Known as a vibrant equestrian destination and home of the Carolina International CCI and Horse Trial, the Carolina Horse Park is preparing to demonstrate just how versatile their grounds are. Drawing inspiration from a successful Chili Cook-Off hosted on the grounds years ago, March 14 marks their first annual Friends and Neighbors Day, a dynamic outdoor event featuring a Chili Cook-Off, Dog Agility Demonstration, and People’s Steeplechase 5k & 10K.
“Over the years, we’ve realized that many of our neighbors may drive past the Carolina Horse Park without ever attending a horse show, and perhaps without truly knowing what happens here,” shared Renee Felter, director of development and philanthropy. “Friends & Neighbors Day was created as a welcoming, non-equestrian event—an open invitation to families, local organizations, and community members who might not otherwise step onto the property.”
While this year marks the beginning of the evolving tradition, the impact they hope to make is clear. Felter explained that they want relationships to extend beyond competition weekends by introducing people to the park in a relaxed setting.
“By offering activities that appeal to a broader audience, we aim to ensure the Carolina Horse Park is not only an equestrian venue, but a true community gathering place,” she explained.
The multi-faceted happenings of the day, though held on grounds typically reserved for equestrian use, will not feature horses.
“Our grounds provide an ideal footprint for events such as 5k and 10k races, and we are actively building our canine programming, having recently hosted our first canine competition in partnership with the Moore County Kennel Club,” said Felter of their broadening focus. “These experiences reinforced the idea that the Park can successfully serve a broader audience.”
Friends and neighbors can see this for themselves on March 14 by attending as a spectator or participating in the three featured activities.
A Cook-Off Ticket buys attendees the opportunity to sample crowd favorite chilis, vote for their top favorite picks, and enjoy a lively day at the Park watching canine and human athletes.
5k and 10k registrants will “trade the city streets for rolling hills, open fields, and winding paths where horses usually compete,” according to Carolina Horse Park. A challenge even for seasoned runners, the competition features a clearly marked course, an up-close look at the unique equestrian venue, a festive finish near the grandstand, and a free Cook-Off Ticket with race registration. Same-day registration and pickup are available on March 14, from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
Foodies will love the opportunity to show off their best pot of Chili and sample others’ creations. A Master Chef Entry ticket purchases a chance to place in the top three entries for: People's Choice, Judge's Choice Professionals, Judge's Choice Amateurs, Side Dish and Presentation. Bring your boldest flavors and prepare for friendly competition!
Canine-lovers can enter their pup in the Dog Agility Demonstration, or observe and cheer on the talented pups from the sidelines. Expect an exciting demonstration of teamwork, speed, and training as the animals race through jumps, tunnels, and weave poles.
Felter says the future of Friends and Neighbors Day is still developing.
“In the future, I see the three core elements of Friends & Neighbors Day continuing to grow and evolve. The Chili Cook-Off has the potential to become a highlight for the ever-growing "foodie" community, while our partners in the 5k/10k, Sandhills Run Club, are planning exciting expansions for 2027. The Canine component could also develop into a full agility competition, offering even more opportunities for engagement,” she explained. “Additionally, I envision adding vendor booths to give local businesses a chance to share their stories, services, and products, further strengthening the community connection and making the event even more dynamic and inclusive.”
For now, Friends and Neighbors Day 2026 will be a chance to get outside, enjoy beautiful scenery, sample top regional food talent, test your athletic skills, and appreciate the grit and enthusiasm of canine and human competitors. According to Felter, it’s all about “celebrating community and creating deeper connections with those around us.”
Friends and Neighbors Day will be held on March 15 at 9 a.m. at 2814 Montrose Rd, Raeford, NC. Learn more and purchase tickets at carolinahorsepark.com

(Photo courtesy of Carolina Horse Park)