Jennifer Ward, Jump Media 

July 14, 2021 - The Royal Horse Show, held as part of the iconic Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, ON, will not take place in 2021. 

Due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and after considerable research and consultation, The Royal’s Board of Directors made the decision on July 14 to cancel the in-person 2021 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Instead, The Royal will present an education-focused online experience while continuing to plan for its 100th Anniversary celebration in 2022. 

The CSI4*-W Royal Horse Show is highlighted by the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Toronto and, in addition to world-class show jumping, also features indoor eventing, dressage, coaching, and various other horse sports and special exhibitions. Each fall, equestrian athletes from across the country and around the globe arrive in Toronto to compete in the grand finale of the Canadian competition season. 

“Initially, we were optimistic that we would be able to gather at Exhibition Place this year to celebrate Canadian excellence in food, agriculture, and equestrian sport but, as COVID-19 has continued to create havoc in the world, it became clear that we weren’t going to be able to host The Royal in a traditional way,” said Charlie Johnstone, Chief Executive Officer at The Royal. “Our exhibitors and competitors put everything they’ve got into the pursuit of a championship, and we owe them a world-class showcase for their efforts. We’re simply not in a place yet to guarantee the stability and necessary assurances.” 

Johnstone continued, “We would like to recognize the Royal Horse Show’s presenting sponsor, Longines, and the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) for their ongoing support and understanding as we’ve navigated the ever-evolving conditions that come with hosting an event of this magnitude. We look forward to mounting a Royal Horse Show, culminating in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Toronto, that is bigger and stronger than ever during next year’s 100th anniversary celebrations.” 

The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is the largest combined indoor agricultural fair and international equestrian competition in the world. In a typical year, this truly unique event brings together thousands of competitors and animals, including more than 1,000 horses, and nearly 300,000 guests to celebrate the best in agriculture, local food, and equestrian competition.  

The Royal’s Board of Directors, staff, and management remain committed to creating a safe and healthy space for everyone to gather, compete, and celebrate during its 100th anniversary from November 4 to 13, 2022. 

For more information, please visit the Royal Winter Fair website. 

Photo: Ireland’s Bertram Allen won the $210,000 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Toronto riding GK Casper to close out the 2019 Royal Horse Show in Toronto, ON. Photo: Ben Radvanyi Photography