The Main Line is synonymous with elegance, tradition and a refined appreciation for the equestrian lifestyle. Each spring, this region comes alive with a fantastic array of horse-related events, offering steeplechase races, world-class show jumping and social gatherings steeped in history. From the rolling fields of Radnor Hunt to the storied grounds of the Devon Horse Show, the Main Line (and beyond) equestrian season is a perfect blend of sporting excellence and high society revelry. And whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or simply looking for an unforgettable day out, these events promise excitement, pageantry and whole lot of Champagne.
The Devon Horse Show features a mix of hunter, jumper and equitation competitions, drawing Olympic-level equestrians and rising stars.
CHESHIRE POINT-TO-POINT: MARCH 30
One of the earliest heralds of spring, the Cheshire Point-to-Point (cheshirepointtopoint.com) is a quintessential tradition. Held in Unionville, this race is a thrilling intro to the steeplechase season, featuring fast-paced timber races against the picturesque backdrop of Chester County’s rolling countryside. The event exudes an air of relaxed sophistication, where guests tailgate in style, don their finest equestrian-inspired fashion and soak in the spectacle of high-stakes horsemanship.
BRANDYWINE HILLS POINT-TO-POINT: APRIL 6
For those who appreciate both the thrill of the race and the beauty of preserved open spaces, the Brandywine Hills Point-to-Point (brandywineredclay.org) is not to be missed. Held in West Chester, this event raises funds for the Brandywine Conservancy’s mission to protect land and waterways. Expect an afternoon of exhilarating competition, charming pony races and elegant picnicking setups that rival the beauty of the races themselves. It’s an event where tradition meets contemporary celebration, offering something for both seasoned racegoers and those new to the sport.
WINTERTHUR POINT-TO-POINT: MAY 4
Few events capture the essence of equestrian grandeur quite like the Winterthur Point-to-Point (winterthur.org) in Wilmington, Delaware. Set against the lush gardens and stately elegance of the Winterthur Museum, this event is as much a social spectacle as it is a sporting event. Attendees arrive in their finest spring attire, complete with wide-brimmed hats and impeccably tailored ensembles, to enjoy a day of top-tier steeplechase racing. Lavish tailgates, Champagne flutes in hand and a palpable sense of festivity make Winterthur a highlight of the season.
Radnor Hunt, founded in 1883, is the oldest continuously active foxhunting club in the U.S.
RADNOR HUNT RACES: MAY 17
A crown jewel of the Main Line’s equestrian calendar, the Radnor Hunt Races (radnorhuntraces.org) offer a thrilling combination of speed, skill and sophisticated revelry. Held at the historic Radnor Hunt Club in Malvern, this steeplechase event is more than just a day at the races—it’s a social institution. The event raises critical funds for the Brandywine Conservancy’s open space and clean water programs, making it a rare blend of sport and philanthropy. Here, guests sip mint juleps, admire impeccably turned-out thoroughbreds and mingle under the grand white tents, all while taking in the high-adrenaline action on the track.
Radnor’s social atmosphere includes spectators dressed in classic race-day fashion.
DEVON HORSE SHOW & COUNTRY FAIR: MAY 21–JUNE 1
The Devon Horse Show & Country Fair (devonhorseshow.net) is the pinnacle of equestrian excellence, a place where history and competition collide in an unmatched spectacle. As the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States, Devon is an experience unlike any other. Riders from around the world converge on this storied venue to compete in elite show jumping, elegant dressage and nail-biting hunter rounds. But Devon is more than just a horse show—it’s an immersive cultural experience. The Country Fair offers a charming, old-world atmosphere with a lively midway, gourmet food stands and high-end shopping. Whether you’re cheering on a champion rider, indulging in Devon’s famous lemon sticks or simply enjoying the grandeur of the spectacle, this event is a must for anyone who appreciates the horsey things in life.
From the refined elegance of Winterthur to the high-energy stakes of Radnor, the Main Line’s equestrian season is a masterclass in style, sport and social prestige. These events not only celebrate the art of horsemanship but also offer a chance to indulge in timeless traditions and create unforgettable memories. If you’re a racing devotee, a social butterfly or simply someone in search of a magnificent day out, the Main Line’s spring equestrian calendar is your invitation to experience the thrill of the chase and the charm of tradition.
Photography by: PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE DEVON HORSE SHOW AND THE BRANDYWINE CONSERVANCY
