Sport
Robbie Herring
Preview
One of Ireland’s most loved equestrian, social and family festivals, the RDS Dublin Horse Show returns to the RDS from 14 – 18 August. Whether you are a longtime visitor of the show or are coming for the first time, here is a guide to everything going on at the RDS Dublin Horse Show and how to make the most of it.
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What is the RDS Dublin Horse Show?
Filled with great family fun, good food, fancy drinks and a little dressing up, the RDS Dublin Horse Show is an amazing experience and one of the best days out for the summer. Throughout the five days, the extensive RDS grounds will host the best of equestrian sport, with both national and international riders travelling to compete at The Show.
But it’s not all about the horses! The Show is a dazzling social occasion; a unique place to meet up with friends to experience lively bars, great food and shopping. The Show will be kicked off in style on Wednesday 14 August with the iconic tradition of the Lord Mayor of Dublin arriving in the mayor’s carriage. The elegant horse drawn carriage, only seen twice a year by the public, is a symbol of Dublin’s rich history as the mayor officially opens the show.
DHS 2023 Recap
What can I enjoy at the RDS Dublin Horse Show?
There is lots to do at The Show this year, with some of the world’s best international showjumping at the forefront. There are over 1600 horses competing this year throughout the five days. The classes include showing classes, performance classes and national & international showjumping, with the best horse and rider combinations from around the world being showcased. International teams will compete for the prestigious Aga Khan Trophy on Friday 16 August in the Nations Cup, sponsored by the Underwriting Exchange. The Defender Puissance competition will be held on Saturday, where horse and rider pairs will test their strength as they attempt to clear the increasing red brick jump. The iconic Rolex Grand Prix will close the show on Sunday 18 August, with a staggering €500,000 prize fund up for grabs.
Away from the horses, the RDS Dublin Horse show provides excellent entertainment that is guaranteed to keep the whole family engaged across the five days. This year, Festina Lente Positive Strides returns with demonstrations and panel discussions throughout the show, highlighting the positive impact equestrianism as on everyday life.
The Best Dressed competition, sponsored by 1664 Blanc, is held on what is traditionally known as Ladies Day, Thursday 15 August. Frocks, fascinators and fabulous style are part of this elegant day for both ladies and gents. Online registration is now open on the RDS Dublin Horse Show website here. Those who complete the online registration will go into the draw to win a Charlotte Tilbury hamper valued at €400. This year’s first place will take home a €10,000 cash prize, sponsored by 1664 Blanc. The prizes don’t stop there! Runner up will be treated to a 2-night B&B at the 5-star Morrison Dublin, Curio Collection by Hilton, plus 2 nights B&B at the Aleph Rome Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton AND a €100 airline voucher. There are also some great category prizes on the day, including most creative hat.
This year’s show features a host of equestrian entertainment including Tristian Tucker Masterclasses and Ben Atkinson’s stunt horse show. Tucker, the founder of the Global Horsemanship training platform, the TRT method, will share his equestrian expertise throughout the RDS Dublin Horse Show. Stuntman Ben Atkinson and his Action Horses will control up to 10 horses at liberty (without bridle and saddle), all while standing astride two horses.
Should I bring the whole family?
Absolutely! The RDS Dublin Horse Show is a family favourite and highlight of the summer holidays.
This years’ dedicated Family Area, located at the Church, behind the Grandstand, will keep children of all ages entertained with its wide range of activities and experiences. Thrilling adventures are on offer, where children can test their bravery with our climbing wall, meet beasts at the Nore Valley Park Mobile Farm or find their will to thrill at the Mini Defender Driving Experience. For those looking for creative fun, there will be face painters, balloon artists and roaming circus acts. Further, the educational and inspirational engagements, including the pop-up Gaeltacht and Positive Strides exhibition combine fun and learning.
What food and beverage options are available?
The food and beverage options at the 2024 RDS Dublin Horse include casual food trucks, dine in options and bars throughout the venue.
Can I shop at the event?
Yes, there are over 350 stores at this year’s RDS Dublin Horse Show, selling a wide range of products from fashion, homeware, garden & leisure and all things equestrian. This year’s show will also feature an Irish Craft and Farmers Market, where visitors can enjoy bespoke Irish products.
How do I get there?
Visitors are encouraged to utilise the many public transport options available when travelling to the RDS Dublin Horse Show. There are several major Dublin Bus routes that stop either right beside the venue or within a 5–10-minute walk. More information on these can be found here.
Additionally, the show is within a short walking distance of two Irish Rail Dart stations at Sandymount and Lansdown Road.
If you are planning to drive to the show, please note that there is no parking on at the RDS venue. You can find more information about pre-paid car parking available during the show, with free shuttle bus transfers here.
Is the RDS Dublin Horse Show accessible?
Yes, more information regarding accessibility at the RDS Dublin Horse Show can be found here.
Tickets for RDS Dublin Horse Show are on sale HERE.
