Smiling Goat Ranch will host its 6th Annual Hay Bale Ball on Sunday, August 23, from 4–6:30 p.m. at the Snowmass Rodeo Grounds, celebrating the Year of the Horse and the extraordinary bond between horses and humans.

This year’s event, “Celebrating the Horse in the Year of the Horse,” will feature an evening of Western spirit, inspiring performances and community—all in support of Smiling Goat Ranch’s mission to harness the healing power of horses.

“The horse has always been at the heart of what we do at Smiling Goat Ranch. They have an extraordinary ability to meet people exactly where they are and help create connection, confidence and hope,” said Sheryl Barto, founder and executive director of Smiling Goat Ranch. “This year’s Hay Bale Ball is our opportunity to celebrate that remarkable relationship and the many lives touched by these incredible animals.”

The evening will include a special Legacy Tribute to Lt. Colonel Dick Merritt, a founding board member of Smiling Goat Ranch who was instrumental in establishing the Ranch’s veteran program. The tribute will feature the Aspen Fire Protection District’s Honor Guard, honoring Merritt’s lasting legacy and his commitment to creating healing opportunities for veterans through the human-horse connection. Also planned is a featured performance by the Westernaires Varsity Red Team, showcasing more than 25 horses and riders in precision drills and Western horsemanship.

Guests will also enjoy a special blessing and musical performance by Jennifer Grais, shamanic healer, horse-human relationship facilitator and singer-songwriter, who toured with Jackson Browne from 1998–2005.

The event will honor Sue Pietrzak and Patience Griffiths for their generous gifts of remarkable horses that will enrich the lives of Smiling Goat Ranch participants for years to come. Cody Wood, professional rodeo announcer and host of The Woodshed Podcast on the EQUUS Radio Network, returns as emcee.
Thanks to Smiling Goat Ranch’s partnership with the Snowmass Rodeo, this year’s event will feature expanded infrastructure, including a larger tent and additional VIP tables.