A long time tradition in California Gold Country has returned to celebrate the rich history of working horses from the old days. The Draft Horse Classic — which first began in 1987, is running again at the Nevada County Fair Grounds in Grass Valley. Back in the day, the Gentle Giants basically ran the farm all over America — pulling wagons, plows and harvesters and other equipment that helped feed America. Now a unique group of teamsters, wagon builders, and horse lovers are keeping the old traditions alive and the visuals are just pure Americana.

Most people are familiar with the Budweiser Clydedales pulling the large red beer wagon. The Draft Horse Classic is every bit as exciting — with glittering paint jobs on the vintage wagons, and brilliant work by teamsters and their horse teams.

The public can take tours of the barns. Many a young child may get to touch a horse for the first time. And the teamsters and drivers love to teach people about this part of our past that is very much alive today.