Finnish Field Day at Vasa National Archive

Children and adults have been riding hobby horses, or stick horses, for centuries for play, to mock elites, and re-enactments. In recent years, this childhood pastime has grown into an athletic competition with regional, national and international events and competitions. Horses can be simple homemade horses or professional custom made horses. Participants mimic horse competitions while riding their stick horses. Jumping and Dressage are the most popular, but any equine sport can become a hobby horse competition.

The international hobby horse competition takes place in Seinäjoki, Finland and has been running for over 11 years. In 2017, Selma Vilhunen's 2017 film Keppihevosten vallankumous (Hobby Horse Revolution) introduced hobby horse competitions to the world. Most find fellow enthusiast via social media and websites.

The Vasa National Archive will host a fun, non-competitive hobby horse event on May 25 from 1-4 pm. Participants can try out jumps, barrel racing, joust targets, and races. Drinks will be provided for participants.

This is free and open to the public of all ages. Participants can bring their own hobby horse or make one the day of for $10 each. Supplies are limited and reservations are suggested. Call 309-927-3898 or email VasaArchivist@gmail.com for more information.