The oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America returns, May 20 – May 31, 2026

DEVON, Pa.--Started in 1896, the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair is the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America and draws top competitors from around the world. In 2026, Devon proudly celebrates its 130th Anniversary with 12 days of world-class equestrian sport, family fun, and community philanthropy, taking place May 20 through May 31, 2026.

McLain Ward on Callas (Photo by Kind Media)This milestone year carries special national significance as it coincides with America’s 250th Anniversary. Founded in the heart of the Philadelphia region—the birthplace of our nation—Devon has long stood as a living reflection of the values that shaped America: volunteerism, civic pride, perseverance, and community. As the country prepares to commemorate America 250, it is especially meaningful that Philadelphia has been recognized as the number one city to visit in 2026, affirming what so many in this region have always known: its history, culture, and traditions continue to resonate on a global stage. For 130 years, Devon has proudly been part of that American story.

“It is my distinct honor and privilege to welcome our competitors, families, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and spectators to the 130th Anniversary of the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair,” said Wayne W. Grafton, Chairman and CEO. “As we celebrate 130 years of Devon and commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary, we reflect not only on our remarkable history, but on the generations who have preserved this tradition. Our commitment to excellence, philanthropy, and community remains unwavering. Devon’s future is strong, its legacy enduring, and its place in American equestrian history secure—where champions have always met and always will.”

 

OVER THE past year, Devon has continued to make thoughtful investments to enhance its facilities and improve the experience for competitors, spectators, and volunteers alike ensuring that this historic venue remains vibrant for future generations.

Lillie Keenan on Opium van de Moerhoeve (Photo by Kind Media)A Premier International Equestrian Destination

Designated as a US Equestrian Heritage Competition—one of only four horse shows to receive this honor—Devon has earned its place as one of the world's most prestigious equestrian events. The show consistently ranks among the top 25 horse shows by the North American Riders Group and has been named Horse Show of the Year by the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame more than fifty percent of the time since the award's inception.

Each year, the Devon Horse Show draws more than 1,500 competitors from across the nation and around the world. Over the decades, Devon has welcomed Olympic legends and champions including McLain Ward (four-time Olympic medalist and 12-time winner of the Sapphire Grand Prix), Beezie Madden, Rodrigo Pessoa, Jessica Springsteen, Margie Engle, Phillip Dutton, Boyd Martin, Buck Davidson, and Scott Stewart. Their participation underscores Devon's reputation as a premier venue where equestrian excellence and American tradition meet.

130 Years of Milestones

What began on July 2, 1896, as a modest one-day show has evolved into an internationally recognized 12-day spectacle. The show was originally conceived by gentlemen of the Main Line area seeking to improve their carriage stock, as horses were the primary mode of transportation in the newly developed Philadelphia suburbs.

Key Historical Milestones:
• 1896: First Devon Horse Show held at the Devon Racetrack and Polo Grounds
• 1914: Devon became the largest outdoor horse show in the United States
• 1918: Despite World War I, a scaled-down show raised over $9,000 for war relief efforts
• 1919: The Country Fair was added; Bryn Mawr Hospital named beneficiary
• 1940: First night classes held under the lights
• 2010: Devon became just the fourth American horse show to receive the US Equestrian Heritage designation
• 2015: The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission installed a commemorative state historical marker outside the show grounds
• 2022: Devon celebrated its 125th Anniversary and honored prestigious Devon Legends

Today, Devon offers $1 million in prize money across multiple disciplines, making it a true multi-breed celebration of equestrian sport.

Honoring America 250 – Memorial Day Tribute

In keeping with its deep American roots, Devon will host a special “Tribute to Heroes” Opening Ceremony on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, as part of its America 250 recognition.

The ceremony will feature the Valley Forge Park Alliance alongside a George Washington reenactor and Color Guard, honoring active and retired military, veterans, and first responders. The historic Orpheus Club of Philadelphia will perform The National Anthem and God Bless America, reinforcing the patriotic spirit of the evening before Carriage Eventing begins in the Dixon Oval at 7 PM.

A Legacy of Philanthropy

Beyond its equestrian prestige, Devon remains deeply committed to philanthropy. As the largest community donor to Bryn Mawr Hospital, Devon has raised more than $20 million since 1919.

Currently, Devon is contributing toward its $2 million pledge to support the hospital's new inpatient psychiatric unit—a critical community health need. Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, and advertisement placed helps ensure Devon's legacy of impact in both sport and community.

World-Class Competition and Entertainment

The 130th Anniversary show will feature many of the sport’s most anticipated events, including:
• Leadline (Saturday, May 23)
• Carriage Pleasure Drive (Sunday, May 24)
• $50,000 Arena Eventing (Sunday, May 24)
• $32,000 Jet Run Welcome Stake (May 26)
• $32,000 Main Line Challenge Speed Stake (May 27)
• $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby (May 28)
• $210,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon (May 28)
• $32,000 Devon Speed Derby (May 29)
• $182,000 Idle Dice Open Jumper Stake (May 30)

The show will be livestreamed internationally to 57 countries on the USEF Network and ESPN3. Devon is the second most viewed equestrian event in the world on ESPN3.

Key Opportunities for Stakeholders
• Advertising Rates available through March 2026
• Custom Sponsorship Packages
• 125,000+ in-person attendees
• 2 million+ digital engagements
• 2026 Prize List now live
• Entry deadlines begin April 1, 2026

The success of Devon is made possible by more than 2,200 volunteers who embody the spirit of community and service—values that echo both Devon’s founding principles and the broader celebration of America 250.

About The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair

Started in 1896, the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair is the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America and draws top competitors from around the world. With the grandeur of Philadelphia's historic Main Line as its backdrop, the show continues to reflect the local traditions and lifestyles of the community. More than 2,200 volunteers run the event and offer a variety of boutique shops, amusement rides and games for kids, multiple dining options, and live entertainment. Proceeds support The Bryn Mawr Hospital.

The Devon Horse Show Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates to serve the charitable and educational purposes of The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, Inc. It also supports the maintenance and improvement of the historic Devon Horse Show grounds to ensure its position as one of the premier equestrian event facilities in the world.

More information about the 2026 show is available at:
https://www.devonhorseshow.net/