The Royal Alpaca Challenge show, presented by the Georgia Alpaca Association is coming to the International Horse Park on Nov. 6 and 7.

The event is free for both children and adults who wish to see alpaca's compete in the show ring, obstacle course, costume and showmanship competitions.

Vendors will be on hand, selling sweaters, hats, scarves, rugs and yarn made of alpaca fleece. There will also be a fiber arts display and demonstrations, along with a knitters lounge, where you can learn or share new knitting, spinning or weaving techniques or buy fiber art supplies. A silent auction table will also be available.

Alpacas are native to South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia and Chile and were first imported into the US in 1984. In 1997, the US had roughly 1,000 alpaca owners. Today, the numbers have more than quadrupled with the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) showing more than 4,000 members. Over 100,000 registered alpacas now reside throughout North America. Interest in raising this unique, fiber animal continues to grow.

Call 706-897-2379 for more details on this free event or visit www.RoyalAlpacaChallenge.com .