Ocala/Marion County: The Ultimate Equestrian Experience
Discover where thoroughbred horses are born, trained and turned into champions.
Ocala International Horse Show
Experience a premier equestrian event in Ocala.
Watch world-class equestrians compete at the award-winning Ocala International Horse Show, returning for its 5th annual event at World Equestrian Center. Named the 2022–2024 People’s Choice Awards Horse Show of the Year, this showcase brings together top riders and stunning horses for five days of excitement and skill. Enjoy free competitions, ringside dining, shopping, and family-friendly fun all week long.
Event Details
- Dates - Tuesday-Saturday, October 21-25, 2025
- Location - World Equestrian Center (1750 NW 80th Ave, Ocala)
- Admission - FREE
- Accessibility - Handicap parking is available throughout the facility. Guests may wish to bring wheelchairs, as the venue is expansive. Daily golf cart rentals are also available.
Ocala International Horse Show Schedule
The show brings together a variety of breeds, including American Saddlebreds, Morgan Horses, Hackney Ponies, Standardbreds, and Dutch Harness Horses, creating a diverse competition lineup. Highlights include:
- Saddle Seat - A style often showcased with breeds like Saddlebreds and Morgans. Horses are judged by their high-stepping gait with an emphasis on high action, animation, and elegant movement.
- Hunt Seat - Judged on the horse’s style, movement, and way of going over fences with a focus on elegance more than speed.
- Western Pleasure - Horses are judged on their responsiveness, style, and manners at a slow pace.
- Driving - Horses pull carriages, either in breed-specific presentations or formal combined driving competitions.
- Academy - Designed for riding school students, often using lesson horses with an emphasis is on learning and confidence rather than high-level show polish.
- Opportunity - Entry-level divisions that give newer riders a chance to compete without extra qualifications.
For the full schedule, please visit the official event website.
More Show Experiences
Vendor Village
Stroll through a lively marketplace filled with everything from performance tack and elegant riding apparel to handcrafted hats, fine accessories, and unique finds. Whether you’re a rider looking for gear or a spectator browsing for souvenirs, the variety of vendors makes this a can’t-miss part of the show.
Ringside Seating & Dinner Buffet
Reserve a ringside table to enjoy premium seating throughout the competition, keeping you close to the action all day long. For those who’d like to add a dining experience, tickets are available separately for the nightly dinner buffet, which includes a full spread along with a bar featuring beer, wine, and cocktails.
Amenities at WEC
World Equestrian Center itself is a destination worth exploring. Beyond the show, indulge in a meal at signature restaurants like Stirrups or relax with a casual drink at Yellow Pony Pub & Garden. Between competitions, browse upscale boutiques offering equestrian gear, designer clothing, home décor, and even toys for little ones.
Tip - Before you arrive, reserve a golf cart for a fun and easy way to navigate World Equestrian Center grounds.
Plan Your Visit
Turn the Ocala International Horse Show into a full getaway. Stay steps away from the arena at World Equestrian Center, where luxury accommodations keep you close to the action, or choose from a variety of nearby hotels that fit every style of traveler. After a day at the show, explore Ocala’s scenic outdoor spaces, vibrant dining scene, and unique local attractions.
