The Paris-Vincennes Hippodrome is set to transform into a vibrant hub of equestrian activity on Saturday, September 12, 2026, for the annual Horse Festival. This free event promises a day of discovery, entertainment, and immersion into the fascinating world of horses, catering to visitors of all ages.
What to Expect at the Horse Festival?
Designed for both young and old, the Horse Festival will offer a wide array of free, fun, and immersive activities. These experiences aim to blend education, spectacle, and emotion, providing an accessible and friendly way to celebrate horses in all their diversity.
Key Highlights and Activities:
- Thrilling Trotting Races: The day will feature nine high-level trotting races starting at 1 PM, including the Critériums for 3, 4, and 5-year-olds, showcasing the best trotters and drivers. Trophy presentations and a performance by the Garde Républicaine interpreting the Marseillaise on the track will punctuate the races.
- Horse and Pony Village: Explore a diverse range of equine breeds, from miniature horses to majestic Shires, Shetland ponies, Selle Français, Purebred Spanish horses, Friesians, and Hanoverians. This immersive experience offers a close-up look at horses, designed to spark curiosity in the entire family.
- Free Animations for All: Enjoy pony baptisms, a wooden horse carousel, photo sessions with Troty, the interactive Derby game, a DJ set, the Unicorn School by Gulli, guided stable tours, a bus tour following the race for an up-close experience, and a virtual reality experience. A new addition this year is the two-seater Sulky ride, allowing participants to feel the thrill of a driver alongside a retired trotter.
- Post-Career Support for Trotters: The festival will highlight the support provided to trotters after their racing careers. Through partnerships with SETF, the French Federation for Reconversion, and Passerelle, visitors can learn about the various retraining options available for these horses. The ‘Atelier des Petits Trotteurs’ and the educational stand ‘Choose Trotteur Français’ will offer games, workshops, and discussions to better understand the journey of the French Trotter, from birth to its second life.
Practical Information for Your Visit
To ensure a pleasant experience, here are the essential details for attending the Horse Festival:
Location:
Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes, 75012 Paris
Date and Time:
Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 12 PM to 6 PM
Admission:
Free
Food and Drink:
A diverse range of dining options will be available, including food trucks, sweet stands, and bars, creating a convivial atmosphere for a gourmet break. Guests can also reserve a table at the panoramic restaurant for an unparalleled view of the track and races.
How to Get There:
The Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes is easily accessible by public transport. Specific routes and nearest stations can be found on the official website.
Registration and Ticketing:
While admission is free, it is advisable to check the official website for any potential registration requirements or special event bookings.
Why Attend the Horse Festival?
This event is a unique opportunity to connect with the equestrian world, learn about different horse breeds, witness exciting races, and participate in a variety of engaging activities. It’s an ideal outing for families, horse enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun and educational day in Paris.
Contact and Further Information:
- Website: www.vincennes-hippodrome.com/fr/evenements/
- Facebook: Check their official Facebook page for updates.
- Instagram: Follow their Instagram for event highlights.
Don’t miss this exceptional day dedicated to horses at the Paris-Vincennes Hippodrome!
Source: https://www.jds.fr/paris/manifestations/fetes/fete-du-cheval-a-l-hippodrome-paris-vincennes-1700678_A
