The Hampton Classic Horse Show is one of the largest outdoor horse shows in the United States, a premier destination for horse people, and a much-anticipated stop on the summer tour for competitors. Now well into its fourth successful decade, The Hampton Classic Horse Show is in a class all its own, both in the minds of spectators and horse people alike.
When
It begins this Sunday, August 28th and will be taking place through September 4th. The Annual Hampton Classic is one of the best ways to end the summer! A good Southampton horse show with top riders from all over the country is a really fun event to go to with friends and family.
What it is
Elite riders from around the world compete for more than $800,000 in prize money. National champion hunter competitors, Olympic medalists, and scores of children and adult amateurs make up the field riding approximately 1,500 horses entered each year in 200+ separate competitions.
In addition to watching world class equestrian sport, spectators enjoy more than 80 onsite shops, a dozen International food options, daily activities in the kids’ area, and Monday’s annual Animal Adoption Day on August 29th, featuring rescued dogs, cats, and horses in search of a forever home.
The Competition
In 2009, the Hampton Classic became only the second horse show ever to receive the status of Heritage Competition by the United States Equestrian Federation. This prestigious status is reserved for competitions that have been in existence for at least 25 years and have provided for their communities as well as the horse community as a whole in an unprecedented fashion.
I can’t wait for the start of the classic this weekend, my daughters and I went for the first time last year and loved it! Gemma goes to horse camp each summer, so an equestrian competition is one of her favorite activities to watch! These riders and horses trained for so long for hours of competition and it’s really nice to see them do so well. The equestrian arts is something that doesn’t get enough attention riders of all ages can have an interest in it.
This Sunday
Opening this Grand Prix Sunday, on the beautiful grass of the Grand Prix Ring, you will find probably the tensest competition all week, the legendary Hampton Classic headline. Dozens upon dozens of ponies parade their riders, judged by Olympic Gold medalist Joe Fargis, while their proud parents and grandparents watch nervously from the V.I.P. tents.
The week culminates with the $410,000 Hampton Classic Grand Prix, one of the most coveted titles in the sport.
The Hampton Classic Horse Show is always a grand way to end the summer. Held in high regard by the horse community, famous for its Hamptons Celebrity sightings, and second to none in high end shopping boutiques, it earns its nickname The Classic.
WHERE: Bridgehampton, NY (off Montauk Highway, Route 27 at 240 Snake Hollow Road), 65-acre showgrounds.
Located near some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast, amidst the fashionable Hamptons summer scene.
For more things to do in the Hamptons, visit here!
16 thoughts on “The Annual Hampton Classic”
That looks like such an amazing time! I love anything to do with horses. I love that you can get up close and personal with some of them.
This looks like a blast. I’ve never heard of it but it sounds huge lasting so many days and having such big purses to the winners. Also, ponies and horses ❤️
That’s a beautiful event to enjoy with the family. That horse looks like a beauty.
This looks like such a fun event. Your matching outfits are adorable.
I love horses. I will enjoy this event for sure. I love all your dresses.
Thank you so much!!
This reminds me of Balmoral show – something which we frequently visit here in NI. It’s beautiful with horse shows, cattle and other livestock.
That sounds amazing!
Awesome! This annual event looks cool and exciting! All classic events are sure lots of fun to watch. Hope I can too, in the near future. Such a great shared, loved it!
It’s so fun!
Wow looks like a beautiful and fun event! Love the dresses!
Thank you!!
It looks fun and your outfits look amazing. I have not been to something like this before. So, I find it interesting and seems fun.
Looks like you had some fun and amazing bonding moments. Those horses are so beautiful.
This is such a fun event. I have never been around horses but would love to be a part of such an event.
Nnnniiiicccceeee…I would give anything to be at a horse-show! I am fascinated by them. The little ones clearly enjoyed themselves!