Exploring the Upperville Horse Show
I’ve always been intrigued by the world of equestrian sports. Living in such close proximity to Upperville, home to one of the oldest horse shows in the United States, I’ve often heard tales of its grandeur and tradition. It wasn’t until this year that I finally decided to experience the Upperville Horse Show for myself, along with a friend, a former horse owner, who longs to have another horse of her own.
Driving into Upperville, the quaint charm of the town immediately captivated me. The streets adorned with historic buildings and lush greenery set the perfect backdrop for this esteemed event. Arriving at the showgrounds, I was greeted by a bustling atmosphere of food stands, local arts and crafts, and equestrian wares for sale, from saddlery and tack to horse show staples like big hats adorned with flowers and ribbons for women.
As we navigated our way through the various arenas and exhibition areas, everywhere we turned, there was something new to see – from elegant show jumping competitions to graceful dressage performances. The level of skill and dedication displayed by the riders and their magnificent horses was thrilling and captivating. Thanks to event sponsors Farm Credit Bank, who had a VIP box alongside the arena but no one to fill their seats, my friend and I had front row seats for the main event. We also stumbled into a lovely tent with a complementary buffet of gourmet foods and sweet tea before we realized we had accidentally crashed the Exhibitor’s Reception.
But perhaps the most memorable aspect of the Upperville Horse Show was the sense of community that permeated the event. From seasoned competitors to casual spectators like myself, everyone seemed united by a shared love for horses and equestrian sports.
As the day drew to a close and the sun began to set, I found myself reluctant to leave. The Upperville Horse offered a glimpse into a world rich in history, tradition, and passion. It was an experience that left me inspired and eager to come back again – and my friend was now more determined than ever to build a barn for a horse in her near future.
