Looking for something unique, fun and very historic to do without having to go on vacation?
The 77th Germantown Charity Horse Show returns June 2–6, bringing five days of beautiful horses in competition in a very family-friendly environment at GCHS’s show grounds at 7745 Poplar Pike.
It is recognized as one of the nation’s largest multi-breed horse shows and one of the longest-running sporting events in Tennessee!
The show has also been recognized as a Heritage Competition by the United States Equestrian Federation, one of only 29 in the country. And earlier this year, it earned a Shelby County Historical Marker for its long-standing impact.
You don’t need to know anything about horses or equestrian competitions to enjoy the show and all it offers!
Experience the Magic and Majesty of the Show, and Other Things Too!
Over the course of the week, about 1,000 horses will be on the show grounds—that’s a lot of horsepower! Competitors from near and far will showcase their very best as ribbons, trophies, and championship prizes are awarded throughout the week.
- Each day and evening offers a full schedule of competition and entertainment, with approximately 20 classes featured nightly (different types of competitions). Click here for a list of daily highlights and detailed daily schedules.
- Each class showcases the unique talent and athleticism of both horse and rider. You’ll see an impressive variety of breeds and competitions throughout the week including:
- Saddlebreds moving with elegance and style
- Paso Finos showing off their rhythmic precision as they “tap dance”
- Beautiful Gypsy Vanners with flowing manes and feathered legs
- Carriage driving competitions, including the always entertaining Carriage Dog Class, featuring drivers accompanied by their canine companions
- Crowd-favorites such as fast paced scurry racing
- Flat-shod Tennessee Walking Horses in Western and English classes
- Racking Horses in the thrilling speed racking classes
- Multiple exciting jumping competitions with the Hunters and Jumpers showing off their precision and skill
And for something truly exciting, the week builds toward the $25,000 Grand Prix of Germantown on Saturday night, where top riders compete in a fast-paced expert jumping competition that keeps the crowd on the edge of their seats.
The Action isn’t Just Happening in the Arena!
Vendors offer delectable food and sweet treats, unique finds of all kinds from a variety of jewelry to boutique clothing, and services from wellness and beauty to home improvement, and community focused organizations such as WarHorses for Heroes. The Germantown Commissary will serve its legendary barbecue, while Charity’s General Store offers GCHS branded merchandise and a wonderful selection of other items. There is also an auction tent with a selection of treasures.
It’s fun to spend an entire evening watching the competitions, walking around, sampling food from multiple vendors, browsing the booths, perhaps doing a little shopping, and enjoying the incredible atmosphere.
Special Events
Ice Cream Social:
You are invited to enjoy the daily ice cream social sponsored by Pegasus of Germantown! Drop by the Bess Berry Pavilion (located near the Show Office) between 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, to enjoy a delicious scoop.
Box Seat Decoration Contest:
Take a stroll to enjoy the creativity of box holders, with themes ranging from the classic and elegant to the delightfully whimsical. (Friday evening | Judging takes place during the evening performances)
Big Hats and Bow Ties Competition:
Everyone is invited to compete. Come dressed to impress in your best Derby-inspired attire and show off your unique style! Winners will be announced during the evening performances. (Saturday evening | Judging takes place during the Grand Prix which begins around 5:00 p.m.)
Stick Horse Race:
Open to children 8 and under, this fun event invites young riders to race stick horses purchased at Charity’s General Store or brought from home. On-site registration is required at the Princess Tent with a $5 entry fee. (Saturday evening following the Grand Prix)
It’s Named the Germantown Charity Horse Show for a Reason
The Germantown Charity Horse Show (GCHS) has been an important part of our community and history since its founding in 1948. It seeks to preserve the equestrian history of Germantown and to financially assist charities in our community by producing an annual horse show for the enjoyment of competitors and spectators.
Proceeds from the annual show are the source of GCHS’s charitable giving focused on children, families and education. Over the years, GCHS has given to a number of local organizations and in 2025, donations were made to:
- Memphis Child Advocacy Center
- Kindred Place
- Room in the Inn
- Memphis Oral School for the Deaf
- Germantown Education Foundation
- Arts programs at Houston and Germantown High Schools
In addition, the GCHS show grounds are not just a venue for equestrian events – they are an essential economic engine for Germantown and the Mid-South.
Family-Friendly, Affordable, and Easy to Attend
Another reason the show is loved – it’s accessible.
Dates & Times
June 2 through June 6, daily competitions begin at 7:30 a.m. and conclude around 10:00 p.m. or when the last class finishes, with events typically running later into the evening on Friday and Saturday.
Admission & Tickets
- Daytime admission is free.
- Opening night, Tuesday, June 2, is free for everyone.
- Kids 3 and under are admitted free.
- Evening tickets are just $8, making it one of the most affordable summer outings in the area, and parking is free.
Buy e-tickets online at GCHS.org, pay at the gate when you arrive, or purchase tickets locally at Germantown Hardware and Saddles N’ Such in Germantown.
Location, Parking & Shuttles
The GCHS show grounds are located at 7745 Poplar Pike, Germantown, TN.
Free public parking is available in the grass area in front of the arena, at Germantown High School, Germantown Presbyterian Church, and on surrounding streets as permitted. Accessible parking is located in the lot directly in front of Founders Pavilion (home to the ticket office). During the show, Germantown Police officers will be on site directing traffic and assisting guests to the nearest available accessible parking.
A complimentary shuttle service will run from the high school and church lots to Founders Pavilion on the show grounds and back via open-air “People Movers,” beginning at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and noon on Saturday.
We can’t wait to welcome you to the show!
This blog was written by Germantown Charity Horse Show
