23 April,2026 05:10 PM IST | Philadelphia (USA) | mid-day online correspondent
The Radnor Hunt Races continue the spring tradition of steeple chasing. Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement
The countryside of Philadelphia's scenic landscape has long been a traveller's top choice for weekend travel plans due to its convenient location just a short drive away from the city of Philadelphia.
Interestingly, the rolling hills also play host to world-class equestrian activities, a long-standing tradition that blends classic races with local seasonal flavours. Spring ushers in the ideal weather for horse racing events in the countryside of Philadelphia, culminating in incredible weekends of tailgating, community, and excitement.
The Willowdale Steeplechase has been a spectacular horse racing tradition in the Countryside of Philadelphia for 33 years, where families and friends gather to celebrate a day of country life and witness equestrian talent with some of the nation's finest steeplechase jockeys and horses. Willowdale is located just minutes from Longwood Gardens, where the spring blooms are also a must-see for their vibrant colours.
The following weekend, the Radnor Hunt Races continue the spring tradition of steeple chasing in the Countryside of Philadelphia for the 94th year. A highlight of Radnor is the parade of carriages. After the first race, carriage owners turn out in their finest attire, driving these distinctive vehicles to the delight of the crowd. Enjoy a tailgate picnic with friends and family while helping to win the race for open space. All proceeds from the Radnor Hunt Races benefit the land and water preservation programs of the Brandywine Conservancy in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania.
It is one of the nation's leading equestrian events that begins on the Thursday of Memorial Day weekend, May 20 and runs through May 31 in 2026. Devon is the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in the country. While drawing competitors from around the world, Devon epitomises the local traditions and lifestyles of the famed Main Line.
As spring gives way to summer, Polo takes the lead. Nestled in the heart of the area is the 300-acre Brandywine Polo Club (BPC), one of the oldest polo organisations on the East Coast. This summer, come out for Saturday Starlight Polo on select dates from June through September 2026, where you can experience exciting polo with music, food trucks and a pop-up bar.
Ludwig's Corner Horse Show and Country Fair is back for its 82nd year, offering fun experiences for the entire family. Held on the Saturday, Sunday and Monday of Labor Day Weekend, the show has been a Labor Day tradition for generations of families. In addition to the rider competition in three rings, there will be Horse Drawn Carriage demonstrations, food, crafts, entertainment and a variety of vendors. Later in September, Plantation Field International Horse Trials take place, where top event horses and riders throughout the country compete in beautiful Unionville. In addition to the competition, guests enjoy a robust vendor village and a terrific tailgating atmosphere along the country course.
Catch the Countryside of Philadelphia in full equestrian action in September at the Plantation Field International Horse Trials & Country Fair to watch exciting national and international equestrian events, as well as be a part of an unparalleled Country Fair.
Another spectacular event in September is Dressage At Devon, where horses take on a new transition with choreographed routines and a ballet-like display blending power and elegance.
The 91st Annual Pennsylvania Hunt Cup is set to return in November with its intense Timber steeplechase race covering a distance of four miles and 18 fences, over fair hunting country. A test for both horse and rider, it is one of just three 4-mile steeplechase races sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association.
More Equestrian action in the countryside of Philadelphia
In addition to taking part in a race, there are countless other ways for you to learn and participate in the region's horse heritage, from Friday Night Polo matches at Brandywine Polo Club to Wednesday's Race Nights at The Whip Tavern, there is something for everyone!
