Dressage at Devon: A Must-Attend Event for Family and Fun

The Devon horse show grounds transform every fall into an epicenter of equestrian excellence and family-friendly festivities. For over four decades, Dressage at Devon has celebrated the elegance and athleticism of dressage, creating a unique event that draws fans from around the world and around the Brandywine Valley.

In anticipation of the 2024 event, September 24 to 29, let’s explore the rich history, thrilling performances and many attractions that make this event an essential experience for all.

A Storied Tradition

Since its beginning in 1975, Dressage at Devon has evolved into one of North America’s premier dressage competitions. Originating in 1965, the event aimed to promote dressage and provide top-notch training for riders. By 1975, it had found a permanent home at the Devon Horse Show Grounds, known for its iconic blue grandstands and welcoming atmosphere.

Throughout the years, Dressage at Devon has evolved, introducing new events while staying true to its roots. It’s become a must-attend event for dressage riders globally, offering a chance to witness the sport’s finest.

The Spectacle of Dressage

For those unfamiliar with the sport, dressage is often described as “ballet on horseback.” It showcases the harmony between horse and rider as they execute a series of intricate, prescribed movements that are specific to dressage. These maneuvers include the piaffe (an elevated trot in place), the passage (a trot with forward motion) and the pirouette (where the horse turns in a circle in place).

Dressage’s origins can be traced back to ancient Greece, where horses were trained for battle maneuvers that required agility and precision. As warfare evolved, dressage became an art form celebrated by European aristocrats. The Spanish Riding School in Vienna, established in 1572, played a significant role in shaping modern dressage and laid the groundwork for today’s competitions.

One of the standout events each year is the Saturday night Grand Prix Freestyle, where riders choreograph routines set to music. This blend of athleticism and artistry captivates audiences, whether the music is classical or contemporary. The Freestyle is a highlight that consistently leaves spectators in awe and cheering for more.

Many get their first glimpse of dressage during the Olympics and may have seen the competition held at Versailles, outside Paris, earlier this year. Dressage became an Olympic sport in 1912, initially restricted to military officers. By 1952, it opened to civilian riders, and today, men and women compete together. Look for past and future Olympic champions, including Boyd Martin, a current Chester County resident and 2024 eventing champion.

Family-Friendly Fun

But Dressage at Devon is more than just an elite competition. It’s a festival brimming with activities for all ages. The atmosphere and activities at Devon make it an ideal outing for families, offering attractions designed to engage and entertain.

The shopping and dining at Dressage at Devon are renowned, offering some of the best on the equestrian circuit. From gourmet coffee to the festive pub and food for every palate, spectators can relax in the picnic grove or pub and watch the competition on big screens, to catch every bit of the Dixon Oval action!

Boutique vendors are open all week, with offerings perfect for equestrian enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike. Whether you’re looking for high-quality tack, stylish apparel or unique souvenirs, the Vendor Village has something for you.

And for the kiddos, young equestrians can enjoy Sunday’s Dressage Explorers Day for Kids. Activities include making stick horses to ride in the Dixon Oval, a selfie scavenger hunt, trick-or-treating through Vendor Village, and learning about animal care and vet school from the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center Vet Truck. Plenty of fun geared toward the horse-crazy kid!

For adults, Shop, Sip and Stroll on Tuesday, 5 to 7 p.m. at the Fall Festival. Visitors can enjoy shopping and complimentary wine and cheese tastings as vendors offer equestrian gear, fine art and more, with some donating proceeds to support Dressage at Devon. Then on Wednesday, 5 to 7 p.m., relax at The Pub with a cocktail and enjoy a fashion show, featuring items from Fall Festival vendors for a touch of glamour at the festivities.

More Events and Attractions

Dressage at Devon promises a mix of new and returning attractions to delight both newcomers and seasoned visitors, including:

• Breed Events: Tuesday begins with Individual Breed Classes, showcasing diverse horse breeds, and concludes with the Parade of Breeds, where winners get special rosettes, and the announcer shares each breed’s history and highlights.
• Dressage Dance-Off Contest: Friday evening features the Dance-Off Contest, a thrilling head-to-head competition where elite Grand Prix riders and their horses perform an improvised routine to live music. Participants are judged by a panel including break-dancing experts. This unique event is a must-see spectacle. Get up on your feet and cheer them on!
• Spectator Judging: Friday and Saturday nights include the exciting Grand Prix Special and Grand Prix Musical Freestyle classes. Add to your fun by downloading a free app to score the performances in real time, then compare your results with the judges’.
• Lectures and Classes:
  • Western Dressage: Thursday offers a full day with international clinician and competitor Lynn Palm’s lecture series on western dressage. Stay on to watch the afternoon competition and the evening masterclass featuring a western dressage rider.
  • Masterclass: Also on Thursday, Australian dressage star Brett Parbery presents an exclusive masterclass, with a deep dive into dressage techniques. A must for serious equestrians.
  • Lecture: On Friday, Shawna Karrasch presents a lecture on positive reinforcement training, focusing on “Nailing the Win by Improving the Emotional State of Your Horse.”
  • Triple Crown Lecture Series: Saturday’s lectures cover a new subject every 15 minutes along with a special autograph signing with world-renowned Triple Crown-sponsored riders.

The Heart of Dressage at Devon

What truly sets Dressage at Devon apart is its unique blend of top-tier competition and an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere. The event attracts a diverse crowd of horse lovers — from wide-eyed children experiencing the magic for the first time to seasoned competitors returning year after year. The intimate, European-like setting of the Devon Horse Show Grounds adds to its charm, creating an electrifying environment where spectators and competitors alike can feel the excitement and camaraderie.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary celebration of equestrian excellence and family fun!

IF YOU GO

What: Dressage at Devon

When: September 24 – 29, 2024

Where: Devon Horse Show Grounds, 23 Dorset Rd., Devon

Tickets: Adults, $15–$50; children (3–12), $10; under 3, free. Reserved seating available online

Info: DressageAtDevon.org

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