CLARK FREEPORT ZONE – In the heart of Pampanga, where the spirit of family and the love for horses intertwine, El Kabayo takes the reins to organize a festive celebration like no other.
This November 18 to 19, 2023, families from far and wide have converged upon El Kabayo’s grounds to revel in the joy of togetherness during the annual horse festival that drives tourism in the area, located near the former horse stable and ammo dam of the US-run Clark Air Base.
What began as a simple gathering of horse aficionados has blossomed into a yearly tradition that extends its warm welcome not only to equestrian enthusiasts but to families seeking a unique and memorable experience. El Kabayo’s Family Day is not just about horses; it’s a grand spectacle where the spirit of family and community takes center stage.
Clark Development Corporation Board Director Helen Nicolette Henson-Hizon, who keynoted the El Kabayo Horse Fest, reminisced about the unique place that Clark holds in her heart. For her, it’s not just a location; it’s a cherished family favorite that has been a place for countless beautiful memories.
Today, Clark has evolved into a thriving hub for events such as the El Kabay
Horse Fest that isn’t merely a tourist attraction but a place for families to create core memories.
El Kabayo’s festival is not just a showcase of horse competitions; it’s a celebration where local businesses from Pampanga unite to share their products on the food bazaar, offering the iconic Kapampangan “Sisig” to delectable Kebab delights for families, some traveling from as far as Baguio and Pasig City.
For those who aren’t avid horse riders but still want to partake in the festivities, El Kabayo ensures there’s something for everyone. Visitors can engage in leisure riding, explore the bazaar, or capture the excitement through photo ops. The event caters to both the seasoned horse aficionado and those seeking a leisurely weekend escape.
Beyond the thrill of competitions and the allure of the marketplace, El Kabayo extends its warmth to those who need it most. Around 11 children with disabilities from Munting Tahanan ng Nazareth, beneficiaries of El Kabayo’s Hippotherapy program, attended the festival for the second time.
Hippotherapy, a unique blend of physical, occupational, and speech therapy, utilizes the natural gait and movement of horses to provide therapeutic benefits. The smiles on the faces of these children, surrounded by their parents and guardians, speak volumes about the inclusivity and heartwarming spirit of El Kabayo’s Family Day.
Families who came to support competitors and those who merely stumbled upon the event find themselves immersed in a celebration that goes beyond the boundaries of horse riding. El Kabayo’s Family Day is a testament to the power of community, the thrill of competition, and the joy of connecting with loved ones.
El Kabayo’s Family Day stands as more than an equestrian event; it symbolizes unity, celebration, and the enduring spirit of family. | Julianna Egenias and Ryan Ishi Cuevas | Photos by Nelson Gonzales • CLMA Pampanga