Don’t Miss the Annual HCC Grand Prix

One of the year’s most exciting horse-related event in Maryland, outside of the Preakness, is Howard County Community College’s Grand Prix. Held each September at Marama Farm in Clarksville, Md., the HCC Grand Prix is a beautiful 15-minute ride from the Wayside Inn and a great way to spend an afternoon.

The 2015 event will be held September 19, 2015, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Be sure to check the website for updated event information!

Long-time horse enthusiasts and those new to the sport will enjoy a day on this beautiful farm. The HCC Grand Prix began in 1987 as a way to showcase the talents of upcoming equestrians and raise funds for the Howard County Community College’s scholarship fund.

The event was first held on the school’s front lawn but has since moved to Marama Farm, which hosts other events, such as polo matches, and can accommodate a crowd of thousands. The HCC Grand Prix has certainly evolved into a premier local event, with its world-class equestrian events and exhibitions, as well as pony rides, food and craft vendors, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, children’s activities and live music. In recent years, there has even been a beer garden that offers locally brewed beer!

Where to Sit for the HCC Grand Prix

Choose from general admission lawn seating where you can bring your own blanket or chair and relax as you watch the show from close range. Grandstand seating is also available, which puts you ringside and offers an elevated view for all of the action. General admission tickets can be purchased for $10 each. Children 10 and younger are free. Grandstand seating is just $15 for adults. Children 10 and under $8.

Watch Horses Fly and Students Soar

The Grand Prix is a U.S. Equestrian Federation-sanctioned event and the biggest event of the year for the Howard Community College Educational Foundation. The HCC Educational Foundation is a nonprofit corporation that provides funds for student scholarships, grants and programs. Money raised at events such as the Grand Prix go to fund these scholarships. Whether you are a local or just visiting the Baltimore area for a few days, attending an event like this is a great opportunity for you to support a local cause and see talented young equestrians in action.

START PLANNING YOUR VISIT

Whether you plan to visit the Baltimore/Washington, D.C., area for business or pleasure, let the Wayside Inn take some of the guesswork out of planning your trip. Download our Free Vacation Guide to help you figure out the best place to stay, as well as some of the other fun and interesting things to see and do in the area. The Wayside Inn is a great place to call your home away from home whenever you visit the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area. Our six beautiful guest rooms offer all the comforts of home, and you can enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning!

Planning a quick trip? Check our website for last-minute availability and specials!

Photo Credit: Kseniya Abramova / istock / Thinkstock