The Dream Ride which has enriched people’s and animal’s lives for the last 26 years, but it does not convey how dynamic the entire weekend has become and what a difference it has made is so many lives. It shows humanity at its best. Where there are no boundaries, obstacles and everyone deserves a chance to have at least some of their dreams come true.
Farmington, CT was abuzz because the annual Dream Ride Experience was happening at the Farmington Polo Grounds the from August 21-23, 2026.
This year alone this event raised a whopping 8 MILLION dollars for the various charities. For 26 years the Hometown Foundation organization has given their time and knowledge to gather such a diverse group of people to join in spirit for one weekend all in search of making the world a better place for many living souls. Those who have money give that, those who have time give that. Whatever gifts they bring to the table it is what they contribute.
At the heart of the Dream Ride Experience are individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities from across the United States and around the world. The event celebrates their strength, determination, and ability to overcome challenges while promoting inclusion, friendship, and community. Through the passion of participants and supporters the event continues to grow each year.
Not only this year but year after year. Some have repeated the experience for many years. It brings so many from all walks of life together and it’s so satisfying to see the true enjoyment everyone has. To beat it all a great deal of this year there was a bit of rain but people turned out in spite of it. It did clear off Sunday afternoon. But rain or nothing else was stopping this train. The motorcycle ride, bands, dog adoptions and K9 demonstrations. The 300-vehicle cruise with started with horns, sirens and continued to announce its presence through the route, which was adorned with spectators, some with checkered flags, along the route.
The looks and excitement on the faces of the participants, sponsors, volunteers and all who attended was well worth the hard work that the Hometown Foundation performs all year long to make this event and other events they sponsor each year so worth the effort. The fun and excitement is palpable and contagious.
It was incredibly heartwarming to see so many people come together for these great causes and it shows just how big a positive movement can become when people get together and give a bit of time, money or just care enough to try to make a positive difference in others’ lives. They build bonds that last as people meet year after year for this cause.
There were bands, music and so many smiles I can’t count. The weekend started with a polo tournament and motorcycle tour on Friday and ended with hugs smiles and promises to return again next year. If you have never taken in this great event you might want to think about setting aside some time near the middle of August next year.
For more information about the event at the Farmington Polo Club every August and how to make a difference in someone’s life next year visit Dream Ride Experience
Article by Donna Erichsen
Photos by George Bekris
