The 2026 Dakota Showdown teams are working hard this summer, and now it's your turn to cheer them on!

Vote for your favorite team by making a donation to their Fan Favorite campaign. Every dollar donated counts as one vote, and the team that raises the most will be crowned our Fan Favorite at the Dakota Showdown Finale on August 23, after the Freestyle Exhibitions! Better yet, every dollar raised helps support the Dakota Showdown and the horses of Gentle Spirit Horses Rescue.

White Elephant Raffle

Every dollar you donate also earns one raffle ticket in your team's Fan Favorite jar.

After the Freestyle performances, we'll draw one winner from each team's jar, starting with the team that raised the least and ending with the Fan Favorite team. Winners can either choose a prize from the table or "steal" a prize that has already been claimed. If your prize is stolen, you'll simply choose another prize or steal a different one!

The first drawing—from the Fan Favorite team's jar—will win our Grand Prize.

Most prizes are valued at $20–40, with one larger Grand Prize. Each prize may only be stolen twice. Once a prize has been stolen a second time, it stays with its final owner.

You do not need to be present to win. If you're unable to attend, you may designate someone to choose a prize on your behalf, or one of our volunteers will select one for you. Winners are responsible for any shipping costs if prizes need to be mailed.

Learn more about the Dakota Showdown teams and trainers at www.DakotaShowdown.com.

2026 Fan Favorite & Fundraiser

Team Members