EQUESTRIAN & SPORTING LIFE

Virginia Horse Country & Equestrian Events

Welcome to Virginia’s Horse Country, where scenic horse trails, elite competitions and thrilling races have established Virginia as one of the best equine activity and event destinations. Every year, nearly a million horse lovers visit Virginia to enjoy and participate in over 1,200 Virginia Horse Country steeplechases, sporting life art exhibits, polo matches, hunt events, horse shows, stable tours and more in Virginia’s thriving equestrian scene. World-class performances combined with a rich hunt country culture and heritage make for memorable outings and experiences in iconic Virginia Horse Country. Visit Middleburg to stay at a luxury Inn inspired by Virginia Hunt Country, enjoy an exhibit at the National Museum of Sporting Life or browse charming boutiques that reflect equestrian style. Virginia Wine & Country is often participating as a sponsor or maybe even a Tailgate or Hat Contest Judge at horse races including the Virginia Gold Cup, the Foxfield Races and the Montpelier Hunt Races.

Equestrian Home & Lifestyle

The beautiful homes of Virginia Horse Country exude welcoming charm in their architecture and beautiful interiors designed for the elegant country life. From formal equestrian estates with expansive horse pastures and riding rings to farmhouses with porches designed for lingering over a sunset or a network of horseback riding trails, you’ll find inspiration in these stories. Explore country gardens with lovely features from luxury stables and barns to garden sheds and exquisite greenhouses and learn more about equestrian artists in Virginia, custom saddle makers, olympic equestrians and more.

Plan the Wedding of Your Dreams

Embark on the journey to planning an elegant wine country wedding, one that includes a beautiful venue, a farm-to-table rehearsal dinner, welcome gifts, wedding flowers, a reception to remember and more. Be inspired by real weddings and the latest trends in our Virginia Wine & Country Weddings magazine and on our weddings website. You’ll find a beautiful collection of inspiring real weddings hosted at gorgeous wineries in Virginia, country estates, churches and more as well as ideas for including fur friends, be they your dogs or a favorite horse or pony. 

Entertaining in Equestrian Style

Equestrian decor and an exquisite al fresco setting can create magical memories for  guests. Some of the most fabulous occasions in Virginia are annual steeplechases and horse shows where fans gather, much like at a family reunion, to share a fabulous tailgate meal, place friendly bets and cheer on their favorite horse in the race. Dress up in equestrian style befitting Virginia hunt and hose country and prepare to serve drinks in stirrup cups, accessorize with horse antiques and add elegance with unexpected touches of luxury like formal china plates and a gleaming silver cooler with Virginia sparkling wine on ice.