The Kilkivan Great Horse Ride began nearly 40 years ago as an event to celebrate trail riding on horseback throughout the beautiful rural region surrounding Kilkivan in South-East Queensland.

Over the years it has evolved into a signature event for the western towns district of the Gympie local government area.

Feedback held after each event has meant the event has evolved away from the singular focus of a horse riding event and into a festival to enjoy all things ‘country’.

In 2025, the event has been renamed to include a Country Weekend Escape with the aim of attracting more ‘non-horsey’ people to attend and participate in a program of events that includes a youth talent quest, dog flyball, lighthorse demonstrations, bush poetry, camp oven cook-off, and more.

The Kilkivan Great Horse Ride is managed by a volunteer-led, community not-for-profit organisation. It is entirely funded by generous sponsors and a community grant delivered by the Gympie Regional Council.

There’s much fun to be had by camping at the event. Campsites are available at the Kilkivan Showgrounds and there’s plenty of room for big rigs and small. Campfires are welcome if they are contained and the event is dog friendly.

We look forward to seeing you from Friday 11 April 2025 to Sunday 13 April 2025.