Devon, Pa. – April 16, 2021 – The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair (DHSCF) would like to update its announcement regarding the cancellation of the 125th edition of its event, originally scheduled for May 27 – June 6, 2021. Although U.S. Equestrian (USEF) has updated its COVID-19 attendance guidelines more quickly than previously stated, their adjustments will not alter DHSCF’s decision to cancel its 2021 event. We appreciate the outpouring of support from our attendees, fans, and broader community and look forward to celebrating our milestone anniversary in 2022.
The COVID-19 pandemic has continued to have long lasting negative effects despite social distancing guidelines and recent vaccination efforts. With many factors beyond capacity limits, the social distancing protocols for such an intimate venue would have continued to prevent the success of the show regardless of the increase in allowed participation. The decision to cancel was overwhelmingly embraced by our local community as the right choice in these uncertain times. The DHSCF believes in protecting the health and safety of their entire community and does not believe this is possible with the venue’s structural limitations.
The DHSCF is unlike any other horse show in the country. Although many other horse shows are able to operate under restricted conditions, the Board of Directors realizes that it cannot sacrifice the less recognizable parts of its event to run something that will be largely unrecognizable and that only a few can participate in. The complicated mechanics of putting on an event of Devon’s size was put on hold based on months of conversations with USEF. There is not enough time to resume preparations based on the adjusted timeline of USEF. As previously stated, the cancellation decision was made only after significant evaluation of the far-reaching operational and financial implications.
The DHSCF and its storied history is uniquely tied to our location, varied participants and spectator base for a successful event. After countless conversations representing multiple perspectives, the decision will remain the same for the integrity of the event.
The DHSCF staff will continue to contact all stakeholders with information regarding cancellation processes and applicable refunds.
For additional information please visit our website at www.DevonHorseShow.net or follow us on our social media channels.
