Hundreds of people turned out for the 32nd annual St. Croix Horse & Carriage Sleigh Festival Sunday at the Washington County Fairgrounds Sunday.

"It was wonderful," said John Block, who co-chaired the event with his wife of 41 years, Mary. "We had a lot of people, many different sleighs, it was just a fun event."

More than 60 participants - some dressed in 1800s period clothing - came from the Dakotas, Iowa and all over Minnesota and Wisconsin to show their horses and sleighs.

Block, a Marine on St. Croix resident, said county fair officials estimated at least 350 vehicles made their way to the event, the second year it was held at the fair. He didn't have an exact figure for how many people attended.

"But I haven't talked to the doughnut guy yet," he said. "That's usually a good indicator. ... The stands were full."

Contrary to other horse events, Block said, the participants share ideas and information about their hobby, offering tips to their competitors.

"There's so much camaraderie," he said.

For more information about the St. Croix Horse & Carriage Sleigh Festival, or to become a sponsor, call Block at 651-433-5312.