On Thursday, June 26, Governor Wes Moore applauded the recently released economic impact study that shows that the 2024 Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) generated $9.1 million in economic activity for Prince George’s County, up from $8.5 million in 2023. The competition also maintained its prestigious FEI Five-Star status — the highest global ranking in equestrian sport.

This FEI Five-Star distinction continues to attract top athletes, trainers, and fans from around the world, including 10 Olympians at the 2024 show, eight of whom were fresh from the 2024 Paris Summer Games and members of the silver medal-winning team. Overall, the 2024 competition drew 666 participants and more than 15,000 spectators from 35 states and 13 countries.

“We are proud of the powerful economic momentum coming out of the equine industry. The Washington International Horse Show has a distinguished history of lifting Maryland communities over the decades. We look forward to building on that foundation, as we move in partnership to create jobs, drive growth, attract visitors, and unite behind a sport that stands at the heart of what makes Maryland strong.”  

Governor Wes Moore (June 26, 2025)

Direct outlays to stage WIHS, and the direct outlays from participants and visitors, totaled $6.2 million. Those outlays in turn generated an additional $1.985 million in new personal earnings for workers residing in Prince George’s County. Overall, those outlays supported the equivalent of 62.2 full-time (year-round) employees.

Show-related professionals are estimated to have spent $1.65 million in the county during the competition, generating $440,000 in new earnings for area employees.

Moreover, out-of-state participants (competitors or spectators) and show staff accounted for at least 4,823 nights in area hotels. Individuals competitors, riders, trainers, and spectators almost certainly accounted for significant additional hotel stays.

WIHS is a case study in how equestrian competitions can revitalize local economies and elevate industry standards. WIHS President Vicki Lowell said “WIHS merges global competition with meaningful local impact. We’re building a model where equestrian sport uplifts communities and inspires future generations.”

Maryland Horse Industry Board Chair Sheila Curry seconded Lowell’s sentiment: “WIHS shows how the horse industry can drive economic growth, shape young lives and celebrate elite sport all at once.”

WIHS is just one of several Maryland horse shows that generate substantial economic activity for the state. Others include the Maryland International Horse Trials at Loch Moy Farm, occurring this weekend from June 27-29, the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, occurring this year from October 16-19, and several other major equine events at Prince George’s County’s Show Place Arena: the Maryland Horse & Pony Show (Sept. 10-13); the Bill Pickett Rodeo (Sept, 19-20); the Capitol Challenge Horse Show (Sept. 24-Oct. 5); and the PVDA Fall Show (Nov. 18).

You can stay current on the Maryland show calendar by reading the Calendar of Events published every month in The Equiery.