General Knowledge

National Horse Day 2023: Date, History and 5 Facts About Wild Horses

he history of America is deeply linked to horses, from cowboys to the Kentucky Derby.

National Horse Day 2023: Every year on December 13, we celebrate National Horse Day. It’s a day to honor the cultural, historical, and economic contributions made by horses. On December 13, equestrian enthusiasts nationwide will come together to honor these magnificent animals. See how you can recognize the day whether you’re an experienced rider or have never been on a horse before!

The background to National Horse Day

Congress declared December 13, 2004, to be National Horse Day. Ever since, people in the United States have used this day to honor and celebrate the horse’s contribution to the development of our nation and its contemporary significance.

The US economy benefits from horses to the tune of about $9.2 billion overall. Horses have become a part of American life in many ways, from helping to plow fields to transporting food and supplies into rural areas, moving livestock on ranches, or simply providing kind, considerate equine therapy.

Following the extinction of the ancient Native American horses some 13,000–11,000 years ago, European colonists brought the modern wild horse species back to America in the late 1400s. Since then, they have flourished in the mountainous west and the great plains, where the thunderous hooves of wild herds are still audible today. Horses are still required for work in many untamed and rural areas, and rodeos remain an essential and vibrant aspect of western American culture.

Even though the history of Horse Day may be relatively recent, horses have long played a significant role in the lives of many Americans.

Things to do For National Horses Day

Take an equestrian ride

Take a ride to commemorate National Horse Day, regardless of your level of experience with horses.

See a film about horses.

“Seabiscuit,” “Black Beauty,” “National Velvet.” And that’s only the start.

Give to a horse charity

Numerous groups exist that are committed to supporting horses. Look into your options and see how you can contribute.

Green Monday 2023: Date, History and Events

5 Facts About Wild Horses

A Mustang is a car, right?

The majority of the wild horses in the United States are called mustangs.

We can give Spanish explorers credit.

The ancestors of mustangs are Iberian horses, which Spanish explorers introduced to the Americas.

Large horses, few in number

Less than 25,000 wild horses exist in the United States, even though they are not considered an endangered species.

They are designed to survive.

There are no innate predators for Mustangs.

It’s only a number, age

In the wild, certain horses can live up to 40 years.

Why National Horse Day Is So Great

We have spent thousands of years with horses as companions.

Given the long-standing human-equine bond, it seems fitting that a whole day would be devoted to honoring horses!

America’s culture is heavily reliant on horses.

The history of America is deeply linked to horses, from cowboys to the Kentucky Derby. Whether you love horses or not, you have undoubtedly at some point observed America’s passion for them.

Horses improve our lives.

Riding in horse shows brings with it a competitive spirit that equestrians adore. Horses are necessary for farmers to perform daily tasks. And there are many others in between, like taking the occasional ride on a horse. People all around the world experience joy and companionship in their lives because of horses.

NATIONAL HORSE DAY DATES

Year Date Day
2023 December 13 Wednesday
2024 December 13 Friday
2025 December 13 Saturday
2026 December 13 Sunday
2027 December 13 Monday
Farheen Ashraf

Farheen Ashraf is a History graduate. She writes on a variety of topics, including business, entertainment, laws, poetry, stories, travel, and more. Her passion for writing has led her to explore a variety of genres.

Recent Posts

VA COLA 2026 Increase: Eligibility, New Rates and Who Gets the Pay Raise

The good news is: if you already receive VA benefits tied to COLA, you don’t…

3 hours ago

2026 Social Security COLA: Estimated Benefit Increase for Retirees Aged 62 to 80

The 2026 Social Security COLA could raise monthly benefits by about 2.7%, giving retirees extra…

3 hours ago

VA Automobile Allowance 2025: Maximum Payment Disabled Veterans Can Receive for Adapted Vehicles

The VA Automobile Allowance helps disabled veterans buy or adapt vehicles for their needs, offering…

4 hours ago

Federal Workers to Get 1% Pay Hike in 2026: Special Rates for Law Enforcement Jobs

Federal employees will get a 1% pay increase in 2026 to help offset inflation with…

4 hours ago

$1,702 Stimulus Check in October 2025: Who Qualifies and When Payments Are Coming

In 2024, the PFD amount was $1,702 (dividend + bonus) for eligible Alaskans.

7 hours ago

Pennsylvania Property Tax Rebate 2025: Who Can Claim Up to $1,000?

Pennsylvania is offering up to $1,000 through its Property Tax and Rent Rebate program, helping…

7 hours ago