The annual RDS Horse Show is renowned for being an action-packed event for all the family, and this year is no different. There’s more fun than ever for attendees to enjoy, especially the little ones. Located on the church grounds behind the grandstand, the family area is a dynamic hub of activity, guaranteed to captivate children of all ages with its mix of experiences.
The Mini Defender Driving Experience is sure to be a big hit with thrill-seeking youngsters. Other highlights include circus-inspired capers, such as face painting and balloon modelling, along with opportunities for animal lovers to learn more about horses. Meanwhile, bookworms can even borrow their favourite titles from the on-site library.
When it’s time to refuel, visitors, young and old, can feast on a variety of delicious food in the trucks and stands. Whether it’s burgers, ice cream, or the always popular churros – the uniquely shaped fried dough from the Iberian Peninsula – there’s something to appeal to every taste.
Thrill-seeking activities
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Riding horseback isn’t the only way of travelling across the RDS in August. Children with a need for speed can hop into the hugely popular mini Defenders and take control of the driving seat. The driving route is specifically designed for these adorable 4x4s, while the vehicles’ high-tech features – including a steering wheel, starter key, direction switch and lights – are just like the real thing. This is a safe and enjoyable experience for little motorists.
The climbing wall is sure to be another popular attraction this year, which allows kids to feel like they’re scaling a mountain. Alongside improving their balance, fitness and confidence, this thrilling, gravity-defying activity will leave children feeling on a high.
Circus-inspired capers
Children and adults alike will be amazed by the skills of the circus-inspired entertainers, who will be on hand to showcase their talents, including juggling, stilt walking and magic tricks. Horses will be jumping over hurdles and fences in the main arena, but in the family area, you might see rabbits jumping out of hats.
Few activities excite children more than balloon modelling. They will marvel at the artists twisting, bending and sculpting balloons into various shapes and creations. What will the impressive results resemble? There’s guaranteed to be a horse or two.
Don’t be surprised if you spot miniature superheroes or life-size butterflies flying about the grounds of the RDS this August. Talented, professional face painters are on hand to transform youngsters into their favourite characters or creatures. From full-face designs to cheek art, this creative activity will keep visitors thrilled all day.
The horse whisperer
An unmissable show that will enthrall and delight both children and adults alike is Santi Serra. The Spanish horseman will be performing in the Main Arena on each day of the show. His demonstrations promise to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing the incredible bond he has with his animals and his mastery of dressage. This year Serra’s performances will feature a spectacular display featuring an eagle and four horses, which he commandswithout the use of saddles, bridles or any tack, showcasing his unique skill and special bond with the animals. Show director Fiona Sheridan says,“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Santi Serra back to the RDS Dublin Horse Show for a third time. His horsemanshipskills and passion for his animals are truly inspiring. His performances never fail to captivate our audiences.”
Something for the toddlers
In the family area, there is something for children of all ages, including a toddler soft play area – the perfect activity to ensure smiles from the little ones. This colourful area features padded mat bases, foam blocks and slides.
Every day is a learning day
The family area prides itself on combining fun and learning by highlighting its Positive Strides initiative – a celebration of the positive impact that equestrianism has on society. This initiative is, once again, a collaboration with the Bray-based not-for-profit equine organisation Festina Lente. Members will be on hand to showcase the life-changing benefits of equine therapy andvisitors will have the opportunity to meet four of Festina Lente’s beloved miniature ponies, who play an integral role in outreach and therapeutic work with children and adults of all abilities.
The Library in the Community admirably breaks down barriers by creating libraries beyond traditional walls. The magical van not only provides access to a vast collection of books, but also offers a range of services, including library card sign-ups, story times and crafts. This in-demand service is an integral part of a dynamic, responsive and inclusive public library service.
There will also be a pop-up Gaeltacht, showcasing the rich heritage of the Irish language, with an immersive experience. It’s the perfect way to speak and listen to Irish in a convivial, low-pressure environment. Words spoken in the pop-up Gaeltacht might include capall – horse; comórtas – competition; spraoi – fun.
Food and drink
Between playing, laughing, and speaking cúpla focal - a few words (in Irish), families can catch their breath in the picnic area and recharge with the delicious food on offer. Alongside the markets and a wide variety of food trucks scattered throughout the grounds is the ever-popular swing grill and churros stand. Elsewhere, there are hamburgers, ice cream and sweets to devour.
Best dressed
For many, the best dressed competition is the highlight of the annual Dublin Horse Show. This year, the event takes place on Thursday, August 7th, on the band lawn and is sponsored by Poretti, the exclusive Italian beer.
Emerging triumphant will be no easy feat, however, given the extraordinary ensembles created in previous pageantries. This year, expectations are higher than ever.
The winner of Poretti Best Dressed will strut home with a €10,000 cash prize, whilst the runner up will scoop two nights B&B at the 5-star Morrison Dublin, Curio Collection by Hilton, plus two nights B&B at The Trafalgar St James London, Curio Collection by Hilton, in London along with a €100 travel voucher.
Meanwhile, the winner of the best hat design will receive a €2,000 voucher for Ireland’s Blue Book, the carefully curated collection of the island’s unique and historic hotels, guest houses and restaurants.
There will also be exciting prizes for winners of the other categories – The Irish Heritage & Sustainability Style Award sponsored by Jack Murphy, and Best Duo, sponsored by Cashel Palace.
New Anglesea stand: Regenerating a legacy
The regeneration of the RDS Main Arena is well under way, marking a bold step forward in the ongoing evolution of the iconic 43-acre campus in Ballsbridge. At the heart of this transformative €52 million project is the construction of a brand-new Anglesea Stand – a modern, sustainable facility that will enhance the experience for every visitor, whether attending the Dublin Horse Show, Leinster Rugby fixtures or world-class concerts.
This big redevelopment, which began in 2024, involves the demolition of the former Anglesea Stand and Terrace, as well as the revitalisation of the grandstand, where new dressingrooms and a player’s tunnel are being introduced. When completed in August 2026, the new 6,775-capacity Anglesea Stand will form part of a 20,600-seat arena.
The regenerationof the arena is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about reimagining what theRDScan offer future generations. As the first phase of a wide development programme, the project reflects a broader mission to support positive change in Irish society. By creating a space that upholds RDS’s core values –Purpose First, Passion, Excellence, Collaboration and Integrity – the redevelopment affirms its commitment to delivering a world-class venue that meets the evolving needs of sport, culture and community life in Ireland.
In the meantime, a temporary three-sided arena will host the 2025 Dublin Horse Show.
“As the home of the Dublin Horse Show and Leinster Rugby, this is an exciting time for the RDS,” said RDS Chief Executive Liam Kavanagh. “We are deeply grateful for the government’s support through the Large-Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF), and we look forward to welcoming visitors back to a reimagined arena in summer 2026.”
The grand unveiling of the new Anglesea Stand is scheduled to coincide with the 2026 Dublin Horse Show – a fitting stage for the 100th anniversary celebration of the iconic Aga Khan Trophy. This historic milestone, combined with the opening of the regenerated Main Arena, marks the beginning of a bold new era for the RDS and one of Ireland’s most treasured events.
