If you've been looking for a reason to make the Gallagher Dublin Horse Show part of your August plans, the newly reimagined family area might just be the thing that tips you over the edge. Little Riders is coming to the RDS from Wednesday 5th to Sunday 9th August 2026, and it sounds like the kind of day out that genuinely delivers for kids and parents alike — not just the one who really wanted to see the horses.
Located on the grounds of the Grand Hall behind the Grandstand, Little Riders will be a dedicated space packed with activities, entertainment and hands-on fun. Think less standing-around-hoping-the-kids-don't-melt-down, and more everyone-is-actually-busy-and-happy. That's the dream, isn't it.
So what's in store for the little ones?
The activity line-up at Little Riders is impressive. Children can take on the Hobby Horse Obstacle Course, try their hand at making their own lucky horseshoe, get their faces painted, or come away with glitter tattoos and colourful braids. There's also a dedicated sensory and chill-out area for visitors who need a quieter moment away from the buzz of the Show — and honestly, that's not just for the kids. Anyone who's ever navigated a busy outdoor event with small children will know how much that kind of space is worth.
The Festina Lente Shetland ponies will be stabled right there in the family area, which means children will get the chance to pet and brush them up close. If you've ever tried to explain to a four-year-old that they can't actually touch the horse, you'll understand exactly why this matters.
In Ring 2, the Positive Strides programme will showcase equine assisted learning and therapeutic services through demonstrations and panel discussions, highlighting how horses support the wellbeing, confidence and life skills of children and adults across Ireland. It's a lovely thread running through the Show that reminds you horses aren't just sport — they have a real impact on people's lives.
Behind the wheel (sort of)
Defender is bringing back the Mini Defender Driving Experience, which lets young drivers navigate a specially designed course in miniature Defender vehicles. It's safe, it's supervised and it's the kind of thing kids will talk about for weeks. The look on a five-year-old's face when they think they're actually driving is worth the ticket price alone.
Getting behind the wheel of a Defender Experience ride-on.
Racing, ponies and a Grand National legend
One of the most exciting new additions this year is the Shetland Pony Grand National, sponsored by Carr & Day & Martin. Taking place throughout the week in both the Laya Arena and EOS IT Solutions Arena, it'll see young riders and their Shetland ponies race around a Grand National-style course. Legendary jockey and Grand National winner Bob Champion will be joining the team throughout the Show — a real coup for horse-mad kids and parents who remember the name well.
At the weekend, the Pony Club Games return to Ring 1, with pony and rider teams putting their speed and skill to the test across a series of high-energy games. If your kids have ever done Pony Club themselves, they'll be gripped.
Children under 4 get in free, and you can save 10% on tickets at dublinhorseshow.com. The Gallagher Dublin Horse Show runs from Wednesday 5th to Sunday 9th August 2026 at the RDS, Dublin.
