Hippiade 2026: Dates, Qualification and Tips for Buyers and Sellers

The Hippiade 2026 is the KNHS outdoor championship and the highlight of the Dutch amateur season. For anyone looking to buy or sell a sport horse or pony, this championship is more than a great event: it helps shape what good horses are worth and signals when the market is at its busiest. In this guide we set out the dates, the qualification process and the practical buyer and seller tips.

Hippiade 2026: dates and location at a glance

The Hippiade 2026 takes place at the Nationaal Hippisch Centrum in Ermelo. The various disciplines are spread across several days in August.

Bear in mind that a final timetable and start lists are only published later in the season. Always check the official KNHS page just before the event for the most up-to-date times.

What exactly is the Hippiade?

The Hippiade is the annual outdoor championship of the KNHS. Riders and drivers who qualify over the course of the season compete here for the national titles in their class and discipline.

It is the ultimate stage for grassroots sport: amateurs, young riders and ponies are given a national arena here. That is precisely what makes the Hippiade so interesting for the everyday buyer and seller, because it shows which horses and ponies are performing at grassroots level.

How does qualification for the Hippiade work?

Qualifying for the Hippiade is done through selection competitions and regional championships held throughout the season. Each discipline, level and category (horse or pony) has its own qualifying requirements.

The exact criteria, class divisions and the number of available starting places are set out in the KNHS championship regulations. If you still want to qualify this season, keep an eye on the following:

• Plan your starts in good time. Selection competitions are tied to fixed periods in the season.
• Compete at the right level. A combination must compete in the correct class to collect qualifying points.
• Check the category. Ponies and horses have separate championships and requirements.
• Read the regulations. The KNHS championship regulations are the deciding authority in case of doubt over qualification.

What does the Hippiade mean for anyone buying a sport horse?

The competition season around the Hippiade is a goldmine of information for buyers. You see horses and ponies performing under pressure, and that often tells you more than an advertising video.

• Look at results, not just promises. A combination that qualifies proves consistent performance across several competitions.
• Look for grassroots suitability. A horse that takes amateurs to the Hippiade is usually honest and easy to ride.
• Look beyond the title. Not every good amateur horse wins gold; rideability, health and temperament matter more to most buyers than a rosette.
• Ask about the competition history. Competition records and results are available on request and give an objective picture.

Looking to search with purpose? Browse the current selection of sport horses for sale or specifically dressage horses for sale.

What does the Hippiade mean for anyone selling a sport horse?

For sellers, the summer around the Hippiade is an opportunity. An impressive competition result increases the value and saleability of your horse or pony.

• Cash in on your results. State placings, qualifying points and level clearly in your advert.
• Sell with evidence. Recent, honest competition footage inspires more confidence than a polished promotional film.
• Timing matters. Around championships, many buyers are actively looking for a horse for the coming season.
• Be transparent. Mention both strengths and points to watch; that speeds up an honest sale.

Ready to sell? You can place an advert easily and reach buyers who are specifically looking for a sport horse or pony.

Buying and selling smartly around the competition season

Use this checklist to make the Hippiade season work in your favour:

1. Define your goal. Are you looking for or selling a grassroots, youth or ambitious competition horse?
2. Gather objective data. Competition results, competition record details and health information.
3. Arrange a pre-purchase exam. Have an independent vet carry out a vetting before you buy.
4. Align the price with the evidence. Justify your asking price or bid with results and level, not gut feeling.
5. Make clear arrangements. Put the purchase, trial ride and any conditions in writing.

A well-founded purchase or sale comes down to evidence: results, a vetting and clear arrangements carry more weight than a good first impression.

Frequently asked questions about the Hippiade 2026

When is the Hippiade 2026?

The Hippiade 2026 is held in August: dressage on 7, 8 and 9 August, driving on 11 August, eventing on 15 August and showjumping on 13, 14 and 16 August.

Where is the Hippiade 2026 held?

The Hippiade 2026 takes place at the Nationaal Hippisch Centrum in Ermelo, the KNHS's permanent championship venue.

Which disciplines are on the programme?

The programme features dressage, showjumping, driving and eventing (the abbreviated designation V&A), split across horse and pony categories.

How do you qualify for the Hippiade?

You qualify through selection competitions and regional championships throughout the season. The exact requirements per level and category are set out in the KNHS championship regulations.

Is a Hippiade horse a good buy?

A horse that qualifies for the Hippiade shows consistent performance at grassroots level. That is a strong signal, but always assess rideability, health and temperament as well through a pre-purchase exam.

Ready for the new season?

Whether you are looking for a future Hippiade talent or want to sell your current horse: do it with the right information. Browse the complete selection of sport horses and ponies for sale or place your own advert today and reach targeted buyers at home and abroad.