Internationally Renowned Lake Placid, NY Horse Shows

Olympic-level action comes to Lake Placid! Come experience two of the nation's most prominent equestrian events and watch as world-class riders and horses vie for more than $550,000 in prize money and awards in championship Hunter and Jumper competitions. As a spectator sport, it doesn't get much more exciting than show jumping, at the event Elite Equestrian Magazine calls "one of the premier stops on the nation's horse show circuit."

Dates

• Lake Placid Horse Show - June 25-June 30

• I Love New York Horse Show - July 2-7

The action begins at 8 a.m. each show day, with classes running simultaneously in five separate rings until approximately 5 p.m. 

Jumping events

Show jumping or 'stadium jumping' is an English riding event. It is a relatively new sport, originating sometime in the mid-18th century. The Lake Placid Horse Shows feature hunter jumper and show jumping in both adult and junior divisions. Show jumping is all about getting through the course in the fastest time with the fewest faults (knockdowns, refusing a jump, going off course), while hunter jumping (no actual hunting invovled) is judged based on a combination of factors, including skill and riding style.

Shop and dine

A day at the horse show is a full experience: walking the paddock, relaxing in the stands, as well as dining and shopping. Treat yourself to a quick snack or a more robust lunch, and browse the wide array of vendors. You'll find everything from chic hats and clothing to high-end jewelry, equestrian-themed antiques, art, and much more.

About the horse shows

The Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows bring nearly 1,000 horses to Lake Placid for three weeks at the end of June each year. Among competitors, retailers, and spectators, Lake Placid is a favorite on the show jumping circuit, for its perfect blend of unforgettable scenery, classic Lake Placid hospitality, and summer weather.

Competitors come from around the world to compete in both shows and the roster has included both Olympic veterans and hopefuls, including 5-time Olympian (and four-time medalist) McLain Ward, as well as newer stars such as Jessica Springsteen and Georgina Bloomberg, with Bloomberg calling Lake Placid one of her favorite events.

Around Lake Placid

Even with busy days at the show grounds, visitors will still have plenty of time to explore the perfectly welcoming and adventurous village of Lake Placid and the surrounding area. The Olympic Jumping Complex, with its towering ski jumps in view from the show, is an exciting destination, while the 4th of July holiday brings extra events and entertainment. Relax and enjoy the "Stars & Stripes" lakeside concert, free fireworks show, or the Star-Spangled Ski Jump.

Visit the Lake Placid Horse Show Association for more information and details.