Experience world-class equestrian sport set against the backdrop of Virginia’s rolling countryside.
Great Meadow invites you to witness the power, grace, and tradition of equestrian sport at one of the most iconic venues in the nation. From thundering steeplechase races to elegant dressage performances, every event at Great Meadow connects spectators to the heart of Virginia’s Horse and Hunt Country.
Our 374-acre property was purpose-built to celebrate the bond between horse and rider, offering breathtaking open space and unforgettable views from every angle. Whether you’re a lifelong enthusiast or a first-time visitor, you’ll find yourself immersed in a one-of-a-kind experience where sport meets community and heritage comes alive.
Events You’ll Experience
Steeplechase Racing
Dressage
Show Jumping & Horse Trials
Polo Matches
Trail Rides
We host many local groups for trail rides on our beautiful property throughout the year.
Special Exhibitions & Traditions
Enjoy unique equestrian showcases, demonstrations, participate in cross country schooling days, and join our community celebrations throughout the year for pony rides and more!
Upcoming Equestrian Events
August
11aug5:00 pm7:30 pmCLINIC | Foundations in PoloClinician | Doug Barnes
Event Details
This introductory clinic provides participants with a safe and supportive introduction to polo, highlighting the discipline as an exciting second-career option for Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTB’s). The clinic emphasizes partnership, responsiveness,
Event Details
This introductory clinic provides participants with a safe and supportive introduction to polo, highlighting the discipline as an exciting second-career option for Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTB’s). The clinic emphasizes partnership, responsiveness, balance, and confidence-building rather than competition. Riders will gain an understanding of the unique horsemanship skills required in polo while learning how Thoroughbreds naturally excel in the sport. This clinic is designed for riders who have little or no previous polo experience with a focus on transferable flatwork skills that benefit horses regardless of their future discipline. This series of clinics is supported by a grant through the Virginia Horse Industry Board.
Learn More About the 2026 Series of OTTB ReStart Clinics at Great Meadow HERE.
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Organizer
Great Meadow Foundation
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
13aug8:00 am2026 CDCTA Summer Dressage Schooling Shows
Event Details
The CDCTA Dressage Shows are USEF/USDF licensed competitions organized by the Commonwealth Dressage & Combined Training Association (CDCTA), held at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. They provide a welcoming,
Event Details
The CDCTA Dressage Shows are USEF/USDF licensed competitions organized by the Commonwealth Dressage & Combined Training Association (CDCTA), held at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. They provide a welcoming, professional environment for riders of all levels to compete in dressage.
Commonwealth Dressage & Combined Training Association (CDCTA) is a nonprofit, USDF Group Member Organization (GMO) and affiliated combined training association.
Their mission is to promote dressage and eventing in Virginia through competitions, education, and community support. They offer riders a chance to earn qualifying scores for regional and national championships while enjoying the camaraderie of the dressage community.
Time
Tickets to attend
FREE and OPEN to the public to watch
Location
Great Meadow
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Fleming Farm Arena
Organizer
Commonwealth Dressage and Combined Training Association (CDCTA)
Great Meadow
15aug7:30 am5:30 pmCLINIC | Dressage: Confidence Before CollectionClinician | Michael Alway
Event Details
Developing the Fundamentals for the Restarted Thoroughbred with Michael Alway This hands-on clinic focuses on building confidence, communication, and suppleness in the Off-Track Thoroughbred through a deeper understanding of equine psychology
Event Details
Developing the Fundamentals for the Restarted Thoroughbred with Michael Alway
This hands-on clinic focuses on building confidence, communication, and suppleness in the Off-Track Thoroughbred through a deeper understanding of equine psychology and learning. Participants will learn how horses think, process information, and respond to training, creating a stronger foundation for future success in any discipline.
Each session combines groundwork and ridden work designed to improve trust, responsiveness, relaxation, and rider effectiveness. The clinic is suitable for Thoroughbreds at various stages of retraining and for riders of varying experience levels. This series of clinics is supported by a grant through the Virginia Horse Industry Board.
Learn More About the 2026 Series of OTTB ReStart Clinics at Great Meadow HERE.
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Fleming Farm Arena
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Organizer
Great Meadow Foundation
15aug5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | POLO STARTS AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
22aug9:00 am2:00 pmCLINIC | Intro to FoxhuntingClinician | Natalie Wales
Event Details
Foxhunting is one of the most accessible and rewarding second careers for retired Thoroughbred racehorses, yet many riders are hesitant to try it because they are unfamiliar with the traditions,
Event Details
Foxhunting is one of the most accessible and rewarding second careers for retired Thoroughbred racehorses, yet many riders are hesitant to try it because they are unfamiliar with the traditions, etiquette, and expectations of the hunt field. This unique clinic begins with a “Reverse Tailgate”—bringing participants together before they ride to recreate the informal educational conversations that traditionally happen after a hunt. Riders will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn the customs and culture of foxhunting, and gain confidence before ever putting a foot in the stirrup. The mounted portion then transitions into the field, where participants experience riding as a group in working hunt territory, practicing the skills and etiquette that prepare both horse and rider for a successful first day with the hunt.
Learn More About the 2026 Series of OTTB ReStart Clinics at Great Meadow HERE.
This series of clinics is supported by a grant through the Virginia Horse Industry Board.
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Organizer
Great Meadow Foundation
Great Meadow
22aug5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | POLO STARTS AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
29aug5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | POLO STARTS AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
September
06sep8:00 amCDCTA Horse Trials
Event Details
The CDCTA USEA Horse Trials are annual spring and fall eventing competitions organized by the Commonwealth Dressage & Combined Training Association (CDCTA). They are recognized by the United States Eventing
Event Details
The CDCTA USEA Horse Trials are annual spring and fall eventing competitions organized by the Commonwealth Dressage & Combined Training Association (CDCTA). They are recognized by the United States Eventing Association (USEA) and held at Nelson Farm in Berryville, Virginia. Riders compete across dressage, cross-country, and show jumping phases, ranging from Introductory to Preliminary levels.
Entries: Managed through USEA’s XEntry system, with prize lists and closing dates posted online.
Time
Tickets to attend
FREE and OPEN to the public to watch
Location
Fleming Farm
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Fleming Farm
Organizer
Commonwealth Dressage and Combined Training Association (CDCTA)
08sep8:00 am4:00 pmCLINIC | Cross-CountryClinician | Sharon White
Event Details
This eventing clinic is designed to build confidence for both OTTB and rider alike in the Cross-Country phase format. Sharon White is offering four clinic sessions (Beginner Novice, Novice, Training,
Event Details
This eventing clinic is designed to build confidence for both OTTB and rider alike in the Cross-Country phase format. Sharon White is offering four clinic sessions (Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, and Modified level). With both level-specific requirements and OTTB psychology in mind, this clinic aims to build a stronger foundation for the future success of each unique partnership. This series of clinics is supported by a grant through the Virginia Horse Industry Board.
Learn More About the 2026 Series of OTTB ReStart Clinics at Great Meadow HERE.
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Fleming Farm
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Organizer
Great Meadow Foundation
12sep9:00 am3:00 pmA Jump Above Schooling Jumper Show
Event Details
A Jump Above Horse Show is a series of schooling events offering classes from poles through the upper levels. A Jump Above creates a stress-free environment for both horse and
Event Details
A Jump Above Horse Show is a series of schooling events offering classes from poles through the upper levels. A Jump Above creates a stress-free environment for both horse and rider and provides the ultimate learning or development experience.
Time
Tickets to attend
FREE and OPEN to the public to watch
Location
Fleming Farm Arena
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Fleming Farm Arena
Organizer
A Jump Above Horse Shows
12sep5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | MATCHES START AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
13sep10:30 amNSLM Polo Classic Presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN™
Event Details
The 2026 NSLM Polo Classic presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN™ will take place on Sunday, September 13, at Great Meadow Foundation in The Plains, VA. Ticket sales are now open! As the
Event Details
The 2026 NSLM Polo Classic presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN™ will take place on Sunday, September 13, at Great Meadow Foundation in The Plains, VA. Ticket sales are now open!
As the National Sporting Library & Museum’s sole fundraising event each year, the proceeds from the Polo Classic support the NSLM’s mission to preserve, promote, and share the literature, art, and culture, of equestrian, angling and field sports as well as advocate for the conservation of open space and waterways crucial to these sports. Funds raised from the event allow the Library & Museum to host dynamic public programs and fine-art exhibitions, as well as care for its world-renowned collection of nearly 22,000 works covering 500 years of history—all located in the heart of Middleburg.
The Polo Classic is a fun and festive day of polo and wonderful way to experience the NSLM’s mission first-hand. The event includes two top-tier polo matches, seated lunch in the Founders’ Pavilion, champagne divot stomp, traditional parade of the hounds, and much more!
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Grass Polo Field
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Grass Polo Field
Organizer
National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM)
19sep12:00 pmCloverleaf Polo ClassicCelebrating 20 Years!
Event Details
The Annual Cloverleaf Polo Classic is the premier fundraising event for the Cloverleaf Equine Center, held each September at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. It combines world-class polo with
Event Details
The Annual Cloverleaf Polo Classic is the premier fundraising event for the Cloverleaf Equine Center, held each September at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. It combines world-class polo with community celebration to support equine-assisted programs for children, adults with disabilities, marginalized youth, and recovering military personnel.
The Cloverleaf Polo Classic is more than a sporting event—it’s a community-driven fundraiser that sustains programs helping individuals with disabilities, marginalized youth, and veterans in recovery. By blending sport, culture, and philanthropy, it highlights the transformative power of horses in human healing and growth,
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Cloverleaf Equine Center
20sep8:00 amCDCTA Summer Dressage Schooling Shows
Event Details
The CDCTA Dressage Shows are USEF/USDF licensed competitions organized by the Commonwealth Dressage & Combined Training Association (CDCTA), held at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. They provide a welcoming,
Event Details
The CDCTA Dressage Shows are USEF/USDF licensed competitions organized by the Commonwealth Dressage & Combined Training Association (CDCTA), held at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. They provide a welcoming, professional environment for riders of all levels to compete in dressage.
Commonwealth Dressage & Combined Training Association (CDCTA) is a nonprofit, USDF Group Member Organization (GMO) and affiliated combined training association.
Their mission is to promote dressage and eventing in Virginia through competitions, education, and community support. They offer riders a chance to earn qualifying scores for regional and national championships while enjoying the camaraderie of the dressage community.
Time
Tickets to attend
FREE and OPEN to the public to watch
Location
Great Meadow
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Fleming Farm Arena
Organizer
Commonwealth Dressage and Combined Training Association (CDCTA)
Great Meadow
26sep8:00 amOld Tavern Horse Trials
Event Details
Old Tavern Eventing is a high-performance event organizer and management company founded by Darrin Mollett and David O’Connor to enhance the sport of eventing in Northern Virginia and beyond. Our
Event Details
Old Tavern Eventing is a high-performance event organizer and management company founded by Darrin Mollett and David O’Connor to enhance the sport of eventing in Northern Virginia and beyond. Our mission is to provide exceptional competition opportunities for athletes and their equine partners to help them reach their individual goals, whether they are at the entry level, or the highest level of international team competition.
Time
Tickets to attend
FREE and OPEN to the public to watch
Location
Great Meadow
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Fleming Farm
Organizer
Old Tavern Eventing
Great Meadow
26sep5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | POLO STARTS AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
27sep8:00 amOld Tavern Horse Trials
Event Details
DAY 2 Old Tavern Eventing is a high-performance event organizer and management company founded by Darrin Mollett and David O’Connor to enhance the sport of eventing in Northern Virginia and beyond.
Event Details
DAY 2
Old Tavern Eventing is a high-performance event organizer and management company founded by Darrin Mollett and David O’Connor to enhance the sport of eventing in Northern Virginia and beyond. Our mission is to provide exceptional competition opportunities for athletes and their equine partners to help them reach their individual goals, whether they are at the entry level, or the highest level of international team competition.
Time
Tickets to attend
FREE and OPEN to the public to watch
Location
Great Meadow
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Fleming Farm
Organizer
Old Tavern Eventing
Great Meadow
October
03oct5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | POLO STARTS AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
04oct8:00 am3:00 pmA Jump Above Schooling Jumper Show
Event Details
A Jump Above Horse Show is a series of schooling events offering classes from poles through the upper levels. A Jump Above creates a stress-free environment for both horse and
Event Details
A Jump Above Horse Show is a series of schooling events offering classes from poles through the upper levels. A Jump Above creates a stress-free environment for both horse and rider and provides the ultimate learning or development experience.
Time
Tickets to attend
FREE and OPEN to the public to watch
Location
Fleming Farm Arena
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Fleming Farm Arena
Organizer
A Jump Above Horse Shows
10oct5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | POLO STARTS AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
11oct12:30 pm5:00 pmCommander In Chief Polo Tournament
Event Details
The USPA National Arena Commander-in-Chief Cup is the premier military polo championship in the United States, bringing together teams from different service branches to compete for a prestigious national title. The
Event Details
The USPA National Arena Commander-in-Chief Cup is the premier military polo championship in the United States, bringing together teams from different service branches to compete for a prestigious national title.
The Commander-in-Chief Cup is more than a polo match—it’s a living tradition of military sport, emphasizing leadership, teamwork, and horsemanship. It connects modern service members with a century-old cavalry heritage while offering the public a chance to celebrate military culture in a unique sporting context.
Time
Tickets to attend
$
Location
Great Meadow
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Army Polo Club
Great Meadow
17octAll Day18CLINIC | Hunters (2-Day Clinic)Clinician | Sue Lyman
Event Details
This two-day Hunter Clinic is designed specifically for Thoroughbreds transitioning into second careers. The program will emphasize correct flatwork, rhythm, balance, and safe jumping techniques while incorporating the expectations and
Event Details
This two-day Hunter Clinic is designed specifically for Thoroughbreds transitioning into second careers. The program will emphasize correct flatwork, rhythm, balance, and safe jumping techniques while incorporating the expectations and style of the hunter discipline.
The clinic focuses on developing a confident partnership between horse and rider while creating a safe, progressive learning environment. Particular attention will be given to common safety concerns encountered when restarting Thoroughbreds, helping riders build confidence through correct fundamentals rather than simply increasing jumping height.
Learn More About the 2026 Series of OTTB ReStart Clinics at Great Meadow HERE.
This series of clinics is supported by a grant through the Virginia Horse Industry Board.
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Fleming Farm
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Organizer
Great Meadow Foundation
17oct5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | POLO STARTS AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
24oct10:00 am89th Running of the International Gold Cup
Event Details
The International Gold Cup is a premier steeplechase event held annually at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. It is one of the largest steeplechase race-meets in the United States,
Event Details
The International Gold Cup is a premier steeplechase event held annually at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. It is one of the largest steeplechase race-meets in the United States, attracting horse racing enthusiasts from across the country.
The event features thrilling competition, picturesque surroundings, and festive tailgating, with the first International Gold Cup held in Tennessee in 1930 and later moved to Virginia in 1984. The event has become a signature fall event in the region, with competitors from the United Kingdom, Ireland, and France traveling to compete.
The International Gold Cup is known for its pari-mutuel wagering, adding an extra element of excitement for bettors and fans alike.
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Great Meadow
Organizer
Virginia Gold Cup Association (VGCA)
Great Meadow
31octAll Day2026 CDCTA Summer Dressage Schooling Shows
Event Details
All CDCTA shows are open to the public. Register for this event via the link provided.
Event Details
All CDCTA shows are open to the public. Register for this event via the link provided.
Time
Tickets to attend
FREE and OPEN to the public to watch
Location
Fleming Farm Arena
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Fleming Farm ARena
Organizer
Commonwealth Dressage and Combined Training Association (CDCTA)
31oct5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | POLO STARTS AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
November
07nov5:30 pm11:00 pmGreat Meadow Polo Summer Series
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the
Event Details
Experience the return of a beloved Great Meadow tradition with Great Meadow Polo, a fast-paced summer arena polo series held every Saturday evening from May through November. Set against the rolling hills of Virginia’s hunt country, this signature event blends thrilling sport, relaxed tailgating, and the unmistakable charm of Great Meadow.
Great Meadow’s weekly polo series showcases top players, fast-paced action, and unforgettable Saturday nights in Virginia’s horse country. Guests can expect the traditions they love—tailgates on the berm, picnics, a lively social scene—paired with new enhancements that elevate the fan and player experience.
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM | MATCHES START AT 7 PM
Time
Tickets to attend
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Polo
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
08nov12:00 pm3rd Annual Veterans Cup: Polo with Purpose
Event Details
GREAT MEADOW VETERANS CUP: POLO WITH PURPOSE The Veterans Cup is a celebration of courage, community, and commitment. Held on Veterans Day weekend, this signature event brings together equestrian sport, patriotic spirit,
Event Details
GREAT MEADOW VETERANS CUP: POLO WITH PURPOSE
The Veterans Cup is a celebration of courage, community, and commitment.
Held on Veterans Day weekend, this signature event brings together equestrian sport, patriotic spirit, and meaningful philanthropy in honor of those who have served. Through thrilling polo, family fun, and charitable partnerships, we aim to uplift veterans and build stronger community connections.
CHARITY DRIVEN
A percentage of event proceeds benefit nonprofit organizations serving veterans and military families.
COMMUNITY FOCUSED
This event is for everyone!
Family-focused festival atmosphere including food, music, activities,
veteran-owned vendors and more!
HONOR OUR HEROES
Veterans Cup commemorates Veterans Day providing a powerful moment of unity, remembrance, and celebration.
Time
Tickets to attend
$
Location
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
Event Location @ GM
Veterans Stadium
Organizer
Great Meadow Foundation
Great Meadow Veterans Stadium
A Legacy of Excellence
Great Meadow is a beautiful outdoor venue located in The Plains, Virginia. featuring polo, steeplechase, jumpers, dressage and outdoor events for the local community.
Since 1984, Great Meadow has proudly hosted steeplechase races, polo tournaments, horse trials, and more—serving as a cornerstone of Virginia’s equestrian tradition.
Contact us to learn more about hosting or participating in an equestrian event.
