The London International Horse Show (Olympia) is one of the world’s most prestigious and historic indoor equestrian events, delivering elite sport, tradition, and festive atmosphere at the heart of London. Held annually during Christmas week, the show brings together the very best of international show jumping, dressage, and driving inside the iconic Olympia London arena.
Widely regarded as the anchor of the European indoor equestrian season, Olympia is more than a competition—it is a celebration of world-class horsemanship, British heritage, and holiday spectacle. For riders, fans, and families alike, it represents the grand finale of the year’s top-level indoor sport.
London International Horse Show (Olympia) Overview
Dates: Continues through December 28
Location: Olympia London, London, England
Duration: Multi-day international indoor horse show
Audience: Professional riders, international competitors, families, and equestrian fans of all ages
The London International Horse Show features standalone championship competitions across multiple disciplines, allowing athletes to compete at the highest level while delivering an unforgettable spectator experience during the holiday season.
About the London International Horse Show
The London International Horse Show is designed to showcase elite performance sport in a compact, high-pressure indoor environment. The intimate arena rewards precision, harmony, and athleticism, making every round and test a true test of skill.
For generations, Olympia has helped define careers, crown champions, and introduce new audiences to equestrian sport. Its blend of tradition, innovation, and accessibility has made it one of the most respected stages in global equestrian competition.
London International Horse Show Competition Format
Disciplines Featured:
- Show Jumping (FEI World Cup™ Qualifiers)
- Dressage (FEI Dressage World Cup™ Freestyle)
- Driving (Elite indoor driving competitions)
Typical Schedule:
- Midweek: Opening classes, qualifiers, and preliminary rounds
- Prime Evenings: Feature World Cup competitions and championship finals
- Final Days: Major titles, crowd-favorite driving events, and closing ceremonies
Each discipline operates at the highest international standard, attracting Olympic medalists, World Champions, and emerging stars.
Signature London International Horse Show Events & Highlights
FEI World Cup™ Show Jumping
Olympia is a key stop on the World Cup circuit, where riders battle for valuable qualification points in a challenging indoor format that demands speed, accuracy, and nerve.
FEI Dressage World Cup™ Freestyle
The dressage freestyle at Olympia is among the most anticipated performances of the season, often featuring debut choreography, emotional music, and world-leading horse-and-rider partnerships.
International Driving Competitions
Indoor driving is a hallmark of Olympia, combining fast-paced action, technical obstacles, and thrilling atmosphere that consistently draws standing ovations from the crowd.
Spectator Experience at Olympia
Viewing Areas:
Grandstand seating with exceptional sightlines in an intimate indoor arena
Hospitality & Dining:
Premium hospitality packages, on-site dining, festive food vendors, and seasonal treats
Atmosphere:
Elegant, electric, and distinctly festive, blending elite sport with Christmas tradition
Activities:
Shopping village, equestrian brand showcases, live entertainment, and family-friendly attractions
Attending Olympia offers a complete holiday experience—sport, celebration, and culture under one roof.
London International Horse Show Entry & Participation
Who Can Compete:
- International professional riders
- World Cup-qualified athletes
- Elite driving teams and dressage combinations
Entry Process:
Entries are managed through official FEI and event-specific qualification systems, with selection based on ranking, points, and invitations.
Competitor Tips:
- Prepare for a compact arena with technical lines
- Focus on precision and rhythm over raw power
- Plan logistics early due to peak holiday demand in London
Olympia is often used as a proving ground for World Cup Finals, championship teams, and future Olympic contenders.
Why You Should Attend the London International Horse Show?
- World-Class Indoor Sport: Watch the best riders and horses in the world compete up close
- Historic Venue: One of the most iconic arenas in equestrian history
- Holiday Tradition: A signature Christmas-week event in London
- Family-Friendly: Accessible, exciting, and welcoming for all ages
- Unmatched Atmosphere: High drama, elegance, and festive energy
For equestrian fans across the globe, the London International Horse Show (Olympia) stands as a timeless symbol of excellence—where sport, tradition, and celebration meet to close the year in unforgettable style.
Event Organizer
Organizer: London International Horse Show Ltd
Experience: Hosts one of the world’s leading indoor equestrian events, featuring FEI World Cup competitions across show jumping, dressage, and driving, and continuing a legacy that spans more than a century.
