Horse races on the beach

This exciting, beautiful sporting spectacle is one of Europe's oldest equestrian contests.

Since 1845, during the evening's low tide in the month of August, the beaches of Sanlúcar de Barrameda have been used for horse races. Popular tradition has it that the origins of these celebrations go back to the informal competitions that took place between fishmongers, to see who could get to market first.The event comprises two 3-day cycles. On each day, beneath a spectacular sunset, riders compete for various prizes in a lively atmosphere. Anyone can attend free of charge and at the finish line there are official betting stands to make the races even more exciting. Extra fun is provided by the children, who organise their own bets from original, colourful stands they set up all along the beach. The festivities in Sanlúcar in honour of the local patron saint are held during the same period, and feature parades of carts and carpet of flowers in the streets in the centre of town.