Beyond the Derby, Four More Equestrian Events to Attend This Spring
When spring arrives, all eyes turn to the Kentucky Derby, but that Louisville to-do is far from the only major equestrian event of the season in the South. Across the region, show jumping, eventing, and steeplechase competitions offer plenty of action for both horse lovers and casual spectators. From Florida’s elite showgrounds to the rolling bluegrass hills of Kentucky, these four competitions promise excitement, tradition, and a little something for everyone—with or without a mint julep.
Wellington, Florida
March 25–30
As this year’s Winter Equestrian Festival winds down in South Florida, the last week marks the grand finale at Wellington International—a fitting send-off in a town where golf carts zip past palm-lined barns and prize-winning horses live like royalty. The best riders in the world gather to compete, culminating in the $750,000 Rolex U.S. Equestrian Open CSI Five-Star—a high-stakes test of speed, precision, and nerve over towering jumps.
Even if you’ve never set foot in a barn, Wellington is worth a visit. The town is an equestrian playground where competitors train, polo matches unfold on perfectly manicured fields, and brunch spots are filled with riders still in their tall boots. At the festival’s popular Saturday Night Lights event, the energy shifts from serious sport to a festival-like atmosphere with live music and kid-friendly entertainment.
Tip: Arrive early to wander the venue and grab a drink before the competition. And after the event, stick around—riders often stay to mingle, and you might just rub elbows with an Olympian while waiting in line for a cocktail.
Pony Races at Loudoun Hunt Point-to-Point
Leesburg, Virginia
April 20
At the Loudoun Hunt Point-to-Point, a type of steeplechase event, the pony races are one of the most charming and entertaining parts of the day. Held at the historic Morven Park estate, this long-standing tradition showcases children and their spirited ponies for fast-paced, often unpredictable, and hilarious short-course races. Some ponies take off like racehorses, while others need a little extra encouragement from their pint-sized jockeys, and the crowd cheers just as loudly for the winners as they do for the stragglers. The sheer enthusiasm of the young riders—many of whom dream of bigger racing careers—makes it a heartwarming spectacle.
Beyond the pony races, the Loudoun Hunt Point-to-Point offers a full day of steeplechase racing, tailgating, and socializing in a setting that feels like stepping back in time. Families spread out picnic blankets, and the tradition of big hats, tweed jackets, and Bloody Marys is alive and well. “Point-to-points are smaller than your big sanctioned races,” says Jody Michel, whose daughters raced for several years. “Since it’s set at Morven Park, it’s more like a pretty place to hang out and relax and watch the horses, and much less rowdy than some of the larger races.”
Tip: Bring binoculars. While the races run close to the crowd, the best way to watch the action unfold across the wide-open course is with a good pair. Also, pack for Virginia’s unpredictable spring weather—sun, wind, and a surprise rain shower are all possible in one afternoon.
Lexington, Kentucky
April 24–27
Each April, the Kentucky Three-Day Event transforms the Kentucky Horse Park into the epicenter of equestrian sport. Known as the “Best Weekend All Year” to those who make the annual pilgrimage to America’s only theme park dedicated to horses, it’s a thrilling test of horsemanship in which riders tackle three phases at the highest level, all with $400,000 in prize money on the line.
Saturday’s cross-country day is the pinnacle of the event, drawing huge crowds to the bluegrass fields. Some stake out tailgate spots, while others roam the sprawling course, chasing the best views of horses galloping through water jumps and soaring over massive obstacles.
Beyond the competition, there’s plenty to do, including visiting all the exhibits and museums at the park itself. The vendor village is full of unique souvenirs, and the signature bourbon chicken is a must-try. With Lexington situated in the heart of bourbon country, a post-event distillery visit feels almost mandatory. But for a true Kentucky experience, take a scenic drive down Old Frankfort Pike or Paris Pike, where Thoroughbred foals nap in lush pastures behind iconic white fences.
Tip: Staying at the campground is a favorite among regulars—not only for the convenience but for the legendary cookouts that keep the party going long after the competition ends. Dogs are welcome at the event as well, and when they need a break from the action, there’s on-site doggie daycare.
Nashville, Tennessee
May 10
The Iroquois Steeplechase, a Nashville tradition since 1941, blends horse racing with Southern pageantry, making it as much a social event as a sporting one at Percy Warner Park. Many arrive early to set up tailgates complete with elaborate spreads, cocktails, and wide-brimmed hats that rival those at the Kentucky Derby. Children play between tents, fans place friendly wagers, and when the horses thunder past, all eyes turn to the track. The highlight is the Iroquois Stakes, a grueling three-mile test of speed and endurance over timber fences, which draws top steeplechase horses and jockeys from around the country.
The event also has a charitable side, with proceeds benefiting the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Whether you’re there for the racing, the fashion, or just the lively atmosphere, the Steeplechase is a quintessential Nashville experience that has been drawing crowds for over eighty years.
Tip: “Get there earlier than expected because there is a bit of a hike to get to the tailgate and bleacher areas,” says Laura Cox, a frequent spectator. Some of the best views of the course are from Box Holder Hill or along the rail near the finish line, but for a more relaxed experience, the Family Area offers shade, picnic space, and kid-friendly activities. If you’re new to steeplechase, watch the first race from the infield, where you’ll get an up-close view of the horses clearing the jumps.
