Every autumn, Budapest (Budapest) becomes the stage for one of the most prestigious equestrian events: the Friesian Horse Breeders’ Inspection and Friesian Horse Showcase. Scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the Cinkota Equestrian Courtyard (Cinkotai Lovasudvar), this event attracts breeders, horse lovers, and families alike to discover why the Friesian is considered one of the most captivating horse breeds in the world.
Perfectly poised and intelligent, Friesian horses almost seem aware of their centuries-old heritage. They carry themselves as if they know the special place they hold in people’s hearts. The breeding of Friesians follows strict, often rigid traditions and rules that have been maintained for hundreds of years. Only the best and brightest pass the extensive, months-long tests where their appearance, movement, performance, and character all come under close scrutiny. This is why there are only about a hundred recognized Friesian breeding stallions worldwide—truly an elite group.
Event Program Highlights
From 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, expert Dutch judges will inspect and evaluate Friesian foals, mares, and stallions. At 1:00 pm, the elegance of these horses shines during the Friesian Horse Beauty Contest. The showcase continues from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm, featuring stunning demonstrations under saddle and in hand. Whether you’re watching from the stands or enjoying the hot and cold refreshments available throughout the day, the experience promises to amaze. Rain or shine, the event will proceed, thanks to indoor facilities.
Admission is only available at the venue. Entry is free for children under 5, USD 2.70 for ages 6-14, and USD 8.20 for everyone aged 14 and above.
The Mission Behind the Horses
Since its founding on October 31, 2002, the Friesian Horse Breeders Association of Hungary (Magyarországi Fríz Lótenyésztők Egyesülete) has brought together local breeders and owners with the goal of preserving and expanding the gene pool of the Hungarian Friesian horse population. Interest in the breed has surged in recent years, and the association works tirelessly to share reliable, up-to-date information with all horse enthusiasts.
Maintaining breed purity remains a top priority. The Friesian breeding system relies on a small population of broodmares and, even more critically, on a select few stallions. Intensive judging and regular quality control—overseen by the Royal Dutch Association (Koninklijke Vereniging “Het Friesch Paarden-Stamboek”)—ensure that the breed’s elegance, calm temperament, and noble movement captivate wherever they go. The association also coordinates local breeders, manages pedigree registrations, and ensures that top-quality breeding material is available throughout the Hungarian breeding season.
The annual breeders’ inspection has become a highlight of the Hungarian Friesian scene, cementing Budapest’s (Budapest) place as a true European hub for Friesian aficionados. The upcoming showcase is not just an event—it’s an invitation to witness horse breeding excellence firsthand.
