LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Lake County's inaugural Californio Days was a great success despite last-minute date switches and short notice.

Approximately 400 people came to see the July 27 show, including many families with children. Another 100 participated as vendors, volunteers or performers.

The highlight of the event was the Fiesta of the Horse, enjoying its third year at Rancho de la Fuente.

A record number of acts made for a full and entertaining program with music, pageantry, fun and thrills.

Show producer Deb Baumann was pleased but not surprised by the creativity and dedication of the show performers.

“This area has many talented people with beautiful horses who just need a venue to show them off,” said Baumann. “Our original inspiration was those old Mickey Rooney-Judy Garland movies, the ones where the kids say 'Hey, we've got a barn – let's make a stage and  put on a show!' It's the same deal here – if we provide a venue, people are happy to come share their love of horses, and all their friends and neighbors can see what these magnificent animals can do.”

Following the horse entertainment there was food and wine served at the Barn, and a delightful performance by traditional Mexican singer Irma Lopez.

For the third year in a row, Rancho de la Fuente owners Frank and Rosanna Perez made their beautiful facility available at no charge.Together with Rancho Californio of Upper Lake, they co-hosted the event and look forward to seeing it grow in future years.

“It is our goal to keep this family-friendly, fun (yet educational) event free, to provide it at no charge to the public,” said Baumann. “In today's economy, even a modest admission fee could keep some people away.”

Rancho de la Fuente and Rancho Californio thank the many generous patrons whose contributions helped cover the costs: Balius Farm Miniature Horses, Highland Springs Equestrian Center, Highland Springs Trails Volunteers, Hooves & Wheels Carriage Club, Lake County Horse Council, Lake County Wine Studio, Rainbow Ag, RB Peters, Roni McFaddan, Seely Farm Stand, and Wildhurst Vineyards.

To see more photos and information about this event, visit  www.californio.us .