Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show closes with sport, culture, and festive flair

The Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show 2026 concluded its three-day run yesterday at AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE), marking a vibrant celebration of the Year of the Horse with top-tier sport, entertainment, and festive experiences.

Held from January 30 to February 1, the event attracted spectators from Hong Kong, the mainland, and overseas, reinforcing the city’s position as a premier hub for world-class mega events.

A central highlight of the finale was the “AsiaWorld-Expo Speed Stakes – 5* International Showjumping Competition.”

Certified at the elite CSI5* level by the Fédération Équestre Internationale—equivalent to Olympic-level competition—the class featured a demanding course with obstacles up to 1.5 meters high.

Germany’s Richard Vogel claimed the championship with an impressive winning time of 45.82 seconds.

Equestrian sport meets festivities

Adding a cultural dimension to the sporting action, a festive interactive zone was introduced to blend equestrianism with traditional Chinese New Year elements.

Visitors were immersed in a joyful atmosphere featuring a flower-themed art installation, festive photo spots, and activities such as fortune-drawing and wish-making.

Exclusive Year of the Horse decorations, including limited-edition couplets co-created by local artists and the AWE Bear, proved especially popular among families, young audiences, and international visitors.

A cross-generational spectacle

Embracing a sports-meets-entertainment-meets-lifestyle concept, the event evolved into a cross-generational spectacle.

Beyond elite competitions such as the Shetland Pony Grand National and the Hong Kong Jockey Club Asian Youth Challenge, the inclusion of crowd favorites like the “Airport Authority Hong Kong presents: Hong Kong Dog Agility Competition” added a playful and interactive element.

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At the heart of the experience was a 180,000-square-foot Lifestyle Shopping Village, bustling with more than 50 local and international brands alongside a wide selection of dining options.

Audiences were treated to daily highlights ranging from a Dog Fashion Show and live DJ sets to a climactic final-night performance by Hong Kong pop star Ian Chan Cheuk-yin of MIRROR.

Venue transformation

The event’s success was further bolstered by an extensive venue transformation, with AWE converted into a fully compliant indoor equestrian complex spanning over 360,000 square feet.

The venue featured international-standard arenas and a purpose-built stable accommodating more than 70 horses.

Beyond core facilities, AWE also offered premium hospitality and all-day entertainment, broadening the show’s appeal and aligning with Hong Kong’s wider tourism development strategy.