Centenary University’s Second Annual Mane Event Returns September 12

CENTENARY UNIVERSITY’S SECOND ANNUAL MANE EVENT RETURNS SEPTEMBER 12

Equine expo and family fun day will support pasture improvements for the University’s equine herd

Photo Caption (L to R): Horse Samba assists in a pulse electromagnetic therapy demonstration with alumna Abigail Fragetta ‘26 and Jess Colantuono, Faculty, Centenary University Department of Equine Studies and Animal Health. Centenary University will host its second annual Mane Event on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Centenary University Equestrian Center in Long Valley, NJ.

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HACKETTSTOWN, NJ, AUG. 31, 2026—Centenary University will host its second annual Mane Event on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Centenary University Equestrian Center in Long Valley, New Jersey. Proceeds from this year’s event will support pasture improvements for the ongoing care of Centenary’s equine herd.

Hosted by the University’s Equine Studies and Animal Health Department, the Mane Event is an equine expo, family fun day, and fundraiser offering educational and interactive experiences open to Centenary University students and families, equestrians, and the general public.

Last year’s inaugural Mane Event welcomed approximately 400 guests and raised $37,000 to purchase a shockwave therapy machine, a veterinary device which supports the health and well-being of the University’s horses. The Centenary University Department of Equine Studies & Animal Health teaches students about riding, management, husbandry, grooming, and other aspects of equine care.

“Last year’s Mane Event demonstrated the tremendous enthusiasm that exists for Centenary University’s equine programs and the horses at the heart of our students’ education,” said Kelly Munz, Dean, Centenary University Department of Equine Studies and Animal Health. “We look forward to building on last year’s momentum from with more learning, family activities, and stronger community connections to help raise funds that will directly benefit our herd.”

Last year’s favorites will return, including all day equine lectures and a variety of equestrian demonstrations, the Parade of the Hounds, the horseless horse show, a tricky tray, shopping, children’s crafts, face painting, bingo, and beer and food trucks. Event sponsor NEOGEN will present a specialized lecture on botulism and its impact on equine health.

New this year are live question and answer panels, a visit from the New Jersey mounted police, a complimentary Breyer model horse painting station, horseless barrel racing, a farrier exhibit, a 50/50 raffle, family games, and a faculty and staff dunk tank. No experience is required for these activities; the Mane Event is designed to offer fun and education to all ages and educational levels.

Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door. Advance tickets and early registration for the horseless horse show and horseless barrel racing are available through the Centenary Mane Event Registration Portal.

Individuals and organizations interested in sponsorships, donations, and/or vendor opportunities can learn more here.

This year’s vendors include:

Food and beer trucks include:

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY

Founded in 1867 by the United Methodist Church, Centenary University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in a strong liberal arts foundation and career-focused learning. Located in Hackettstown, New Jersey, with an equestrian center in Washington Township, Centenary provides students with hands-on, personalized educational experiences that prepare them for success in a global and evolving workforce. Guided by its commitment to student success, university vitality, and world engagement, Centenary empowers students to lead lives of purpose, impact, and lifelong achievement. For more information, visit centenaryuniversity.edu⁠.

Media Contact: Cara Daniello
Director of Communications and Public Relations
908-852-1400 ext. 2010
Cara.Daniello@CentenaryUniversity.edu

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Centenary University’s Second Annual Mane Event Returns September 12