offer during your adventure.
For those attending virtually, the Live Feed will feature the Equine Demonstrations, interviews of Guest Horse owners, interviews from hobbyists, artists, and so much more. You never know what they might show you on the Live Feed! The Live Feed will be live during the hours of BreyerFest, but will be able to be replayed after the event, in case that you miss it. The Celebration of Horses Evening Performance will be streamed live during the Friday performance and then will be available on demand all weekend long.
The Clarion
A lot of BreyerFest talk surrounds the Clarion and many may be wondering just what that is and what happens there. First and foremost, the Clarion is the guest hotel for BreyerFest. However, much more happens there than just people staying during the weekend. The Clarion sells out quicker than any other hotel in the area, so getting on the wait list is important, if you want to stay there. However, it seems that this hotel is not always the most recommended for rest and relaxation during the event since the Room Sales happen there.
What are the Room Sales? This is where collectors or those that have models to sell open up their rooms and allow the general public to browse their sale/trade items. You can find deals of all sorts, models that you are looking for, and so much more throughout the rooms of the Clarion. Be warned, it gets crowded! Also, the Clarion is built like a maze, so make sure to take a small notebook with you to remember room numbers and what you want to go back for, if you need to do so. But more about these Room Sales- Each person that has their door open will likely be selling something or have something available for trade. They typically take cash only, however some do take Credit/Debit cards as well as PayPal. There are no general hours for this organized chaos as it is up to each and every seller. On a typical BreyerFest year, some of the rooms start opening up the Tuesday or Wednesday before BreyerFest, but the majority will definitely be open on Thursday before BreyerFest. You absolutely never know what you will find there and there will be deals to be had. I have seen anything from free models to $5 models on up to rare, one of a kind Breyer Auction models and tons of custom models.
The Parking Situation
The Clarion has the worst parking of any hotel that I have ever been to, and I have been to a lot of them. There, I said it. However, this can be remedied in the fact that Breyer does offer a shuttle on Thursday evening, Friday evening, and Saturday evening for those that want to head from the Kentucky Horse Park to the Clarion and back. There is a list of that entire schedule that will be posted when available. If you must drive there, make sure to park somewhat away from the main parts of the hotel- give the major places to those that are actually staying at the hotel. Last year, there was extra parking in a gravel lot and it made it easier. Just be aware of where you are parking so that your vehicle does not get towed.
Time for Real Talk
So up until now, this has all been planning and what things that you can do and look forward to, however what no one really wants to mention too much is the real aspects of this event. There is nothing truly horrible, no deep dark secrets, nothing like that. However, it is hot and it is humid and it is crowded. There are lines for everything, even when Breyer says that you do not need to wait in line, you will be waiting in line. You can bring your Credit/Debit card, however people don’t always tell you that the internet goes down at the Kentucky Horse Park a lot so you might not be checking out right away, if you do not have cash. There are ATMs, but they are usually out of money due to the large volume of people that are attending the event. People get cranky, even myself, and lash out, but there is more kindness than you will ever expect. People give away models, especially to kids. People trade models freely in front of the Special Run tent and everyone wants to see what you purchased, even if they bought the exact same thing. You will meet some of the most amazing people at BreyerFest in person and even online, you will find some groups that you will be right at home with. There are cliques, many of them, but there are cliques in every hobby. There is drama, but there is drama in every hobby. Look past that and have fun!
On Thursday afternoon/evening, people will start lining up to be some of the first into the BreyerFest Store at BreyerFest. You absolutely do not need to do this. In fact, it is starting to be recommended to not do this. I am dumb and I like to line up, but that is because I know that I will not be sleeping and I might as well spend time with other like minded individuals. Arrival time to the Kentucky Horse Park on Friday morning is completely up to you. Don’t let anyone tell you how to experience the event. The gates open at 9 AM EDT and the Opening Ceremonies is at 9:30 AM EDT, give or take a bit. If you want to attend that, I would recommend getting to the Kentucky Horse Park between 6 AM EDT and 7 AM EDT because there is a line that forms even for General Admission in the morning. However, if you are not wanting to watch the Opening Ceremonies, arriving after 10 AM EDT almost guarantees that you will not need to wait in line. You will be parking further from the entrance, but there are shuttles to get to the gate.
If you are showing in the Live Shows at BreyerFest, expect a long and grueling day. You will be inside and that is great, however BreyerFest Live is a fast paced, not beginner friendly show that runs from around 8 AM EDT to until 5 PM EDT or later. You will miss out on Workshops, seminars, and other things the day that you are showing, so keep that in mind. You might even miss out on the Celebration Of Horses Evening Performance as it can run late.
If you are wanting to participate in the Live Auction, there are a few things to know: The Live Auction is not just a Live Auction anymore. It opens up about a week before BreyerFest online and takes bids until the moment that it closes. However, on Saturday evening at BreyerFest, it becomes a Live Auction for those that want to participate in person. These models are NOT cheap, think a minimum of four figures.
The Raffles are talked about often, people wanting to know when they will be announced, how much the tickets are, etc. Breyer does not announced the Raffle Models until almost time for the event. In fact, you will see them in the program, if they release it early again, before Breyer will actually announce them. The raffles are for in person only and you must be present to win. There are two Raffle Models- one for Saturday and one for Sunday, however there are 26 pieces of each one made. 25 of go to those that purchased Raffle Tickets and win and one goes into the Live Auction.
Food is expensive at the Horse Park, both from the Park itself and the Food Trucks brought in. While Road To BreyerFest has a HUGE list of recommended restaurants that are somewhat local, we do not have a special list set aside for those with food allergies or special dietary needs. Use your intuition when it comes with the food and if needed, pack a lunch or snack. Coolers are allowed at the Kentucky Horse Park, just make sure to leave the glass containers and alcohol at home.
The Pandemic and BreyerFest
While not as much talked about anymore and many places not allowing this topic to be discussed, you do need to keep the pandemic in mind when planning to attend BreyerFest. Yes, you will be in crowded places, especially if you head to the Clarion. Yes, someone there might be sick. Testing does happen and many people wear masks, but transmission can still occur. Use your intuition when planning out your attendance, take precautions such as masking, and know that it might or might not happen. As someone who has asthma, I took several precautions in 2022 and did not get sick. Just be careful, stay away from those that look or act sick, and have fun!
What Happens Each Day?
BreyerFest is technically a three day event, however with events that officially start on Thursday, you could call it a four day event.
Thursday before BreyerFest
This is when the Artisan’s Gallery opens at the Clarion Hotel. Also, the Will Call will open up at the Clarion Hotel during certain hours so that you are able to pick up your tickets, if they were not mailed to you. The Swap Meet also has it’s first day on Thursday at the Clarion. There are no events at the Kentucky Horse Park on this day.
Friday of BreyerFest
This is opening day of BreyerFest. Gates open at 9 AM EDT and will close around 5 PM EDT. The BreyerFest entrance is at the Rolex Gate, which is next to the American Saddledbred Museum. There will definitely be signage to show you were you will need to enter. At 9:30 AM EDT, Opening Ceremonies will happen at the Covered Arena. There will be Equine Demonstrations (a showcase of different horse breeds and disciplines) all day in the Covered Arena, The Vendor Marketplace is open in the Covered Arena, Seminars will be running on a schedule (unreleased until the program is released) in the Visitor’s Center, Workshops happen on a schedule over in the Altech Arena, and the BreyerFest Live Open Show runs from 8 AM EDT until finished in the Altech Arena. In the evening at the Kentucky Horse Park, the Altech Arena becomes center stage for the Celebration Of Horses Evening Performance, which starts at 6 PM EDT.
Over at the Clarion, the second night of the Artisan’s Gallery is open and this is also the second and final day of the Swap Meet. The Room Sales will continue.
Saturday of BreyerFest
The gates to BreyerFest open at 9 AM EDT and will close around 5 PM EDT. The same things that happened during the day on Friday will happen on Saturday. The Live Show at the Altech Arena on Saturday is the BreyerFest Children’s and Youth Live Show and will run from around 8 AM EDT to whenever finished. Saturday afternoon brings up the Live Auction at 5 PM EDT in the Hall of Champions. This is where you are able to bid on test runs/ One of a Kind models directly from the archive room at Breyer headquarters. The Celebration of Horses Evening Performance also takes place on this day.
Over at the Clarion, you have the closing evening of the Artisan’s Gallery and the announcement of the Best Customs Contest winners. The Room Sales will continue
Sunday of BreyerFest
Things start winding down today. Gates open at 9 AM EDT and close around 4 PM EDT. The same things happen each day, however there are no Live Shows on this day and there is not a Celebration Of Horses Evening Performance. Closing Ceremonies take place around 3 PM EDT, give or take since these are live performers and all.
Over at the Clarion, Room Sales will start winding down but some do continue into Monday and Tuesday.
Shuttle Information
The Kentucky Horse Park Routes- runs approximately every 15 minutes
Red Route- This is a continuous route around the perimeter of BreyerFest. It will take you to certain stops throughthe parking lot and on the edges of BreyerFest itself. This is a great shuttle to take if you are parked out in the far end of the parking lot and need to get closer to the gates.
Blue Route- This is a straight shot from the Altech Arena to the Rolex Gate, which is the entrance of BreyerFest itself. It does not stop at any other location.
The Hotel Routes- runs approximately every 30 minutes
Green Route- This is the Clarion route which runs from the Kentucky Horse Park to the Clarion Hotel on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 5 PM EDT to 11:30 PM EDT.
Yellow Route- This is the Hotels route and it services the local hotels in the area- The Candlewood Inn and Suites, the Embassy Suites, Mainstay Suites and Quality Inn, and the Clarion. It does not go to any other local hotels. The hours are not listed, but it would appear to be the same as the Green Route.
Around the Park at BreyerFest
The Hobby Center
Known as the Hands On Hobby Tent in the past, this is a great place to learn from some of the hobby greats. From artists that will show you how to paint a model to customizers that show you how to hack up and reposition a model to make it something completely new, you will definitely find something to peak your interest here. Don’t forget to stop by, see what they are working on, and talk to them. You never know what you will learn about!
Diorama Contest
VIP and All Access Ticket Holders that are participating in this contest will need to drop off their entries at the Hobby Center Tent on Friday between 9 AM EDT and 5 PM EDT. Entries will be on display to the public until Saturday at 4 PM EDT and the winners will be announced by 1 PM EDT on Sunday. Unclaimed Dioramas will be discarded. Please make sure that you read all of the contest information before entering this contest, especially the fine print.
Special Run Line Tent
This HUGE Tent is being the place for three different things this year. VIP Ticket Holders will be picking up their models (all of them) using the Redemption Tickets in their Ticket Books here, All Access Ticket Holders will be picking up their Redemption Card Special Runs here as well as the Wild Card Redemption Card models here. For those with All Access Tickets, you are also able to pick up your Celebration Horse Models here as well.
Event Model Pickup Tent
Located next to the Special Run Line Tent, this tent is the place to pick up your Event Models for the All Access and the General Access Ticket Holders. This tent shares a line with the line tent for the BreyerFest store in the Covered Arena.
Collector Club Tent
Located at the foot of the ramp to the Covered Arena, this tent is open to Collector Club members only. Yes, you can take your kids inside. Please do not leave your kids unattended outside the tent- they might be used for bag holders! This is a place to sit down in some fans and shade, have some water, chat with Breyer staff, and see what the Collector Club and other Clubs have in store for the rest of the year.
Guest Horse Autographs
Over in the barns, there is a section that is highly spoken about. This is a place to meet, greet, and get the autographs of this year’s portrait models that are at BreyerFest. There will be a full schedule in the program that highlights when you will be able to see each horse and get that model signed and the full schedule will be posted here in the group as well. There will be staff members on hand to answer questions directly related to this area during the event. Signings are limited to 200 people each and numbers are handed out fifteen minutes before the horse’s session. This area is super busy, so it is recommended to stay where the Breyer staff says and definitely do not get in the way of the horses that are grazing, being worked, or being groomed.
The Altech Arena
Standing over by itself, away from the main area of the Kentucky Horse Park, stands the revolutionary Altech Arena. Air conditioned and with plenty of room, this arena is home to several things during BreyerFest.
BreyerFest Open Show and Children and Youth Show
The Open Show is Friday 7 AM EDT to 5 PM EDT and the Youth and Children’s Show is Saturday 8 AM EDT to 4 PM EDT. Located in the North Exhibit Hall, you do need to pre-register to attend these Shows. Registration will be announced soon and there will be a post in this group. These entries sell out fast! Guests are welcome to come observe and you can look around at all of the awesome models, however definitely do not touch and be very careful not to disturb anyone.
Workshops
Located in the South Exhibit Hall in the Altech Arena, these workshops are a great hand on introduction to all things model horse. Workshops are open to VIP and All Access Ticket Holders and you will need to re-register before the event. These will be released soon and do sell out fast. If you are a parent and you want your child to attend the workshop, you will need to be with them. If you are wanting to participate in the workshop alongside your child, you will need to register for the workshop as well.
The BreyerFest 5K
Taking place on Sunday during BreyerFest, this benefit 5K runs a lovely route around a portion of the Kentucky Horse Park, starting at the Altech Arena. You will need to register in advance. This can be done online after BreyerFest Tickets go on sale or before the race on Sunday at 6:30 AM EDT. There are awards handed out after the race. Each participant will receive a BreyerFest 5K finisher’s medal and a commemorative t-shirt. Packet pick up and onsite registration will take place Friday and Saturday near the Covered Arena.
Other Activities Around The Kentucky Horse Park During BreyerFest
These are free activities that you can experience during the event. Some might include things that you can purchase and some might be entirely free.
Stablemate Painting
This FREE activity is open to all ages, parents and kids alike. Located in the Annex ring, which is behind the Covered Arena, this large tent is the location to paint some pretty ponies. This activity is limited to one per person per day. If there is a lot of demand, they might limit it to just kids for a time period.
The Celebration Park
Located to the side of the Covered Arena, away from it and across a lovely bridge, this is place for all of the free activities. There are pony rides, a petting zoo, a kid’s jumping contest, circus performers and face painting, the Big Dig, Dock Dogs, and a Car Show! In this area, there will be a Beer Garden and food trucks so that you can rest and relax in the shade with some good entertainment and refreshments.
The Visitors Information Center
This is the place to preview all of the Live Auction models on Friday before the Auction on Saturday evening.
This is also the place for the free Seminars. These seminars are open to all ticket holders and are about 60 minutes long and feature a wide array of presenters. The complete list and schedule will be released in the Program and posted in the group when available.
The Kentucky Horse Park
Included in your BreyerFest Ticket is admission to the greatest place in the world for equine lovers, the Kentucky Horse Park. Some things to not miss out on as you adventure around the park is:
The Hall of Champions
The Breeds Barn
The Kid’s Barn
The Big Barn
The International Museum of the Horse
The American Saddlebred Museum
The Gift Shop (Some Breyers are sold there)
and so many other things to see and do.
There will also be several live horse shows during BreyerFest weekend so if you feel up to it, take a stroll to the arena where they are happening and check them out! Spectators are always welcome.
The Virtual Event
I have talked non stop about the in person event because there is much more to it than the virtual event, however that does not dismiss the virtual event at all. There is a lot for those that are attending virtually to experience.
Workshops
There are pre-recorded workshops that you will be able to watch and follow along with. You will need to purchase the supplies yourself in advance though. These workshops will be announced closer to the event itself.
Seminars
Last year, the seminars were live streamed from the in person event. While it caused some issues, they were available on demand the rest of the weekend, if I remember correctly. These seminars are free and cover a variety of topics from real horses to model horses.
Live Feed
The Live Feed will happen Live daily during the hours of BreyerFest and will be available on demand after BreyerFest ends for the day. You will get special interviews with BreyerFest attendees, artists, guest horse owners, and more!
BreyerFest Store
The virtual BreyerFest Store is open all weekend long and you will be able to shop Limited Editions and BreyerFest Merch from there. You will be paying for shipping and there is no word on how that will work this year.
Hands On Hobby Demonstrations
These are pre-recorded videos from some of the hobby greats that will showcase how to do things from customizing models to creating tack.
There will be so much more that has not been announced yet and sometimes, Breyer loves to surprise us so you never know what you might find while browsing the Breyer website during the virtual event.
In Conclusion
While there are still some things to come, this is about it for now. BreyerFest is overwhelming and there is no denying that. However, if you take it slow and don’t over plan your day, you will have a great adventure. Just be prepared for the heat and humidity, bring extra clothes and bags to take those models home, and make sure to check in with the Guides on Road To BreyerFest.
I hope that this has helped you! There will likely be more added to this when more things get released and when the complete schedule is released to add in those times and events.
