Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill: The Best Equestrian Eventing

Thousands of horse enthusiasts and spectators will descend on Cecil County, Maryland, in October to witness the graceful pageantry and fierce competition of the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill. This is one of only two 5 Star equestrian events in the United States (and seven world-wide) and attracts the best riders and horses from the international stage.

The Maryland 5 Star will be held October 13-16 at the newly constructed Fair Hill Event Zone in Elkton, just 30 minutes north of the Inn at the Canal. The prestigious 5 Star designation is the pinnacle of the sport of Eventing, best described as an equestrian triathlon. Riders and horses compete at the sport's highest level, testing their skills in dressage, cross country and show jumping.

The Fair Hill Event Zone is part of the Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, maintained by the state of Maryland. Known for its pristine terrain, woodlands and natural beauty, this 5,656-acre property once belonged to William du Pont, Jr., a prominent figure in the sport of Thoroughbred horse racing in the early 20th century. The fairgrounds at Fair Hill is the site of other large-scale events, including the Fair Hill Scottish Games in May and the Cecil County Fair in July.

The first two days of the Maryland 5 Star competition on Thursday and Friday will feature dressage tests completed in the main arena. The third day of competition on Saturday is the cross-country test, where riders jump up to 45 obstacles over almost 4 miles of varying terrain. The final day of competition on Sunday is show jumping, where riders jump over fragile obstacles in the main arena. In addition to the 5 Star competition, the four-day event also features a 3 Star competition and the USEA Young Event Horse East Coast Championships.

To complement the equestrian events, spectators can partake in some of the best wines, beer, spirits and farm-fresh products Maryland has to offer. At the Beer, Wine and Spirits Showcase on Saturday, sip on samples from an amazing lineup of more than a dozen local wineries, breweries and distilleries. On Sunday, the Fresh Food Fest offers a taste of Maryland's seasonal fruits and vegetables, dairy products, meats, seafood, and more from local farmers, growers and makers.

Fair Hill Special Event Zone
4600 Telegraph Road
Elkton, MD 21921