Some streets to be shut down to traffic in downtown Ponoka Friday night

The roads will be block off while a street game is played

Ponoka residents might be surprised to see people in horse drawn carriages around the downtown area this Friday night.

A traditional event from the Netherlands returns to Ponoka for the 5th year in a row. 

It's called "Ringsteken" and participants have to try and grab a ring hanging from a post while they quickly ride by either on a horse or in a carriage.  According to the event's organizer, Loekie Van Dobben "you have to have a pretty good aim."

Competitors are awarded points for successfully spearing the rings.   

It's put on by the Alberta Friesian Horse Association but they're not the only breed of horse represented at the competition. 

"There will be a fjord competing. There will be Gypsy horses, there will be miniature ponies, just all kinds of breeds actually."

Van Dobben explained the game has grown in popularity.  This year they have 25 people taking part and the public is invited to attend.

"We will have a cotton candy stand for kids that they can get free cotton candy. We will also have glitter tattoos for kids and that will also be free. The participation is also free for the people that participate and we have sponsors that help us pay for all these things to get it to town."

The action gets underway at 6:30pm.