Jerez, the site of the World Equestrian Games, holds its Horse Fair 2001

More than a million visitants and 1500 riders are expected (Jerez de la Frontera, Spain - april 2001). On the next days from 13th to 20th May, the Horse Fair of Jerez will be held. Declared of International Tourist Interest, this celebration of 800 years old received last year more than a million visitants from all over the world , who were attracted by the horses, the colour and the joyful atmosphere. This year more than 1.200.000 visitants, 1500 horsemen and 200 cabs ( horse - drawn carriage ) are expected.

The Horse Fair of Jerez goes back to the reign of Alfonso X "The Wise" , who granted Jerez the privilege of having two annual fairs. The Horse Fair was originally a livestock market that changed as time went by, and became an international and joyful celebration. The importance of horses in Jerez is reasserted by the future organisation of the World Equestrian Games in 2002.

The Horse Fair finds its greatest expression in "Real de la Feria", the site where the "casetas" (more than 300) are located. In them the gastronomy, sherry wines and flamenco are part of the gay nature of this celebration. Near the "casetas" we find the horse and carriages parade that offers an unique show due to its colour and grandiosity.

On this edition 2001, together with the Horse Fair, numerous sport activities and competitions are also held. International horse races, Pursuit and Knock down, Classical and Country Dressage, Carriage Shows and Equisur 2001(Competition - Show of selected/ thoroughbred horse livestock).

Horse Competition Planning