The global equestrian calendar for 2026 features an impressive lineup of world-class competitions across multiple disciplines. Equestrian enthusiasts can look forward to the return of the FEI World Equestrian Games to Aachen, Germany from August 11-23. This marks a significant homecoming to the venue of the 2006 Games, widely regarded as one of the best championships in the event’s history.
The 13-day competition will showcase dressage, eventing, show jumping, and other disciplines across multiple venues including the main stadium and cross-country course. The championships will determine FEI Team Medals after both days of the team competition, with the best combinations advancing to individual finals.
Another highlight of the 2026 schedule is the Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5* from April 23-26. This premier competition represents the highest level of equestrian eventing, featuring the classic triathlon format of dressage, cross-country, and show jumping.
The Kentucky Three-Day Event represents eventing at its finest—a true showcase of equestrian excellence across three demanding disciplines.
What makes this weekend truly exceptional is that it’s the only event outside a world championship to host CCI5*, CCI4*-S, and CSI5* competitions simultaneously. The Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S and Kentucky International CSI5* show jumping competition will run concurrently at the same venue. The Kentucky Three-Day Event is widely celebrated as the best weekend all year for equestrian sport enthusiasts.
Earlier in the year, Wellington, Florida will host a CSI5*/CSI2* competition from February 3-8. This early-season FEI event attracts top international show jumping competitors to its Florida venue, offering both five-star and two-star level competitions.
August brings multiple events to Woodside Horse Trials, including the Fall International Event featuring dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. The UK will also host the prestigious Badminton Horse Trials, which has become a highlight in the five-star eventing calendar. The venue will also host the West Palms Silicon Valley Equestrian H/J Festival across two consecutive weeks, providing opportunities for competitors at various ability levels.
For those interested in traditional shows, the Upperville Colt & Horse Show in Virginia presents a CSI4* level competition from June 3-7.
Throughout the year, national hunter/jumper festivals will take place across the country, with Traverse City Horse Shows running weekly competitions from June through September. Multiple spring national hunter derbies will offer substantial purses of $10,000 for both open and junior/amateur divisions, rounding out an exciting year of equestrian sport.
