Let’s Talk BreyerFest...A Quick FAQ, That Is!

 Let’s Talk BreyerFest...Answering Those Early Frequently Asked Questions, That Is!

BreyerFest is just starting to be planned, but some times, it might feel that you are weeks, months, or even years behind. Let me assure you that you are perfectly on time! There might be some questions that you have in the early planning and I hope to answer them here quickly, but also, the answers are always in the Let’s Talk BreyerFest Guide here in the group. All of the information here comes straight from the Breyer website and a little bit of experience from myself and many other BreyerFest Veterans.

*When do tickets go on sale? Breyer will start selling BreyerFest tickets in February 2023.

*Where can I find a list of recommended hotels? In the BreyerFest for Beginners Guide here in the group, there is a list of hotels that are recommended by BreyerFest Veterans here in the group. This Guide also contains a recommended list for restaurants and other places to visit.

*Which ticket is best for me? When it comes to BreyerFest tickets, you need to think about what you want to be able to purchase and what you want to experience. Each ticket comes with one model, depending on the ticket type, and you will be able to purchase the Limited Editions with every ticket type. You can read more about each ticket type in the Let’s Talk BreyerFest Guide under Which Ticket Is Best For Me.

*Do all BreyerFest Tickets come with a model? Yes, but which ticket it is depends on which model that you will get. With a VIP Ticket, you will get one Celebration Horse Model and one Full Set of Event Stablemates. With the All Access Ticket, you will get one Celebration Horse. With the General Access Ticket, you will get one randomly selected Event Stablemate. With the Online Traditional Access Ticket, you will get one Celebration Horse Model shipped to your address on file. With the Online Stablemate Access Ticket, you will get one randomly selected Event Stablemate shipped to your address on file.

*What is a Limited Edition? For BreyerFest, the Limited Editions are models that can be purchased by every ticket holder. Typically, there are three Traditional sized portrait models of Guest Horses at BreyerFest, one Freedom/Classic Sized model, one Plushie, one Stablemate, one Crystal that is between Freedom and Stablemate Scale, one set of Stablemates, and anything else that Breyer wants to add. Last year, they added a Traditional sized model and a Stablemate sized model that were only available to be purchased online. You are able to buy as many of these models as you want during the event, however they are typically limited to one per each kind per trip through the checkout.

*What is a Special Run? For BreyerFest, the Special Run models are models that can only be purchased by certain ticket holders. There are typically nine models in total, eight equine models and one other animal model. There is typically one vintage mold, one decorator colored model, and one Surprise Special Run that will not be revealed until the first one is opened at BreyerFest. The models typically do not have anything to do with the theme of BreyerFest, but their names will. The VIP, All Access, and Online Traditional Access ticket holders are allowed to purchase Special Runs.

*How do I buy Special Runs? There will be a much, much more in depth post in the Let’s Talk BreyerFest Guide, but for now, here is the quick rundown- The VIP Ticket Holders will select the two Special Runs that they want and will pay for them at the time that they purchase their tickets. The All Access and the Online Traditional Access Ticket holders will use the Special Run Preference List later in Spring where you will rank the Special Runs in order of how you like them and Breyer will select the ones for your account to purchase based on that list. You will then be buying the Special Runs at BreyerFest. It is much, much more complicated to type out and explain than it is to do it, so you totally got this!

*How much money should I take? That is a question that only you can answer, however my guideline is always to make sure that you have enough for your hotel, gas, food, and plenty of models. I have done BreyerFest with $25 and trading and selling models and with $2000 and no trading or selling. The typical amount that people recommend is around $1500 for spending, unless you want to attempt to buy an Auction model, which are typically $$$$ and higher. All that I ask is that you do not announce exactly how much that you are planning to take so that everyone stays safe.

*Do I have to purchase the Celebration Horse after I buy my ticket? No, your Celebration Horse automatically comes with your ticket. At the in person event, you will need to pick it up. The virtual attendees will have theirs sent to them.

*Is tax included in the prices? For the in person ticket holders, yes. For the virtual ticket holders, last year you had to pay tax and shipping on top of the listed prices. Once that information is revealed for 2023, it will be definitely be posted.

*Do I have to pay for shipping with a virtual event ticket? Last year, you had to pay shipping with each purchase made during BreyerFest. Shipping information has not been released yet for this year, however as soon as it is, it will be shared here.

*Is BreyerFest handicapped accessible? Yes, it is. There are some obstacles and it is hot and humid, however technically the event is accessible to everyone. Please check out the post in the BreyerFest for Beginners Guide about this.

*I am a Collector Club member, do I get a discount on tickets? No, they are no longer offering discounts on BreyerFest tickets for Collector Club members. However, they do have other things planned. At this time, we are not sure what these other things are.

*How many models can I buy? How many do you want to buy? That is the real question! However, it does break down and there are certain limits. At an in person event, you can buy as many Limited Edition models as you want, no matter what ticket type that you have.

*What is best, cash or credit? Well, most people will tell you that cash is king. But many people do accept PayPal and many other forms of credit card payments. If you are coming to Kentucky from out of state, please let your bank know that you are traveling so that they do not shut down your card during the weekend.

*Are there local farms to tour? Yes, many of them require you to sign up in advance though so definitely keep that in mind. Old Friends is a fan favorite as you will get to see some retired race horses and learn about their stories. They are also many famous Thoroughbred farms nearby that have amazing tours.

As we wait for the models and more information to be released for BreyerFest, please make sure to read over the Guides here in this group and always feel free to ask questions. I know that there is a lot of information to read and that it can be crazy, but the answers to many questions are in the Guides and if your question is not in there, I definitely want to add it there! I cannot wait to help you plan the best BreyerFest Adventure that you can have and I cannot wait to meet and talk to you during BreyerFest!  

Let's Talk BreyerFest...The Best Customs Contest, That Is!

 Let’s Talk BreyerFest...The Best Customs Contest, That Is!

Roadies, it is that time of our BreyerFest planning that Breyer releases the information and details for the Best Customs Contest and that is also the time when the most heated comments will come out. I am asking you to please, please, please not comment your disdain on the exclusion of certain states and countries on this post. I will attempt to do my best to explain why they are excluded, however there is nothing that Breyer nor this group can do about it since it is heavily centered in the laws of your state or country. AZ, CO, MD, NE, ND and VT are excluded from entering the contest, Canada is excluded from entering the contest, and all other International locations are excluded from entering the contest. Now the reason: I had spent nearly four months trying to figure out why these places were excluded last year and have emailed many law enforcement facilities and I came to the conclusion that this contest is considered gambling in a way as are the rest of the contests from Breyer. Before Breyer added a virtual aspect and let the whole world attend BreyerFest virtually, anyone from all over the world that could attend BreyerFest was able to enter the contests because you were coming to Kentucky and becoming a temporary citizen for the duration of your time here. Therefore, the laws applied to you and you were able to enter the contests. However, with the addition to make BreyerFest accessible to everyone, those contests are only available to those whose laws do not see it as gambling or other outlawed type of game. I hope that this makes sense, however it can be simplified down into one statement: The states and countries that are excluded have either vague laws against it or their laws are strict and prohibit it altogether. I wish that there could be a simple solution, however with Breyer having a virtual event, these are the exclusions and issues that arise.

Alright, that is out of the way and I am so very sorry that I even have to talk about it because I wish that I did not. Let’s get into the meat and potatoes of this post- the Best Customs Contests

What Is It?

The Best Customs Contest is a contest through Breyer that will showcase the best of the best when it comes to Custom model horses and tack.

Who Can Enter?

If you are a VIP or All Access Ticket Holder that lives in the US- excluding the states mentioned above- then you are able to enter. You must be attending in person. Please keep in mind that this Contest is for the absolute best of the best so there are no amateur or beginner divisions.

What Can I Enter?

There are certain categories that you are able to enter- Excellence in Finish Work, Fantasy, Most Extreme Custom, Performance Excellence (shown with Tack or Tack and Rider), and Theme Class. Each year, the Theme Class changes and this year it is: Dress To Impress- A Showcase of Tack Makers!

Explanation of the categories:

Excellence in Finish Work

Excellence in final paint decoration, including, without limitation, a high level of detail work, smoothness of paint, and a glowing, flawless finish. Judging is on paint work, detail work, and realism. Customizing enhancements or embellishments (e.g., halters, re-sculpting, etc.) are NOT permitted. Only standard prep work is permitted (e.g., cleaning, sanding of seams, etc.). Realistic equines only, no fantasy entries.

Fantasy

Use a Breyer model as your blank canvas, and let your imagination run wild! Judging is on creativity of concept and execution. A crowd favorite! Any scale Breyer model welcome. This is the only Division for non-realistic entries.

Most Extreme Custom

Extensive custom with little evidence of original model or models used underneath. Judging is on the quality of the extent of re-working of conformation, finish work, and realism. Realistic equines only, no fantasy entries.

Performance Excellence (shown with Tack or Tack and Rider)

For the Performance Excellence Division, tack and/or rider figure does not have to be created or customized by entrant. If you choose to use a rider figure, it must be a Breyer figure. Other non-Breyer props and accessories are acceptable as long as Breyer models (and Breyer figures, if applicable) are used in the Performance Excellence Division. Dioramas and accessories are welcome and encouraged, as they make an exciting display, however the judging will be on the model and tack, or model, tack and rider, only. This is a great opportunity for you to introduce kids and those new to model horse collecting to the artistry of Performance showing. You must include a brief description with your entry detailing the discipline and class being performed. Judging is on customization of the model and the tack, or tack and rider, presentation. Realistic equines only, no fantasy entries.

Dress To Impress

Show us your best custom tackon any Original Finish Breyer model of any scale. English, Western, Regalia, Harness – all types of realistic horse tack may enter. The only customizing allowed on the model horse would be sanding down the mane to allow bridle or saddle to fit more easily. Custom dolls, carts, or other props are accepted only if all work is done by the entrant. No dolls mounted on horses, as they may hide saddle details, but riders may also be presented as part of the entry on a separate mannequin horse (of the same mold) or on a doll stand next to the tack. No realistic "scene" bases; this is not a Performance class, it is the judging of miniature tack, as fine art. Mirrored bases, raised bases, or rotating displays are welcome as these may make it easier to view the entry from all angles, but emphasis should be entirely on tack, as the tack will be the sole component judged. Tack will be judged on detail, fit, accuracy, creativity and workmanship.

The Complete Rules and Regulations as well as how to enter: 

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0015/8898/5892/files/BF23_Best_Customs_Contest_Rules_FINAL.pdf?v=1670440452&fbclid=IwAR04ZHslXp8ZT4QsVCrfLAmUQScQQOCJLZaKP_E-v1uoyqxq5aHrFHd4edg  

Consider joining our FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtobreyerfes 

Let's Talk BreyerFest...In Depth Special Run Information, That Is!

 Let’s Talk BreyerFest...In Depth Special Run Edition, That Is!

Yesterday, Breyer released a post on the BreyerFest Blog that went over the ins and outs of the Special Runs. That is a great post, however there are some things in that post and some outside of that post that I want to go over here in this edition of Let’s Talk BreyerFest. Just adding to it, I guess that you could say.

What are Special Runs?

Special Runs are a series of eight horse models and one other animal model that are made especially for BreyerFest. These models are only available to certain ticket holders and are purchased a certain way before and during the event. You are still able to do pick ups, however as we saw last year, these can be quite difficult to do now, but that does not mean that it cannot be done! The Special Runs will have very little in common with the actual theme of the event, as seen with previous BreyerFest Special Runs, but their names will reflect the theme. This year, we might see more driving themed models, though, so I will not speculate on that yet. They are limited to a certain amount released, although this number has raised significantly in the last two years. They also have a set price range: $55 to $85 with taxes included in the cost for the in person ticket holders.

Who can buy Special Runs?

This year, there are three tickets that can purchase Special Runs. The VIP Ticket, the All Access Ticket, and the Online Traditional Access Ticket. Each one of these tickets has their own way of purchasing the Special Runs though, so please keep that in mind. Details on how to purchase will be a bit further down. The General Access and the Online Stablemate Ticket are not able to purchase Special Runs.

How many Special Runs can I buy?

Special Runs are limited on how many that you can purchase per ticket. The VIP Ticket Holders can only purchase two Special Runs. The All Access Ticket Holders are able to purchase two Special Runs per ticket that they have- so one ticket will let you buy two Special Runs, two tickets will let you buy four Special Runs, and so on. The Online Traditional Access Ticket will let you buy one Special Run per tickets purchased.

So the Visual Breakdown:

1 VIP Ticket- 2 Special Runs

1 All Access Ticket- 2 Special Runs per ticket purchased

1 Online Traditional Access Ticket- 1 Special Run per ticket purchased

Surprise Special Run?

Out of those nine Special Runs, there is one that is called the Surprise Special Run. That is included in the Special Runs, but you will not know the color or the mold of this run. It will have a colorway of at least four, but typically five, kinds and will all be on the same mold. It will not be revealed until the first one is opened up on the first day of BreyerFest. This is always a very tight lipped surprise, but everyone is always welcome to guess what it might be. This is the Special Run that typically costs $85.

Special Notes for the Special Runs!

This year, the Online Traditional Access Ticket will be using the Special Run Preference List to purchase their one Special Run. However, in the fine print on the latest BreyerFest Blog Post, please be aware that it says that you will only be able to select from the selection that is available to choose from.

How to select and buy Special Runs?

This year, the Special Run Preference List will be used again. This list is a lot more difficult to describe than it is to actually experience, so there will be a lot of posts covering it until the actual List is released. The All Access Ticket Holders and the Online Traditional Access Ticket Holders will be the ones using this list when it is released some time in the Spring. The list works by having you rank the Special Runs in the order that you like them best. Think of this as the order that you would buy them if you were going through the line at BreyerFest. You will have access to two different types of list and each one comes with its own set of pros and cons. The Master List will allow you to rank the Special Runs in the order that you like them for every ticket on your account on the same list. So if you have three tickets, this list will be used for all three tickets. It does lessen how many duplicates that you might receive, but it also does not give you complete control over the list. The Individual List will allow you to rank the Special Runs for each ticket on your account separately so you can pick a different order for each ticket, if you wish to do so. This might result in duplicates, but it does offer a bit more control. However, when using the Special Run Preference List, it is important to remember that this is just a ranking and Breyer will use this as a reference to draw the models for your tickets on your account. Their algorithm has never been released, please keep that in mind. If the models that you have selected are not available when your number comes up or you chose to not receive any other models than what you have selected, you could be getting a Wild Card ticket. Also, if you do not submit your Special Run Preference List or purchased your All Access Ticket after the cut off date, you will get a Wild Card Ticket. This Wild Card ticket will allow you to choose from the remaining Special Runs available at BreyerFest itself. Don’t worry, there will be many more posts all about the Special Run Preference List coming soon because it can be super confusing! No matter how which Special Runs that you get or how you are getting them, you will be buying them during BreyerFest.

When is my Time Slot?

There are no more Time Slots for the Special Runs at BreyerFest. You simply take the Reservation or Wild Card tickets that arrived in your Ticket Book to the Model Handout Tent and go through the line to pick up and pay for your models. A word of caution: There is no time slots so this line is LONG and it is hot. When this was introduced in 2022, the line reached over a half a mile or longer in order to pick up and pay for Special Runs. Breyer will tell you to come back when the line is not that long or to wait until later in the day. From my personal experience: I like to pick up all of my models on Friday so that the rest of the weekend can be spent buying models, watching shows, and talking with friends. I went to the Breyer Store first thing because I am crazy and like to punish myself and then went to the Model Handout Tent. The line was back to nearly the Rolex Arena and stayed that way until they had to shut it down one hour before the park closed due to a malfunction with the credit card machines. I went to the park early on Saturday, got in line for the General Admission, and made my way to the Model Handout Tent so that I could guarantee that I would get them early enough to avoid a line. The line did not slow down until almost closing on Sunday. Things could definitely be different in 2023, so I will always turn my eye towards making things better, however, I did feel the need to warn that this line is LONG and can last for hours.

Buying the Special Run Model Online

For those that have the Online Traditional Access Tickets, this should be a very simple procedure. It should be just clicking add to cart on the model that was chosen for your account and then paying for it in the cart. I did not experience this last year, so if you did, I would be honored if you would tell us your experience in the comments below. Shipping has not been addressed yet this year on the Breyer website for BreyerFest, however as soon as it is, the information will be posted in the group.

A few last things…

If you are attending the in person event, you are welcome to trade tickets and trade models once you have paid for them and picked them up, however you cannot trade them with Breyer. If you received a reservation ticket for a model that you did not want or a wild card ticket, you can trade them with someone else, but you cannot go to Breyer and say that you want something else. Unless you have a VIP Ticket, you do not have to purchase any Special Runs. If you do not like the ones selected for your account and do not feel that you could easily trade or sell them, you are not forced to purchase them. That goes for both the All Access and the Online Traditional Access Tickets. BreyerFest models are non refundable. Breyer does not accept returns or exchanges unless the Special Run is considered fatally flawed by Breyer employees.

I think that is everything for Special Runs before the Special Runs are released! We should be seeing them start being revealed soon since tickets go on sale in February.

I hope that this helps! 

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Let's Talk BreyerFest...Which Ticket Is Right For Me, That Is!

 Let’s Talk BreyerFest...Which Ticket Is Right For Me, That Is!

Many people that are interested in attending BreyerFest always ask which ticket is best for them. While I cannot answer that question directly because I do not know what you want to experience during your time at BreyerFest, I can go over what each ticket offers, the costs associated with them, and things like that.

If you are planning to attend the in person event, there are three different tickets that you will need to think about. Those are the VIP, the All Access, and the General Access Tickets. Each one of those tickets offer you entry into the Kentucky Horse Park for all three days and each one of those tickets allow you to purchase Limited Edition models at BreyerFest. But there are so many differences between them.

The VIP Ticket- This ticket is for either the die hard BreyerFest fan or the one that wants to experience everything. This is the cream of the crop when it comes to BreyerFest tickets and it also has the highest costs associated with it. This ticket allows you to do things that you cannot do with the other two tickets and those things are being able to select and buy two Special Runs at the time of ticket purchase and select and buy two Limited Editions at the time of ticket purchase. The base price for this ticket is $240 and the Special Runs cost anywhere from $60 to $85 and the Limited Editions cost anywhere from $15 to $75. That base price will jump to around $450 or higher at the time of ticket purchase.

This ticket is limited to two per transaction, but there is not limit per household/account. This ticket will be sold first come, first served.

During BreyerFest, the VIP Ticket gives you access to a lot of more things than the General Access does, however it does give you almost the same things as the All Access Ticket. There are only two things during BreyerFest that are offered through the VIP Ticket that are not offered through the All Access Ticket and those are the complimentary parking pass and the VIP Exclusive Swag box. The VIP Ticket allows you to participate in the free seminars, register for the workshops for an additional fee, register for the Live Shows for an additional fee, view the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance, purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest, participate in the Contests (terms and conditions do apply), and more.

Visual Breakdown Of What Comes With The VIP Ticket:

*One Celebration Horse Model

*One FULL Set of Event Stablemates

*Two Special Runs prepaid

*Two Limited Editions prepaid

*Three Days of Entry into the Kentucky Horse Park

*Ability to register for Workshops

*Ability to register for the Live Shows

*Ability to enter the Contests

*Access to the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance

*Complimentary Parking Pass

*Exclusive Swag Box

*Access to Free Seminars and other free activities

*Access to shopping at the BreyerFest Store and the Vendor Marketplace

*Access to purchase BreyerFest Merchandise/Swag

*Access to virtual BreyerFest content

*And who knows what else!

If that sounds great to you, then this is the ticket for you!

The All Access Ticket- One step below the VIP Ticket is the All Access Ticket. Back in the day, this was the cream of the crop ticket and it still is actually! This ticket offers you almost everything that the VIP Ticket offers you, minus a few things, for $90. The All Access Ticket will offer you entry to all three days of BreyerFest at the Kentucky Horse Park, access to purchase up to two Special Runs per ticket purchased, access to purchase Limited Editions at the event, access to register for the Workshops, access to register for the Live Shows, access to the free seminars, access to the Contests (terms and conditions apply), access to purchase a parking pass, access to the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance, and more. With this ticket, you will be able to buy two Special Runs per ticket at BreyerFest, using the Special Run Preference List. More information on the Special Run Preference List will be available in the Let’s Talk BreyerFest Guide.

Visual Breakdown Of The All Access Ticket:

*One Celebration Horse Model

*Two Special Runs purchased at the event

*Limited Editions purchased at the event

*Access to register for the Workshops

*Access to register for the Live Shows

*Access to purchase a Parking Pass

*Access to enter the Contests (terms and conditions apply)

*Access to the Celebration of Horses Evening Show

*Three days of BreyerFest at the Kentucky Horse Park

*Access to free seminars and other free activities

*Access to shopping the BreyerFest Store and the Vendor Marketplace

*Access to purchase BreyerFest Merchandise/Event Swag

*Access to the virtual BreyerFest content

If that sounds great to you, then this is the ticket for you!

The General Access Ticket- This $30 ticket to BreyerFest used to be considered the Single Day Ticket. However, all of the BreyerFest tickets now allow you to get into BreyerFest for all three days so it is no longer called the Single Day Ticket. This ticket does not come with a Celebration Horse Model, however it does come with one randomly selected Event Stablemate. This ticket does not come with the ability to purchase Special Runs, but it does allow you to purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest from the BreyerFest Store. You will be able to participate in all of the free activities with this ticket and you will be able to watch the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance.

Visual Breakdown of the General Access Ticket:

*One randomly selected Event Stablemate

*Access to purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest

*Access to the free activities/events during BreyerFest

*Access to the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance

*Access to purchase a parking pass

*Access to the virtual BreyerFest content (additional fees apply)

*Access to shopping the BreyerFest Store and the Vendor Marketplace

*Access to purchase BreyerFest Merchandise/Event Swag

*Access to all three days of BreyerFest at the Kentucky Horse Park.

*This is a great ticket for those that you bring along with you that might not be as interested in the models or the children with you.

If that sounds great to you, then this is the ticket for you!

Now we move onto the virtual content and the virtual tickets that are offered for BreyerFest.

Online Traditional Access Ticket- This $65 ticket offers you a toned down version of the All Access ticket, with it being strictly virtual. No virtual ticket will be honored at the in person event. With this ticket, you receive one Celebration Horse model, access to purchase one Special Run using the Special Run Preference List, access to purchase the Limited Editions during BreyerFest, access to the virtual content, access to virtual contests (terms and conditions apply), access to virtual workshops, and more. If you are unable to travel to Kentucky, then this is a great ticket to give you a lot of options.

Visual Breakdown Of The Online Traditional Access Ticket:

*One Celebration Horse Model- sent to your address on file

*Access to purchase one Special Run model

*Access to purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest

*Access to view the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance

*Access to virtual contests (terms and conditions apply)

*Access to virtual workshops

*Access to virtual content

*Access to virtual shopping and the BreyerFest online store

*Access to purchase BreyerFest Merchandise/Event Swag

If that sounds great to you, then this is the ticket for you!

Online Stablemate Access Ticket- This $25 ticket is the lowest tier of ticket offered for BreyerFest. This ticket allows you to get one randomly selected Event Stablemate, access to purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest, access to the virtual content, access to virtual workshops, and access to virtual shopping at the BreyerFest Store.

Visual Breakdown Of The Online Stablemate Access Ticket:

*One randomly selected Event Stablemate sent to the address on file

*Access to purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest

*Access to view the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance

*Access to virtual workshops

*Access to virtual content

*Access to virtual shopping and the BreyerFest online store

*Access to purchase BreyerFest Merchandise/Event Swag

If that sounds great to you, then this is the ticket for you!

Once you have read over all of the ticket types, now is the time to decide what type of ticket that you are going to purchase in February when tickets go on sale. Last year, the In Person tickets were on sale first and then the virtual tickets went on sale later on. As of right now, we are not entirely positive if there will be any restrictions on how many tickets that you are able to purchase, but I have a feeling that the VIP Ticket will be limited this year.

I hope that this has helped you! 

Consider joining our FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtobreyerfes 

Let's Talk BreyerFest...The Celebration Of Horses Evening Performance, That Is!

 Let’s Talk BreyerFest...The Celebration Of Horses Evening Performance, That Is!

What is the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance and why do you want to attend? The Celebration of Horses Evening Performance is a lovely show that showcases the beauty, grace, and power of the horse. In the past, it has been produced and choreographed by Silvia Zerbini and has included some top talent in their respected fields. From liberty to dressage to daring trick riders, this performance typically has it all. You never know exactly what you will see when you attend. Each BreyerFest ticket comes with admission to this show, including the virtual tickets as it will be streamed to the BreyerFest portion of the Breyer website.

When purchasing your BreyerFest Tickets (in person only), you will need to choose which evening that you want to attend the Performance, Friday or Saturday. The corresponding ticket will arrive in your Ticket Book and you will need that ticket in order to get inside the Altech Arena. The Celebration of Horses Evening Performance takes place at the Altech Arena, which is climate controlled and is inside. There are snack bars, restrooms, and more located inside. The virtual attendees do not need to select a day, I do not believe, as the content will be streamed to the Breyer website and last year, you were able to watch it whenever you wanted after it streamed for the first time.

The Friday and Saturday shows are typically the same Performance, with the only exception being that the stars are horses and sometimes horses do not always do what they are supposed to be doing. The Performance runs from 6 PM EDT to 8 PM EDT and does overlap with the Swap Meet on Friday and the Artisan's Gallery on Saturday. I do believe that it also overlaps with the Live Auction on Saturday as well.

Whether you attend this Performance or not is totally up to you as it comes with your ticket, however I highly recommend it.

I hope that this helps! 

Consider joining our FB Group for more up to the minute BreyerFest Information and a positive model horse community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtobreyerfes 

Let's Talk BreyerFest...What Exactly Comes With Each Ticket, That Is!

 Let’s Talk BreyerFest...What Exactly Comes With Each Ticket, That Is!

BreyerFest is a time of excitement and fun, but it can also seem so very overwhelming as you start the planning. There is so much to plan out from travel routes to hotel stays to just what you want to experience. As you start this planning, you might be wondering just what exactly comes with each Ticket and what all that you can do with them. Let’s get into it!

In Person Tickets

If you are attending the in person event at the Kentucky Horse Park, you will need to have an In Person ticket type. No virtual event tickets will be honored at the park. All BreyerFest Tickets come with the ability to purchase Limited Edition models during BreyerFest. However, keep in mind that technically the only model that you are absolutely guaranteed to receive (unless you purchase a VIP Ticket) are the models that come with your tickets. Models can and do sell out, however with the raised edition numbers, it is unlikely that they will sell out too quickly anymore. You do not need to purchase your Event Models (Celebration Horse Models and/or the Event Stablemates) as they come automatically with your ticket.

VIP Ticket- $240 plus the cost of two Special Runs and two Limited Editions

With the VIP Ticket, you get one Celebration Horse Model, one full set of Event Stablemates, two Special Runs that you have selected and paid for when you purchased your ticket, two Limited Editions that you have selected and paid for when you purchased your ticket, the ability to purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest, access to the free Seminars, access to the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance, access to all of the free activities in and around the Covered Arena, access to participate in the Model Horse Shows (for an added fee), access to register for Workshops (for an added fee), access to the BreyerFest virtual content, a complimentary parking pass, an exclusive Swag Box, the ability to enter contests (depending on rules and regulations when they are released), and more!

All Access Ticket- $90- models cost extra and will be purchased at BreyerFest

With the All Access Ticket, you get one Celebration Horse Model, two Special Runs (per ticket purchased- so if you buy one ticket, you get two Special Runs) using the Special Run Preference List, the ability to purchase Limited Editions during BreyerFest, access to the free Seminars, access to the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance, access to all of the free activities in and around the Covered Arena, access to participate in the Model Horse Shows (for an added fee), access to register for Workshops (for an added fee), access to the BreyerFest virtual content, access to purchase a parking pass, the ability to enter contests (depending on rules and regulations when they are released), and more!

General Access Ticket- $30- models cost extra and will be purchased at BreyerFest

With the General Access Ticket, you get one randomly selected Event Stablemate, access to purchase the Limited Editions at BreyerFest, access to the free Seminars, access to the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance, access to all of the free activities in and around the Covered Arena, access to the BreyerFest virtual content (additional fees apply), access to purchase a parking pass, and more.

Virtual Event Tickets

Online Traditional Access Tickets- $65- models cost extra and will be purchased during BreyerFest

With the Online Traditional Access Ticket, you get one Celebration horse, the ability to purchase one Special Run using the Special Run Preference List from a selection of models offered to online attendees, access to BreyerFest virtual content, access to a Live Stream coming from the Kentucky Horse Park that will include interviews with guest horse owners, hobbyists, fans, and more, access to Seminar streams, access to the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance, access to online shopping at the BreyerFest Store, access to virtual contests (terms and conditions may apply), and more

Online Stablemate Access Tickets- $25- models cost extra and will be purchased during BreyerFest

With the Online Stablemate Access Ticket, you get one randomly selected Event Stablemate, access to BreyerFest virtual content, access to a Live Stream coming from the Kentucky Horse Park that will include interviews with guest horse owners, hobbyists, fans, and more, access to Seminar streams, access to the Celebration of Horses Evening Performance, access to online shopping at the BreyerFest Store, and more.

I hope that this has helped you! There will be so much more information coming soon about BreyerFest! Consider joining our FB Group for up to the minute information and a positive community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtobreyerfes 

Let's Talk BreyerFest...Special Run Preference List Basics, That Is!

 Let’s Talk BreyerFest… Special Run Preference List Basics, That Is!

First, let me preface this by saying that we do not yet know all of the exact details of how it will all work for 2023. However, this post is to help get the basics of the Special Run Preference List down so that when the exact information comes out and then you go on to fill out the Special Run Preference List, you will hopefully not feel so overwhelmed by all of the information. BreyerFest is crazy overwhelming and while Breyer does answer questions, I am here to help explain the information and the Veteran Roadies are here to offer tons of support and explain what I might miss. Just know that you totally got this and it really is a lot easier to actually do it than it is to explain it. The Special Run Preference List will be for All Access and Online Traditional Access Ticket Holders only.

The Special Run Preference List is just a way to let Breyer know how you like the Special Runs that are offered for this year’s event. Think of it more like a ranking list rather than a preference list. You do not need to purchase the models that end up being selected for you, however they make amazing sale or trade fodder for something that you want instead. This list is not a list for their inventory and this list does not guarantee that you will be getting those models in that order. It is just a ranking list. When the Special Run Preference Run is released, the link will be posted here. There will also be an email that goes out from Breyer and several notifications from all of the Breyer community on FB.

Ok, let’s get into the details of that list! In 2022, they offered the list to be ran two different ways: The Master List and the Individual List. With the Master List, you have more control over not receiving duplicates although the possibility is still there. With the Individual List, you have more control over your selections for each ticket, but could get many duplicates. No matter which one that you chose, you can always trade with other BreyerFest attendees during the event. You cannot trade for another model with Breyer though.

First, know that if you do not fill out the list, you will be given Wild Card tickets.  These are redemption tickets for whatever is leftover during BreyerFest. You do not need to purchase these models. You will be paying for your Special Runs during BreyerFest. You should have around two weeks to fill out this List and I will post daily reminders. Yes, you can have pick ups with this BreyerFest. Your pick up person will need your order number in order to pick up your Ticket Book from Will Call. Your Special Runs will not be sent to you, someone needs to pick them up in person, either you or your pick up person. Ok, onto the specifics.

The Master List

The first type of Special Run Preference List that you can use is the Master List. If you have more than one ticket and you want to limit how many duplicates that you might receive, this is the list for you. You will be filling out one list for all of the tickets that you have listed on your account. The best way to fill out this list is to put the Special Run that you want the most at the top and rank them down to the one that you like least. No one can tell you how to fill out this list, there is no way to make it better, this is all up to you! You got this! The Master List is a way to manage all of your All Access Tickets with one list and is the way to get the least amount of duplicates. There will be multiple number ones (as many as tickets on your account) and so on. Just rank the models how you like them the best. That is all there is to it! You have until the day that it is due to edit it and Breyer will normally take the last one submitted.

The Individual List

The second type of Special Run Preference List is the one that I have used both times that it was offered. It is the Individual List. While this list does have a high rate of duplicates, it allows you to customize your rankings per ticket on your account. So with each ticket, you will be making a new list. If you have just one ticket on your account, this will be the best option for you to use. If you do not mind duplicates or you want to attempt to control Lady Fate, then this list is best for you. Again, no one call tell you how to rank the Special Runs other than yourself. There is no secret to getting what you want as Breyer has never revealed their algorithm of how the Special Runs are selected for your account. With this option, if you have more than one ticket, you will be filling out more than one list. You can set different Special Runs as number one and so on, but just know that you might get duplicates.

Online Traditional Access Tickets

This is where we do not have information just yet. However, we do know that you will be getting one with your ticket so you will be ranking the Special Runs in the order that you like them

So that is all that there is to the Special Run Preference List! Once you submit your list to Breyer, you then just need to wait. And wait. And wait. Breyer will then notify you that your selections are reserved and you will receive Reservation Tickets in your Ticket Book. You will be actually paying for the Special Runs at the event, as far as we know. If any or all of this information changes, it will definitely be updated immediately. When we learn more about all of the processes, I will be posting about how Pick Ups will work for BreyerFest.

I hope that this helps a bit! 

Let's Talk BreyerFest... Event Models, That Is!

 Let’s Talk BreyerFest… What Are The Models Called Again, That Is?!

There are several different types of models for sale during BreyerFest, but there are so many terms that get thrown around during the planning that no one can seem to keep them all straight. However, I am here to help you with that!

So, let’s get into it!

Ticket Models: Ticket Models are also known as Event Models when Breyer talks about them. These are the models that come with the certain tickets that you can purchase for the event. These include the Celebration Horse and the Event Stablemates. At the in person event, the Celebration Model comes with the VIP and the All Access Ticket and the Event Stablemates come with the General Access Ticket. At a virtual event, the Online Traditional Tickets come with the Celebration Model and the Online Stablemate Access Tickets come with one randomly selected Event Stablemate.

VIP- One Celebration Horse Model and One Full Set of Event Stablemates

All Access Ticket- One Celebration Horse Model

General Access Ticket- One randomly selected Event Stablemate (if they are not busy, you are typically allowed to choose yours.)

Online Traditional Access- One Celebration Horse Model

Online Stablemate Access- One randomly selected Event Stablemate

Special Runs: These models do not change with the different type of events. They always stay the same in name. These models are available to the VIP, All Access, and Online Traditional Ticket Holders. There are typically nine of these models and one is normally an animal. The names are the only thing that traces back to the theme of the event as the molds and the colors are normally just a pick of the Breyer artists. The Special Runs also include one Surprise Special Run that remains hidden until the first day of BreyerFest.

VIP-two Special Runs that you select and pay for at the time that you purchase your ticket

All Access- two Special Runs per ticket purchased. You will use the Special Run Preference List to order the Special Runs in the order that you like them and Breyer will select the two for your ticket based on that information.

Online Traditional Access- One Special Run. You will use the Special Run Preference List to order the Special Runs in the order that you like them and Breyer will select the one for your ticket based on that information.

*Please Note: The Surprise Special Run is still a Special Run. It is not a separate thing outside of the rest of the Special Runs. If this is what you want to select at the top of your list, then you will need to put this. Just keep in mind that you will not know exactly what the mold and colors will be until the first one is opened after purchase during BreyerFest.

Limited Editions: These are the models that cause the absolute most confusion because they have underwent a name change so fast that your head is likely still spinning, I know that mine is! The Limited Edition Models consist of up to three Traditional Sized models, one Classic (Freedom) sized model, one single Stablemate model, one set of Stablemate models, one plushie, and one Crystal (which is made of crystal and is about Curio scale). At an in person event, these models are not all located in the same place. The three Traditional sized models are located in the Breyer Store on the Concourse of the Covered Arena and the other models are located at the Pop up Stores around the park. So at the in person event, the three Traditional Models are typically called the Store models and the others are called the Pop Up Tent Models. However, since at a virtual event, the models are all in one store, it was confusing to call them by two different names so they were combined and called Limited Edition Models. All Ticket Holders are able to purchase these models during the event. You are limited to purchasing them one at a time, but you can purchase as many as you want before they sell out.

VIP: select and pay for two Limited Editions at time of ticket purchase and the ability to buy as many as you want during the event.

All Access Ticket: The ability to purchase Limited Editions during the event.

General Access Ticket: The ability to purchase Limited Editions during the event

Online Traditional Access Ticket: The ability to purchase Limited Editions during the event

Online Stablemate Access Ticket: The ability to purchase Limited Editions during the event.

Raffle Models: There are two Raffle models that are offered at the in person BreyerFest- one for Saturday and one for Sunday typically. These are typically on a Premiere Club model that has not been released to the public yet with an in depth colorway. There are 26 of each model made- 25 for the Raffle and one for the Live Auction. The exact details of the Raffle will be released in time. Tickets are cash only in person. The exact prices will be announced later on as they could change. All In Person Ticket Holders can enter the Raffles. Last year, there was a Raffle for the virtual Ticket Holders as well.

Live Auction Models: These models are truly one of a kind pieces that are from the Breyer Archive Room. Each year, a selection of around 18 lots is selected to be auctioned off to benefit charities that Breyer chooses. These models go for high prices, so keep that in mind if you wish to participate.

Prize Models: These models are prizes for the various contests that Breyer has during BreyerFest. No matter what form the event takes place as, there are still contests and there will be prize models. These Prize Models are for the Best Customs Contest, the Diorama Contest, and the Costume Contest. Breyer will post the rules for each contest after the first of the year as they are releasing information about BreyerFest so please hold off on commenting about the contests before then. The Prize models are extremely limited and are not easy to win, but you never know what might win!

Open Show Prizes: The BreyerFest Live Open Show has a Overall Champion and Overall Reserve Champion models. These are extremely limited models and can only be won by winning the show. The online shows do not have those prize models, however they do have models that are awarded to winners and they can be, but are not limited to Special Runs, Limited Editions, and more.

I hope that this has helped you understand the crazy model terminology that is used during BreyerFest!