« HORSES IN THE CITY », Place de la Concorde. A unique Event in Europe. It’s free and everyone is welcome

Horse racing is coming to the Place de la Concorde in Paris – don’t miss it !

Photo credit: Fred Peltier / Equi*Concept

When horses gallop through the heart of the city, Parisians discover a whole new world ! In partnership with the City of Paris and under the patronage of the Ministry of Agriculture, France Galop is creating a new way for the public to experience horse racing with a unique celebration : « Horses in the City » : Two days of festivities, discovery and unforgettable experiences in the very heart of Paris. A free event, open to all.     

FREE AND OPEN TO ALL

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 AND SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, FROM 10:00 T0 20:00

An unmissable event where Paris comes alive to the sound of hooves !

Full two-day program :  https://www.francegalop-live.com/les-chevaux-dans-la-ville/

Many free attractions : 

For two days, on Friday, September 5 and Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 10:00 to 20:00, the Place de la Concorde will transfrom into a racecourse, right in the heart of Paris, that is free to enjoy. The main attraction : a giant parade ring, just as you would see at the racecourses where spectators can observe horses parade every hour. 

Throughout these two days, visitors can enjoy a wide range of actitivities :

• Merry-go-round, Pony Cycle races, a creative area and much more.
• An equestrian show by famous stuntman and horse trainer Mario Luraschi on Saturday, September 6 at 15:30.
• Discover the variety of careers in the world of horse racing, in partnership with FNCH, AFASEC, Au-delà Des Pistes Association, GTHP and HRM (Equidia).

• Every day, from 18:30 until closing at 20:00, a DJ set will create a festive and friendly atmosphere for all visitors. 

Inspiring Wonder and Sparking Curiosity

« Horses in the City » offers the French public a unique opportunity to engage with horses and their handlers, right in the heart of Paris. Far more than just an urban event, it offers an immersive journey into the vibrant and captivating world of racecourses. 

The aim: to awaken curiosity, stir the imagination, and inspire everyone to come to the racecourse.

France Galop takes you behind-the-scenes of the racecourses, showcases the expertise of industry professionals and reminds everyone that the horse remains at the center of attention. 
« We envisioned a free, fun and immersive event to showcase horse racing in a completely new way », explains Elie Hennau, Managing Director of France Galop. « On the Place de la Concorde, everyone will have the opportunity to get close to the horses, try out how to ride like a jockey, watch demonstrations and explore the depth of our industry. »

A unique celebration aimed at reconnecting the French public with the world of horse racing

This project reflects France Galop commitment to attracting new audiences through immersive experiences centered on horse racing. The strategy is paying off : at mid-season, the five major racecourses have recorded an 11% increase in attendance, welcoming more than 200 000 visitors.

« From the outset of my mandate, my ambition has been clear : to restore horse racing to the hearts of the French public. With ‘Horses in the City’, France Galop takes a bold step by leaving the racecourse to meet the public in the iconic setting of Place de la Concorde, sharing the passion and expertise of our industry in all its diversity.», explains Guillaume de Saint-Seine, President of France Galop.

A festive event set to shine across France

Following the event in Paris, « Horses in the City » will soon move to Deauville and Chantilly, where the event already transformed the market square into a parade ring last May (24th).

Designed as a large-scale, free celebration, this initiative aligns with France Galop’s strategy : bringing the public closer to the equestrian world by combining sport and entertainment. 

On the Place de la Concorde, a temporary village will feature a giant parade ring, modeled on those found at racecourses where horses and jockeys parade. Surrounding the ring, activities and demonstrations will highlight the full expertise of this exceptional industry. 

This unique event is made possible thanks to the support of the City of Paris and the participation of numerous partners from the equestrian sector (GTHP, AFASEC, FNCH, Au-delà des pistes association and others).