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🎡 FairReturns August

Dublin Horse Show

Annual, typically mid-August

Season: August – August

RDS Simmonscourt

About

The Dublin Horse Show is one of Ireland's premier equestrian events, combining world-class showjumping with a vibrant festival atmosphere that captivates children and adults alike. Held annually at the RDS in Ballsbridge each August, this five-day spectacle offers families the chance to get up close with magnificent horses, watch thrilling competitions, and explore countless shopping and food stalls. It's a uniquely Irish experience that blends sporting excellence with family-friendly entertainment in the heart of Dublin.

What to Expect

Families can expect a bustling outdoor event with international showjumping competitions, including the famous Aga Khan Trophy, alongside pony displays, breed demonstrations, and a dedicated family zone. The atmosphere is lively yet accessible, with children able to watch horses from excellent viewing areas around the jumping arenas. Beyond the equestrian action, there are shopping villages featuring country clothing and crafts, food markets, artisan stalls, and often dedicated children's entertainment areas with face painting and activities. The grounds are extensive, so expect plenty of walking between arenas, stalls, and refreshment areas.

Highlights for Kids

  • Watching powerful horses soar over enormous jumps in the international Grand Prix competitions
  • Visiting the horse stabling areas to see the animals up close and watch them being groomed
  • The Parade of Champions where winning horses and riders perform a victory lap
  • Exploring the numerous food and craft stalls throughout the showgrounds
  • Special pony displays and demonstrations that showcase different breeds and riding styles

Pro Tips for Families

  1. Book tickets online in advance as daily attendance can exceed 20,000 people; weekday visits are typically less crowded than the weekend finals
  2. Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and rain gear—Dublin weather is unpredictable and much of the viewing is outdoors with limited covered seating
  3. Arrive early to explore the stabling areas where children can safely watch horses being groomed and prepared—it's a magical behind-the-scenes experience
  4. Download the event app or grab a program at the gate to plan your day around specific competitions and activities; the Pony Club displays and parade of champions are particularly engaging for children

Best Time to Visit

For families with younger children, weekday mornings (Thursday or Friday) offer a more relaxed atmosphere with smaller crowds and easier navigation. Arriving when gates open around 8:00-9:00 AM allows you to explore the stabling areas and shopping villages before the main jumping competitions begin around 10:30 AM. If you want the full spectacle including the famous Nations Cup competition, Friday afternoon is ideal. Weekend days feature the most prestigious showjumping but draw the largest crowds, making them better suited for older children who won't tire as easily.

Food & Drinks

The Dublin Horse Show offers extensive food options ranging from sit-down restaurants to casual food trucks and stalls throughout the grounds. Families will find kid-friendly staples like burgers, chips, pizza, and ice cream, alongside Irish specialties and international cuisine. There are multiple coffee shops and bars for adults. While prices are elevated (expect €8-15 per main), the quality is generally good. Picnics are allowed in designated areas, which can be a budget-friendly option for families. Bring reusable water bottles as refill stations are available, and be prepared for queues at peak lunch hours (12:30-2:00 PM).

Parking & Access

The RDS is easily accessible from central Dublin via DART (suburban rail) to Sandymount Station (10-minute walk) or various Dublin Bus routes to Ballsbridge. For international visitors, it's about 25-30 minutes from Dublin Airport by taxi (€30-40). On-site parking is available but expensive (€20-30) and fills quickly, so arriving early is essential if driving. The grounds are stroller-accessible with paved pathways, though the sheer size means you'll be doing considerable walking. Stroller parking areas are available near main arenas. For families staying in central Dublin, public transport or taxi is recommended as parking can be challenging and the RDS is only 4km from the city center.