ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore has officially proclaimed October 2025 as ‘Maryland Horse Month,’ celebrating the notable economic and cultural contributions of the state’s equine industry. the announcement, made in collaboration with the Maryland Horse Industry Board (MHIB) and the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism, aims to highlight Maryland’s diverse equestrian landscape and attract visitors to experience it’s unique offerings.
Maryland’s horse country spans from the Assateague Ponies on the Eastern Shore to trail riding opportunities in Garrett County, encompassing destinations like Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, Prince George’s Equestrian Center, the Maryland Horse Library & education Center, and the soon-to-be-renovated Pimlico Race Course.
“Marylanders have always loved horses, and October is the perfect month to celebrate that connection,” saeid Anne Litz, Executive Director of the Maryland Horse Industry Board. “Whether it’s watching world-class competitions, exploring our scenic trails, or visiting a local farm, there are countless opportunities for everyone to spend time with horses and experience the joy they bring to our state and souls.”
The initiative will promote equestrian tourism through trail guides, farm tours, event calendars, and educational resources available at MarylandHorsePark.org and VisitMaryland.org. Visitors are encouraged to share their experiences using hashtags #MDHorse, #MDHorseMonth, #VisitMaryland, and #MDinFocus, alongside event-specific tags like #Maryland5Star, #capitalchallenge, #MDMillion, #WIHS2025, and #FEIWorldCup.
Established in 1998, the MHIB operates within the Maryland Department of Agriculture, focusing on the development and promotion of the state’s horse industry, licensing stables and horse facilities.Maryland’s tourism industry generated $11.6 billion in travel-related expenses in 2020, contributing $1.7 billion in state and local taxes and supporting over 104,000 jobs.