The Carreras de Caballos normally takes place in Sanlúcar de Barrameda as close to the second and fourth weekends of August as the tides permit.
By Nick Nutter | Updated 21 Aug 2023 | Cádiz | Events |
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Carreras de Caballos at Sanlucar de Barrameda
Carreras de Caballos in iSanlúcar de Barrameda s traditionally held on the Friday to Sunday on the second and fourth weeks of August. Some years they move forward one week due to the tides.
In 2023, the Sanlucar horse races are scheduled to take place on 10th to 12th August 2023 and 25th to 27th August 2023.
20,000 square metres of beach
Shortly after 6.30pm on the Friday, the tape goes up on one of the most spectacular, and unusual, horse races in the world.
At low tide, the 20,000 square metre Atlantic beach at Sanlucar de Barrameda is the scene of a series of horse races that date back to 1845, the ‘Carreras de Caballos’. Thousands of spectators pack the stands set up on the beach whilst horses and riders thunder past on the firm sand. In the background the estuary of the Rio Guadalquivir and the banks of the Donana National Park provide a scenic setting.
After the races are finished for the evening, you can hopefully enjoy a magnificent sunset and then join in the celebrations in the town. The restaurants are known for their crustaceans and fish, washed down with a bottle of the local Manzanilla.
The start times of the races are not confirmed until the day because they depend on the tide and the number of horses running.
The Sanlucar horse races is a ticketed event and you can buy tickets online on the official website. Entry is free for children up to 12 years old.
The races have been declared an Andalucian fiesta of national and international tourist interest.
Learn more about Sanlucar and explore the town during your visit with our guide to Sanlucar de Barameda.
Sanlucar de Barrameda is a lovely spot for a seaside getaway. With a mix of hotels and apartment rentals at affordable rates, you can’t go wrong with a stay here.
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