León is not only famous for its history, heritage and gastronomy, but also for its passion for horses. Every summer, the city becomes the stage for one of its most eagerly awaited events: the Ciudad de León Equestrian Competition (Concurso Hípico Ciudad de León), which brings together elite riders and thousands of fans at the municipal showground Campo Hípico El Parque.
Held as part of the San Juan and San Pedro festivities, this event usually takes place each year around the last weekend of June, coinciding with the city’s festive programme. It is an occasion that combines sport, a lively atmosphere and family-friendly leisure. The horses, the excitement of the competition and the natural surroundings make every edition a true spectacle.
The Ciudad de León Equestrian Competition
The Ciudad de León Equestrian Competition is now in its 73rd edition and is held at the end of June, in line with the city’s patron saint festivities. It brings together more than 140 elite riders who compete in classes of different heights, from 0.65 to 1.35 metres, with more than 150 starts on the course in each edition.
Among the most prominent names are Pablo García-Gallardo, Jesús González Ayarra, Íñigo González Oraindi, Leandro Medal and Jesús Bamonde, all leading figures in show jumping in Spain. The classes usually begin at 11:00 a.m., making it a perfect plan to enjoy a day outdoors with the family.
Beyond the competition itself, the show is also a social and festive meeting point. The venue offers food and drink areas, music and a lively atmosphere, which means many locals and visitors experience it as a true celebration of the horse in the very heart of the city.
Other equestrian activities in León
The Equestrian Competition is the main event, but León also hosts other activities related to the world of horses. One of the most eye-catching is the Equestrian Parade, which also usually takes place during the San Juan and San Pedro festivities and fills the city streets with colour and tradition, with riders and horses riding along the main avenues in a festive atmosphere.
In addition, throughout the province there are regular demonstrations of classical and working equitation, show-jumping competitions in private riding centres and family activities that bring children closer to the equestrian world. These events help keep the passion for horses alive and constantly growing in León.
The interest in these activities reflects the strong connection between the province, the rural world and the equestrian tradition, rooted for centuries in Leónese culture.
How to get there and enjoy equestrian sport in León
Campo Hípico El Parque, where the competitions are held, is located in a green area of the city, very close to the centre and easily accessible on foot or by car. Its location makes it easy for both locals and tourists to attend while they enjoy the San Juan and San Pedro festivities.
Admission is usually free or at a symbolic price, which makes the competition an affordable plan for all audiences. The organisation provides comfortable stands, shaded areas and food services so you can spend the day there without any worries.
Combining the competition with a stroll through the historic centre or a dinner in the Barrio Húmedo is a perfect way to experience León at this time of year. In this way, the equestrian experience becomes part of a complete trip that blends culture, gastronomy and leisure.
Conclusion
The Ciudad de León Equestrian Competition, held every year around the last weekend of June, is much more than a sporting event: it is a tradition that forms part of the soul of the city. Each edition brings together riders, horses and fans in a festive atmosphere, with top-level classes and parallel activities that make the event a must-see date in León’s calendar.
Your stay in León
If you are coming to enjoy the Equestrian Competition or any other horse-related event in the city, the best option is to stay right in the historic centre. At León Apartamentos we offer modern, comfortable and fully equipped tourist apartments, just a few minutes’ walk from the Cathedral, Plaza Mayor and with easy access to Campo Hípico El Parque. Experience León with the convenience of a central apartment and enjoy a unique stay close to all the city’s main attractions.
