ABOUT THE FAIR
PFERD Wels is an annual equestrian trade fair that caters both to industry professionals and horse enthusiasts. It is considered one of the most important events in the German-speaking equestrian world. Held at the modern exhibition center in Wels, Upper Austria, the venue impresses with its spacious halls, extensive outdoor areas, and well-developed infrastructure—providing optimal conditions for exhibitors, visitors, and animals alike. The event is organized by Messe Wels GmbH, a seasoned company known for professionally managing trade fairs and events for many years.
The fair stands out for its remarkable diversity of topics. It brings together all aspects of horse breeding, equestrian sports, husbandry, care, and health under one roof, appealing to both experts and curious newcomers. Highlights include the interactive "Stables & Technology" zone, showcasing innovative solutions for stable construction, irrigation systems, and equine wellness, as well as the "Horse Welfare" area, which features expert lectures and personalized consultations at the on-site Medical Center—offering real added value for horse owners, breeders, and veterinarians.
Equestrian sport fans will find plenty to enjoy. The event features a national CSN-A* show jumping competition, Working Equitation contests, vaulting events, and the Western Horse Show Wels, including regional team championships. Complementing the sporting program are sales and breeding showcases such as "A-Pferde Sales", "A-Youngster Sales", and "Best of Pony", where warmbloods and ponies are presented and marketed.
Another major attraction is the evening show Night of the Horse – It’s Magic!. International performers such as Kenzie Dysli, Laury Tisseur, and the CAVAL Show captivate the audience with liberty dressage, acrobatics, and spectacular performances. Live training sessions and horsemanship demonstrations by renowned trainers like Bernd Hackl and Kerstin Rester offer practical insights into respectful and effective horse handling.
Beyond the specialist program, the fair also provides a rich shopping experience. The Shopping Plaza offers high-quality riding apparel, equipment, and accessories, while the themed "Western Town" creates an immersive environment for Western riding fans. Families with children are well catered for in the Kids’ World area, where interactive activities like hobby horsing and pony rides introduce younger visitors to the world of horses in a fun and engaging way.
PFERD Wels successfully combines expert knowledge, hands-on experiences, entertainment, and shopping, all within the outstanding facilities of the Wels exhibition center. Each year, it attracts thousands of visitors from Austria and abroad and is considered an essential meeting point for anyone professionally or personally involved with horses.
The PFERD in Wels took place from Thursday, 14. May to Sunday, 17. May 2026.