Hungarians are really proud of their equestrian traditions and Budapest holds an annual cultural event celebrating it. The National Gallop will take place this year between 20-22 September in the Heroes’ Square.
The event is the biggest Hungarian equestrian festival and the program is quite colorful. The participants will be able to taste specific Hungarian dishes and drinks in the Kitchen of Hungary while viewing the qualifications and finals of the races included in the event: the National Gallop Race, the Little Hussar gallop, the Race Car Sliding, the Carriage Galop and more. Viewers will also be able to admire the Lady Horse show (circle 2 horse, 3 car on actresses) and stud presentations.
This festival started in 2008 and soon became famous in the equestrian community, but also as an event for masses. Now, it is an important attraction of the city for both locals and tourists. A lot of preparations are required from participants in the races. Men and horses train for this event (and not only) in order to be in a great shape and win the contest.
The National Gallop is basically a resurrected military tradition, an event that focuses on the equestrian tradition but one that also highlights the important figures, including the only female knight, Lebstück Mary.
The event has also a humanitarian purpose, as it supports and encourages blood donations! You can find out more about the event on its official website. So, if you are planning a visit in Hungary and, specifically, to Budapest soon, you might consider purchasing a ticket to this festival if you like horses and want to participate in what seems to be a high class show.