[1] There are 15 days of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, and in addition to the equestrian competitions there are activities, entertainment opportunities and attractions. Louisville.com [3] will be identifying the best of what the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games identifies as the Daily Must-Sees [4]. To enjoy these non-competition activities you can get a Grounds Pass for $25 [5] each day. Grounds Pass tickets allow entry to the games for the selected day of purchase but they do not grant access to competition venues or competition venue seating. You will need to purchase separate tickets for these events. And please verify the latest starting times at alltechfeigames.com [6].
Day eight, Oct. 2: Today is a great day to bring the family to the World Equestrian Games. Temperatures will be in the cool mid-60s most of the day with a chance of rain later in the evening. The cross-country phase of the eventing world championship is the ticketed event today and starts at 9 a.m. For those new to the sport, according to the games' website, "Cross-country is a timed test in which each competitor, starting individually, must negotiate a series of solid jumps set in natural terrain which may include jumps into water, over ditches, up and down banks and over large timber fences." And by far it's my favorite event.
As always grounds admission for children 12 years of age and under is free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult. (All spectators, regardless of age, will need a ticket for a reserved seat to the cross-country event.) Browse the trade show area with hundreds of exhibitors from around the world offering gifts, collectibles, artwork, apparel, tack, jewelry, as well as other unique merchandise and services (if you're looking for wind chimes though, the St. James Art Fair is a better bet). As always there will also be great bands and exhibitors through the day.
Photo: Courtesy Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games