DEVON, Pa. (April 9, 20206) – A new tradition will take the spotlight this Memorial Day as the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair introduces Carriage Eventing for the first time in its 130-year history. This exciting discipline will make its debut on Memorial Day evening at 7 p.m., bringing a thrilling new dimension to one of the most storied equestrian events in the country.
Combining the art of carriage driving with the excitement of a fast-paced obstacle course, Carriage Eventing will challenge competitors to race through both the Dixon Oval and the Wheeler Ring in a dynamic test of skill, precision, and speed. Every second counts, every corner matters, and the excitement is nonstop. Learn more about Carriage Eventing under our special events section at the below link.
The inaugural competition will feature 12 entries competing for a $10,000 prize, underscoring the significance of this new addition to Devon’s Memorial Day programming. The debut is supported by sponsors Bennington Carriages, Koehler’s Jewelry, and Election Services Online, helping launch what is expected to become a new Memorial Day tradition at Devon.
The addition of Carriage Eventing follows Devon’s Memorial Day programming, a special patriotic tribute honoring America’s 250th anniversary. In keeping with its deep American roots, Devon will host an expanded Tribute to Heroes Ceremony beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, May 25. The ceremony will feature the Valley Forge Park Alliance alongside a George Washington reenactor and Color Guard, the First City Troop, and local first responders, including recognition of a World War II veteran and a call for all active and retired military, fire, police, and EMS personnel in attendance to stand for a special flag unveiling.
THE PROGRAM will also include a moment of silence and patriotic musical performances by the Orpheus Club of Philadelphia, including The National Anthem and God Bless America, setting a meaningful tone for the evening before Carriage Eventing begins at 7 p.m. in the Dixon Oval.
“This Memorial Day, as we honor America 250 and pay tribute to those who have served our country, we are proud to introduce Carriage Eventing as an exciting new tradition at Devon,” said Wayne W. Grafton, Chairman and CEO of the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair. “This discipline blends heritage, athleticism, and spectacle, and its debut during our Tribute to Heroes celebration reflects both the historic significance of Devon and our commitment to creating memorable experiences for generations to come.”
The debut of Carriage Eventing builds on Devon’s legacy of innovation while honoring the traditions that have defined the show for more than a century. Spectators are invited to join Memorial Day evening to witness the debut of this spectacular discipline and experience the energy, precision, and pageantry that promise to make Carriage Eventing an instant Devon classic.
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/.
