A festive weekend of horses and holiday cheer

Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort transformed into a lively pocket of Christmas spirit over the weekend as riders, families, students and curious visitors gathered for the two-day Christmas Show on 6 and 7 December. The grounds carried an easy festive charm — horses moving between arenas, children tugging at parents, and music drifting gently across the estate, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

The morning programme opened with dressage in the indoor arena, offering a calm and controlled start that set a graceful tone for the day. By late morning, the tempo lifted as show-jumping rounds brought louder cheers and splashes of colour, with fences testing the rhythm and precision of each horse-and-rider pair. Arena polo added a contrasting energy, its fast passes and seamless teamwork drawing spectators closer to the rails.

Show-jumping thrills and Arena Polo highlights

From mid-day onwards, the excitement grew as show-jumping took centre stage. Classes ranged from simple ground poles for beginners to higher accumulator rounds that demanded both accuracy and nerve. Families edged nearer to the arena, eager to follow the action as riders navigated vibrant obstacle courses under a rising chorus of applause.

As early evening approached, focus shifted to the arena polo semi-finals. The faster pace and compact bursts of strategy provided a lively finale, rounding off the day with a sense of spectacle that kept spectators engaged until the last whistle. For many who could not attend the opening day, the identical programme on the second day offered a welcome chance to experience the festivities in full.

Community moments and creative touches

Across the grounds, visitors wandered freely between arenas and open spaces, pausing for refreshments from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf or watching children marvel at the horses. Safety reminders — including a no-pets policy and photography guidelines for minors — were gently upheld throughout the event.

Long-time Bukit Kiara rider Lisa Ingram was among those enjoying a relaxed day with family, adding to the familiar community feel that the resort is known for. Adding a creative twist, sketch artist Stan Lee quietly captured scenes in real time, drawing amused onlookers as he turned fleeting moments into detailed illustrations.

Heritage and inclusiveness

Bukit Kiara’s significance runs deeper than its seasonal events. Once a rubber estate acquired in 1976, it has since evolved into one of Malaysia’s most established equestrian centres, hosting national dressage circuits, show-jumping meets and arena polo exhibitions, as well as non-equestrian events like the Durian Expo Kuala Lumpur in 2019.

Its softer side is equally enduring. Since 1994, the Riding for the Disabled (RDA) programme has offered therapeutic riding for children and adults, fostering confidence, balance and joy. This spirit of inclusiveness continues to shape the resort’s identity.