Spring of Equestrian Sports 2026: Competitions, Free Activities, and Horses in Fontainebleau

Head over to the Grand Parquet of Fontainebleau for the Spring of Equestrian Sports, now in its 5th season! From April 16 to 19 and April 22 to 26, 2026, cheer on the world’s top riders in thrilling show jumping and dressage competitions, all while exploring the equestrian world with your family. Best of all, admission is free — making it the perfect spring outing to indulge in fun and excitement over two exciting weeks!

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On the agenda, a first four-day session dedicated to dressage (April 16-19), followed by a five-day event focused on show jumping (April 22-26). The lineup features a CDI 5*, a CSI 5*, para-dressage competitions, the French Master Pro CSO Championship, a CSI Poneys, and numerous events catering to young riders, young horses, and amateur enthusiasts. It's a true treat for and anyone passionate about horses.

During these seven days of competition, the French capital of equestrianism is hosting a variety of free family-friendly activities. Established by Olympic champion Roger-Yves Bost and his wife, the Henson Equestrian Space – Pays de Fontainebleau introduces visitors to the treasures of the Fontainebleau Forest, as well as the lesser-known breed of Picardian horses, renowned for their kind hearts and sure-footedness: the Hensons.

The École Militaire d’Équitation also welcomes children to meet and interact with ponies. They can pet them, brush them, and even ride during scenic outdoor trail rides. In the heart of the Village of Discoveries, young visitors can participate in the Mini-Grand Prix! Sitting atop stick horses as if they were real champions, they'll race to overcome obstacles as quickly as possible!

Not to be missed is the Family Grand Prix, where parents and children team up for a fun costume competition, as well as the treasure hunt organized by Fontainebleau Cheval Association. Participants will embark on a quest to find the "Grand Parquet Chest" using clues hidden throughout the site and solving riddles along the way. To take home a keepsake from their visit, the association also offers a drawing workshop.