In 1896, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair in Devon, Pa., began as a one-day show. Now, 129 years later, it has become the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed show in North America. This historic event, which takes place May 21-June 1, 2025, draws equestrians from across the country and local fans alike to enjoy all that it has to offer, from riveting competition to entertaining exhibitions. Designated as a US Equestrian Heritage Competition, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is a timeless tradition fans won’t want to miss!  

 

1. The Devon Horse Show is celebrating its 129th anniversary 

The first edition of Devon took place in 1896 as railroad lines developed the “Main Line” area in the western suburbs of Philadelphia and surrounding farmland. Consisting of approximately 30 classes with up to 10 entries each, the show began with humble beginnings. Before long, it expanded to meet an overwhelming demand, and by 1914, Devon had become the largest outdoor horse show in the U.S.  

Just five years later in 1919, the Devon Horse Show decided a Country Fair should be added in addition to the horse show. It was then that Bryn Mawr Hospital was selected as the show’s official charity, and traditions we still see today began to form. By its 20th anniversary, Devon Horse Show and Country Fair had built a reputation nationwide, with competitors traveling from as far as California. Today, Devon is internationally recognized as a premier equestrian event but continues to stay true to its Main Line roots.  

 

2. The chance to enjoy many breeds and disciplines 

Devon now offers a wide variety of classes for breeds and disciplines. Classes feature American Saddlebreds, carriage pleasure driving, English pleasure, eventing, Friesians, Hackneys, hunters, hunter seat equitation, jumping, Roadsters, saddle seat equitation, Western, and more. With so many options and chances to see enthralling competition, fans can experience many different aspects of equestrian sport all in one place. 

If you need to brush up on your breeds and disciplines knowledge before the show begins on May 21, look no further than US Equestrian’s Learn webpage. Visit the newly updated Breeds and Disciplines 101 page to see the 11 breeds and 18 disciplines affiliated with US Equestrian, or the Learning Center to watch educational videos such as The Friesian Horse, The Morgan Horse, or the general Breeds & Disciplines Overview.  

3. Catch wall-to-wall coverage of the Devon Horse Show on the USEF Network 

The USEF Network powered by ClipMyHorse.TV will be live streaming the horse show exclusively from start to finish, so you don’t have to miss a second of the action. With a free USEF Fan account, spectators can tune into the livestream at any time and watch the action free of charge. If you want to rewatch your favorite class, horse and rider combination, or watch on-demand content, sign up for an annual USEF Subscriber membership. With a Subscriber membership, members gain access to mental health first aid, a quarterly copy of US Equestrian magazine mailed directly to your door, plus health and insurance benefits.  

This year, the iconic FEI Sapphire Grand Prix will also be live on ESPN3 on Thursday, May 29 at 7:30 p.m. ET and will be available on demand on the Watch ESPN platform for 30 days. On Saturday, June 8, you can tune in to the two-hour edited show on ESPNews at 11 a.m. ET.  

 

4. Special events and exhibitions provide fun for all ages 

The special events and exhibitions at Devon are exciting highlights that offer enjoyment beyond the competition, such as the Dog Show at the Horse Show, that features a selfie station, Simon Says for people and pets, and a costume parade. Another fan favorite is the Carriage Pleasure Drive, a longstanding event at Devon where drivers wind their way through local neighborhoods showing off their carriages for captivated spectators.  

Celebrating their 91st Anniversary, the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales are scheduled to appear at Devon this year, showcasing their high stepping talents and iconic red wagon. As one of the most recognizable corporate symbols in the world, fans won’t want to miss this special exhibition. From gentle giants to pint-sized ponies, the WIHS (Washington International Horse Show) Shetland Pony Steeplechase brings a smile to fans’ faces as youth riders race on their Shetland Ponies in the Championship Series in the Dixon Oval.  

 

5. Behind-the-scenes coverage

The US Equestrian social media accounts will provide plenty of additional content from Devon. Be sure to check out the USEF Network Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts as well as the US Equestrian Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter accounts for exciting Devon content like photo galleries, videos, and clipped rides.