The fourth annual MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory, returns to Cecil County, Maryland October 17-20, 2024, bringing elite equestrian athletes, horses and enthusiasts from all over the world to the beautiful Fair Hill Special Event Zone. Hailed as the “Triathlon of Equestrian Sports,” Eventing is the ultimate test of horse and rider with only two 5 Star level equestrian competitions in the U.S. and seven worldwide.
The prestigious 5 Star (CCI5*-L) designation is the pinnacle of the sport of Eventing, which is comprised of three phases: Dressage, Cross-Country and Show Jumping. It is also one of the few sports where men and women compete alongside one another as equals, up through the Olympic level.
In addition to the CCI5*-L competition, the event also hosts a 3 Star (CCI3*-L) competition, and the USEA Young Event Horse (YEH) East Coast Championships, which is often the litmus test to identify young horses that possess the talent and disposition to excel at the upper levels of the sport. Over 180 total entries are expected to compete.
The Maryland 5 Star features four days of competition. Thursday and Friday showcase the Dressage phase, highlighting the grace and precision of horse and rider. Saturday brings the adrenaline-pumping Cross-Country phase, with breath-taking courses created by renowned designer, Ian Stark; competitors trek nearly four-miles of tough terrain, navigating over 40 obstacles. Sunday features the Show Jumping finale, where competitors jump over fragile obstacles in the main arena and every rail could make the difference in the final standings. The horse and rider combination with the least number of penalty points across all three phases and lowest score overall, will be crowned the winner.
This event attracts top eventers from around the world, offering spectators the chance to witness world-class performances up close, with a number of expected participants having also competed in eventing at this year’s Summer Olympics in Paris. In 2023, Irish-born eventer Austin O’Connor secured Ireland’s first victory in a 5 Star event in 58 years.
The event is more than just thrilling upper-level eventing competition; it’s four days of sampling local food and beverage, shopping, tailgating and a slew of family-friendly activities. And that’s the whole family, dogs are welcome. There’s something for everyone!
The event features delicious food trucks, a sampling of the best brews, wines and spirits from local producers at the Beer, Wine & Spirits Expo, hosted by Elk River Brewing Company on Saturday and fresh, locally sourced food at the Fresh Food Festival on Sunday. Don’t forget to try the famous Apple Cider Donuts from Cecil County’s very own, Milburn Orchards.
Find gifts for the holidays with a wide array of shopping options throughout the event, including apparel, décor and more.
Jam out to local musical acts featured each day and be sure to get a front row spot to cheer on corgis in the cutest race on four legs, at the third annual Maryland Corgi Cup on Sunday.
Kids have plenty to do too with the Kids’ Corner providing fun and engaging activities for the youngest fans, including a petting zoo, arts and crafts, barnyard games, a straw maze and more. General Admission to the event for Children 10 and under is FREE when accompanied by a paid adult.
Additional attractions include an equine Hall of Champions exhibit, Shetland Pony Racing, a Rescue Dog Parade and MARS VIPet, where dogs are the VIP and you’re the +1.
Whether you’re an equestrian enthusiast or in search of the perfect Fall family event, the 2024 MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill is THE place to be in October!