Don't miss the Festival of the Iberian Horse

In less than two weeks, the Festival of the Iberian Horse will return to the Westpoint Arena in Exeter, running August 29 until September 1.

Now in its third year, the festival, which celebrates the horses, art, and culture of the Iberian Peninsula, has received widespread critical acclaim.

For four days, Westpoint Arena will be transformed into a Mediterranean wonderland and bring to Devon the passion, drama, energy, and heat of Iberia.

The festival is split into interactive daytime events, including working equitation, and dramatic arena performances. 

Above. Clémence Faivre. Image: Katarzyna Okrzesik/Festival of the Iberian Horse

In addition to the theatrical, musical, and artistic equestrian displays, there will be tapas, paella, dancers, cooking demonstrations, and more for a fully immersive cultural experience.

This year, the festival will feature internationally renowned equestrians from Spain and Portugal with impressive performances to a spectacular sound and light system.

Highlights include Córdoba Ecuestre, hailing from the Royal Stables of Cordoba—the birthplace of the purebred Spanish horse—and Silke Vallentin, who is said to deliver an inspirational performance, working with horses from a wheelchair.

Above. Silke Vallentin. Image: Festival of the Iberian Horse

There will also be vibrant flamenco dances throughout the venue, featuring the talented Rebeca Ortega from Spain. 

The festival’s headline performer is Clémence Faivre, who, after a 12-year hiatus, is making a grand return to the UK.

Clémence revolutionised horsemanship by performing never before seen movements with style and artistry.

An accomplished equestrian artist, stuntwoman, film actress, and Lusitano stud farm owner, Clémence and her horses have toured the world and performed in front of royalty, in haute couture fashion shows, and films.

Clémence was also the first woman to perform in Saudi Arabia. 

Above. Image: Festival of the Iberian Horse

The horses performing are either Pure Spanish Horses (PRE), commonly known as Andalusians, or Lusitanos.

Fleur, the festival’s creative director, was inspired to create the show 11 years ago after she purchased a Lusitano.

She began the small organisation at Tall Trees in Cornwall before taking a leap of faith to Westpoint in 2022. 

A spokesperson for the festival said: “It's an unmissable Mediterranean masterpiece showcasing equestrianism of the very highest levels in a production to rival the biggest shows of the world.

“This is a truly once in a lifetime experience to witness a rare lineup of equine stars, dancers, and artists, and being here in the south west, what a remarkable opportunity to have an exciting day and night out without having to travel to the big cities.”

Above. Image: Aga Karmol/Festival of the Iberian Horse

You can purchase the remaining tickets here.