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Our News Archives

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Betty Sain Day in Shelbyville

SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. –Tonight was the first full night of world grand championship classes. It was also dubbed Throwback Thursday, where spectators and exhibitors alike celebrated the rich history of this great breed. They especially commemorated Betty Sain, the first female trainer to win a World Grand Championship exactly 60 years ago. 
9/4/2026

Latest Issue 9/3/26

9/3/2026

Seasoned Winners and Young Talent Showcase Across Divisions

SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – Tuesday evening’s performance in the Celebration Arena continued the long-standing tradition of Fan Appreciation Dollar Night. Fifteen classes were on the program as everyone settled in for another balmy night of festivities.
9/2/2026

Latest Issue 9/2/26

9/2/2026

Important Schedule Clarification – Classes 113 and 190

When we announced the new class schedule earlier this year, we were excited to add Class 174 – Walking Mares or Geldings Specialty, World Grand Championship to the Celebration program.
9/2/2026

Successful Spotlight Rides on Pink Night

SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – It was Wednesday night at The Celebration. A week of showing had already transpired as workers and attendees alike prepared for the last three monumental nights. For now, Wednesday would see some of the first world grand champions crowned. Furthermore, it was Pink Night in the Big Oval, wherein everyone wore pink to support the Bedford Cancer Foundation.
9/2/2026

Fan Appreciation Night Boasts 44 Two-Year-Old Stallions

SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – Monday and Tuesday night have long been Fan Appreciation Dollar Night at The Celebration, where general admission tickets and select concessions are only a dollar. This Monday night before Labor day marked the halfway point of Celebration festivities, but it would only get better from here. 
9/1/2026

Latest Issue 9/1/26

9/1/2026

Schedule change for Wednesday night at the Celebration

The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has announced a schedule change for Wednesday night, September 2, to help improve the flow of the evening and reduce congestion in the warm-up arena.Class 159 – Owner-Amateur Drivers Fine Harness, World Grand Championship will now be the first class of the night on Wednesday, September 2.
9/1/2026

Blessing Shower Down on The Big Oval For Faith and Family Night

SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – Sunday evening has always been an exciting session at The Celebration grounds. After the traditional Sunday morning service in the Big Oval, Lunch with the Legends had been an afternoon highlight for young attendees of The Celebration, as well as the traditional Celebration Sunday Golf Game for the older participants. Everyone gathered back for Church Night, celebrating faith and family.
8/31/2026

Latest Issue 8/31/26

8/31/2026

Championship Entry and Vet Slip Deadlines Begin Tuesday

Exhibitors and trainers are reminded that the deadline to enter all championship classes is noon the day before the class is scheduled to be held. Vet slips for each championship class are also due by the same deadline.
8/31/2026

Novice and Equitation Highlight Final Morning Session

SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – The Monday before Labor Day has always been the last morning session of The Celebration in Cooper Steel Arena. A total of 15 classes, beginning and ending with Equitation championships, were on the program. Travis Olinger announced the judging panel and Brian Peery struck up the organ at precisely 9 o’clock. 
8/31/2026

The Team Behind the Tradition: Meet the Center Ring Staff

Every August, thousands of people make their way to The Celebration to watch champions crowned, hear the organ echo through the arenas and experience traditions that have been passed down for generations. Fans see the trophies presented, the spotlight rides celebrated and the victory passes that become lasting memories. What they don't see is the team working quietly behind the scenes to make every one of those moments possible.
8/31/2026

Faith, family and a horse farm

The Bible teaches that faith in God, and the stewardship of one's family come long before worldly wealth or work. Many entrepreneurs credit keeping faith and family before business leads to success. Herbert and Jill Derickson would agree. Their training and breeding facility, 4 The Glory Farms, has produced champion Tennessee Walking Horses by following that Golden Rule. It comes naturally to both of them and their family.
8/30/2026