Where excellence meets intention: Why MHF chooses Traverse City Horse Shows

Traverse City, MI 7/4/2025 — Traverse City Horse Shows has quickly become one of North America’s premier show jumping destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Owned and operated by a family with deep generational roots in the equestrian world, the facility reflects a rare level of thoughtfulness and detail that only true horsemen can deliver. For barns like Messenger Hill Farm, that makes all the difference.

Every detail at TCHS has been considered from the perspective of a working show barn, because the people running the show are real horsemen! From safety and comfort to aesthetics and functionality, the facility has been designed not just to impress, but to truly support the horses and riders who call it home for the season.

The VIP Experience

Messenger Hill Farm prides itself on providing a boutique, world-class, concierge experience. TCHS only adds to this with comfortable lounging areas around every ring, thoughtfully placed seating areas throughout the showgrounds, and new jumps in all the arenas year after year, contributing to a beautiful aesthetic and vibe.

The arenas and jumps are gorgeous! - PC: Meg Gehron

Paddock Rentals That Prioritize Horse Welfare

In a show environment where turnout can be hard to find, TCHS makes it possible to maintain a horse’s routine with spacious paddock rentals. It’s a choice that supports both mental and physical wellness. Messenger Hill’s Jodi Vazquez gives us some insight: “Horses are happiest and feel their best when they can depend on their schedule and routines to stay the same. The paddock rentals make the horses’ lives predictable and add to their overall well-being. Just one of many reasons that we come to Traverse City every summer!”

Building for the Future

Permanent barns are underway, providing a long-term investment in enhanced safety, improved airflow, and year-round durability for both horses and staff.

Details that Matter

While much of the showground has been paved for durability, TCHS takes it a step further, laying down mats in any area a horse may cross to prevent horses from slipping and straining. In the rings themselves, the footing is carefully groomed and maintained, assuring that the horses are given the best chances to show off!

Expertly groomed arenas next to matted areas for the horses to walk safely. PC: Meg Gehron

TCHS installs mats beneath the tents before the horses ever arrive, ensuring a safer, more comfortable foundation from day one. PC: Meg Gehron

For Messenger Hill Farm, the decision to participate in the Traverse City Horse Shows is about more than just competition. It’s about choosing a facility where horse care, client experience, and operational excellence are treated with equal priority. And at TCHS, that is simply the standard.

For full schedules, prize lists, ticketing, and live stream options, visit traversecityhorseshows.com. Venue maps, spectator guides, and travel info are available at the same site.