The 2024 Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is back for another year, running from Wednesday, May 22, through Sunday, June 2.
The oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair begins its 128th year in 2024.
An additional day has been added to this year’s horse show, giving visitors extra time to experience the show. There is also nearly $1 million in prize money. Another $1 million of ground improvements has also occurred, which will best accommodate the equestrians and loyal spectators.
“With the number of entries increasing every year, we are pleased to offer our riders and attendees an additional day of competition and pageantry. This change will distribute the events over an extra day so that the show ends in a timely manner on Sunday and concludes at a reasonable time each evening.” Wayne W. Grafton, CEO and Chairman of Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, said in a statement.
In 2024, competitors, exhibitors, and spectators will also benefit from more than $1 million in improvements to the grounds made over the past year. The money has gone toward barn refurbishments, show rings, the committee stand, and fairgrounds. The 12 days of world-class equestrian competition will include an all-star entertainment lineup, gourmet food, specialty boutiques, amusement rides, carnival games, and more.
The premier kick-off event is First Night at Devon, taking place on May 22. The festive evening will feature an open bar and gourmet fare. Each year, it brings an intimate gathering of 200 guests, complete with the company of exhibiting artists and friends of art, horsemanship, and philanthropy. Guests of First Night at Devon are among the first to preview and purchase original art from locally and nationally recognized artists.
Another popular event each year is the Carriage Pleasure Drive, taking place this year on Sunday, May 26. The ride starts this year at 11 a.m. and ends back at Devon around 1 p.m. Beginning at St. David’s Church, the carriages will wind through the local neighborhoods.
On Monday, May 27, Memorial Day, the Tribute to Heroes will take place. This tradition honors community heroes with a special recognition ceremony in the Dixon Oval. It features local military and emergency responders. It is an excellent opportunity to honor local first responders and their dedication to helping the people of our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ladies’ Day at Devon on May 29 is another annual special event. It is a time-honored tradition dating back to the early 1900s. The competition in the ring features the elegant Ladies’ Side saddle, while the Country Fair welcomes guests to participate in the day with a spectacular Hat Contest and Reception and the Ladies’ Day Luncheon.
Another popular event is the Itty Bitty Tea Party, scheduled for Sunday, May 26, 2024. With only three seatings in 2024, the classic Children’s Afternoon Tea Party in the Devon Club on the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Grounds has limited seating, so reservations are required. Children 12 and under will experience an afternoon of fun as they sip on refreshments, enjoy tea party treats, and participate in a special craft.
Last year’s Devon Horse Show and Country Fair brought 100,000 visitors to the grounds.
Since 1919, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair has donated over $18 million to Bryn Mawr Hospital. In November of 2023, $300,000 was donated to the hospital.
The $300,000 marks the 2nd installment made by the horse show towards a $2 million commitment supporting Main Line Health and Bryn Mawr Hospital’s expanded and upgraded Behavioral Health Unit.
