Pony Party at Morning Star Farm
What child doesn't dream of being a cowgirl or cowboy, riding their pony across the range? When my daughter was invited to a Pony Party for a friend's birthday at Novato's Morning Star Farm, we were all pretty excited. In case you're not familiar with it, Morning Star Farm is the large equestrian facility that you'll see in west Novato at the corner of Novato Boulevard and Sutro Avenue, directly across the street from San Marin High School.
Morning Star's Pony Parties are for children ages 3 and up, and our suitable for children up to 9 years old, although older kids can be accomodated with larger mounts if needed. The Pony Parties include one hour of hand-led pony rides, a trip to the farm's petting zoo—which includes goats, lambs, pigs miniature horses, ducks, and bunnies, and play time on their large play structure. Each child's pony ride lasts five to seven minutes and takes them through Morning Star Farm's scenic grounds.
I have to admit, I was a little nervous about my three-year-old going a pony ride, but I was able be nearby at all times. My daughter of course loved the pony ride and wanted to go a second time. In fact all we heard about her for at least two weeks after the party was how she wanted a Pony Party of her own when it came time for her birthday!
In case of rain, parties are held indoors in the farm's Red Barn and the pony rides are given in a covered riding arena. While the play structure isn't available on rainy days, they'll bring out an extra pony for the children to groom and decorate.
Pony Parties at Morning Star farm are available on Saturdays from 2:30 to 4:30 pm year-round, and also from 10 am to noon May through September. Rainy day facilities are not available during the 10 to noon time slot.
Prices are $200 for a two-pony party (up to 15 children), $260 for a three-pony party (up to 20 children), and $325 for a four-pony party (up to 25 children). A bounce house can be added for an additional $50 per hour. Call them at (415) 897-1633 for availability and to book a time slot.
You should bring snacks, drinks, a cake, decorations, party favors, and whatever else you think you'll need for a great birthday party. Children planning on riding a pony should bring a bike helmet, as Morning Star Farm does not provide them. They also provide an outdoor washing station for children to clean up at before eating. You might want to bring some hand sanitizer or wipes. It is a working farm, after all.
For more information, call (415) 897-1633 or visit www.morningstarfarm.info.
