Autumn on Horseback: A Celebration of Equestrian Events

Enjoy a season full of equestrian entertainment and plenty of family fun! As fall comes to the Brandywine Valley, our area comes alive with all the excitement of equestrian tradition.

From show rings to cross-country fields, the lineup for the season is packed with highlights, including Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show and Country Fair, Devon Fall Classic, Plantation Field International Horse Trials, Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill and ending with the 90th running of the PA Hunt Cup.

With events extending from Labor Day weekend through early November, the next few months are packed with horseplay that’s fun for the whole family!

Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show & Country Fair

Photos: Alyssa Murphree Media

Start the current equestrian season off right with an 82-year-long Labor Day weekend tradition — August 30 to September 1 — at Ludwig’s Corner. The centerpiece of the event is, of course, this beloved community horse show, one of the most popular equestrian events in the Brandywine Valley.

This locally rated competition kicks off each day at 8 a.m. and continues until dusk. With three rings running throughout the weekend, there’s always something to see!

Saturday’s competitions highlight hunter classes, where riders are judged on equitation — meaning the horse and rider’s manners, movement, style and overall performance, both over fences and on the flat. Sunday features the derby classes, where riders wear formal attire and jump fences typically found in the hunt field. Then on Monday, the focus shifts to jumpers — those fast-paced classes where speed is key, but accuracy is just as important. Riders must avoid knocking down any fences or face a time penalty.

In addition to the main competitions, each day includes a variety of other events, including the annual carriage exhibition and pleasure drive, crowd-favorite leadline classes with the kiddos and side saddle divisions.

But the excitement doesn’t stop in the rings. Ludwig’s Corner also presents a Country Fair offering plenty of family-friendly fun, including inflatables, carnival rides and games enjoyed all day when you purchase a wristband. There’s even more fun with the costumed pet parade, horseback archery demonstrations and the antique car show, all on the showgrounds.

Remember to grab a bite from the many food trucks with mouthwatering options or kick back at the beer garden while you take in all the action. Plus, there’s a vendor marketplace featuring local artisans and boutique shops great for some retail therapy.

IF YOU GO: Aug. 30–Sept. 1, $10/carload. 1326 Pottstown Pk., Glenmoore. LudwigsHorseShow.com

Devon Fall Classic

Photos: Olivia Airhart, Mane Source Media for Phelps Media Group

For a long weekend full of fun, the Devon Fall Classic returns for their 12th anniversary, September 11 to 14. This event is a quieter, less crowded counterpart to May’s Devon Horse Show and offers an opportunity for a wider range of riders. This four-day, all-jumper — and all excitement — event is held in the famous Dixon Oval at the Devon Horse Show grounds.

Highlights include the jumper shows, including Welcome Stake on Thursday, Open Speed Stake on Friday and, of course, the Devon Fall Classic on Saturday evening. Plus a leadline class — featuring the smallest equestrians — on Saturday afternoon. These high intensity events are thrilling to watch, as riders compete for the fastest times and biggest prizes — up to $25,000. Events kick off each day at 8 a.m.

While you’re there, take a stroll through Vendor Village, with 30+ shops offering everything from handmade goods to unique gifts from sources like Highland Cottage Candles and Tuyet Distinctive Jewelry. Then check out what’s happening at the pavilion, from a kids craft zone at noon Saturday to live music in the evenings, Thursday through Saturday.

Looking for something more laidback? Head to Clydesdale Corner for their Septemberfest beer garden to enjoy food, wine, mixed drinks, beer (of course) and great live performances from DJ Brian Bohn, the Rick Office Band and Just Add Water. If you’re hungry for more, visit A Taste of Philly food truck or the many food stalls on site offering tacos, gyros, burgers, grilled cheese and more treats.

Be sure to check out the fair rides and classic carnival games at the Midway — they’re a hit with kids of all ages!

IF YOU GO: Sept. 11–14, $15; reserved seats, $15–$25; kids 5 and under, free. Livestreamed on USEFT network and ESPN3. 23 Dorset Rd., Devon. DevonHorseShow.net/Fall-Classic

Plantation Fields International Horse Trials

Photos: AK Dragoo Photography

Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of eventing at the Plantation Field International Horse Trials and Country Fair, September 18 to 21, in the heart of Chester County. Widely regarded as one of the premier equestrian events on the East Coast, this four-day spectacle blends elite competition with the charm and warmth of a classic country fair.

Often described as an equestrian triathlon, eventing is a test of both horse and rider’s versatility, partnership and athleticism. Horse-and-rider pairs must demonstrate their skill across a distinct and demanding set of three disciplines — dressage, cross county and show jumping.

Set in the stunning rolling hills of southern Chester County, the 350-acre site for Plantation Field is a venue like no other — breathtaking, historic and perfectly suited for the world-class event. Whether you’re a lifelong equestrian enthusiast or a curious newbie, you’ll be captivated by the energy of top-tier competitors, including local rising stars and Olympians alike.

For something extra special on Friday, buy a Cocktails on Course ticket ($40) so you can grab a drink while walking the course alongside the riders. Or slip on your best cowboy boots and head for a hoedown on Saturday ($50) complete with live music and a mechanical bull.

If you’re craving a treat, check out the beer garden and food court for some delicious food while you watch the festivities. There are plenty of vendors and kids activities to keep you occupied when you aren’t watching the equestrian events.

Spend the weekend surrounded by thrilling competition, festive country fair fun and the unmatched beauty of one of our area’s most scenic landscapes. It’s more than just a horse show — it’s an unforgettable celebration of equestrian sport and country charm.

IF YOU GO: Sept. 18–21, $20. 347 Green Valley Rd., Coatesville. PlantationField.com/International

MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill

Photos: Shannon Brinkman (top and middle), Exit 10 (bottom)

The eventing fanfare continues this fall in Cecil County as the fifth annual MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill gallops into action October 16 to 19. As one of only two 5 Star events in the U.S. — and among just seven worldwide — this prestigious competition draws elite international eventing to Maryland for four days of equine sporting excitement. The Maryland 5 Star showcases the best of the best — Olympians, national champions and rising stars — all vying for top honors on the renowned grounds of Fair Hill Special Event Zone.

In addition to the equestrian competition, the Maryland 5 Star offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. From live music and shopping to local food vendors, plus a beer, wine and spirits showcase, there’s something to suit every taste.

For those eager to learn more about the unique history of equine athletes, swing by the Hall of Champions exhibit. Or if you’re trying to keep the little ones entertained, head to the kid’s corner for all sorts of fun. This year marks the return of popular events like pony racing on Saturday and the fan-favorite Maryland Corgi Cup — adorable pups racing to the finish line on the iconic turf track on Sunday.

New this year is an exciting addition to the schedule: the Real Rider Cup — a charity jumper show where riders compete on offtrack thoroughbreds (retired racehorses), aiming to complete a course quickly and cleanly. Participants range from Olympians and champion jockeys to veterinarians and exercise riders. All riders pledge to raise at least $1,000 for charity, a generous feature of this elite event.

IF YOU GO: Oct. 16–19, $18–$35; kids 10 and under, free. 4600 Telegraph Rd., Elkton, MD. Maryland5Star.us

Pennsylvania Hunt Cup

After being forced to cancel last year due to unsafe ground conditions, the Pennsylvania Hunt Cup returns for its 90th year on Sunday, November 2. Competitors vie for glory in a timber steeplechase race over four miles and 18 fences. A substantial test of both horse and rider, it’s one of just three four-mile steeplechases sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association.

The PA Hunt Cup is once again “Racing for Food.” Proceeds benefit the Chester County Food Bank, which distributes food to over 50,000 residences annually — because no one in our community should go hungry

IF YOU GO: Nov. 2. Ticket sales start Sept. 1. 1759 Newark Rd., Kennett Square. PAHuntCup.org