Calgary, Alberta—Sept. 8  Â
The Spruce Meadows venue has become iconic, and for good reason. The showgrounds are meticulously designed and maintained, and hordes of spectators flock there every week of competition.
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We took a bit of a walking tour to let you see what it’s all about…
The ring as seen from the in-gate. Photo by Molly Sorge
The celebrities—the horses competing in the big classes—are kept under tight security in the FEI restricted barns. Photo by Molly Sorge
This is the sight riders and horses see as they walk under the famous clock tower on the way into the ring. Photo by Molly Sorge
A statue of the famous late jumper Hickstead, who grew up competing at Spruce Meadows, graces the grounds in front of the Canada House. Photo by Molly Sorge
The past winners of Spruce Meadows’ signature grand prix class are memorialized. Who will fill in the 2017 line? Photo by Molly Sorge
Hickstead jumped at Spruce Meadows for many years and is remembered with this statue. Photo by Molly Sorge
Wide paths criss-cross the Spruce Meadows grounds, which are full of grassy areas and trees. Photo by Molly Sorge
Spectators start staking out their real estate for watching on the grassy berm early in the day. Photo by Molly Sorge
Whimsical statues dot the Spruce Meadows grounds. Photo by Molly Sorge
A little shop offers all things British—traditional British foods and souvenirs. Photo by Molly Sorge
Inside are all kinds of British culinary delights, including items like meat pies, sausage rolls and Scotch eggs. Photo by Molly Sorge
Young show jumping fans can hitch a pony ride by the Spruce Meadows main barn (helmets are provided!) Photo by Molly Sorge
The line for pony rides. Photo by Molly Sorge
There’s lots of shopping to do at Spruce Meadows. Photo by Molly Sorge
Anyone need a $1,500 mourning block? Photo by Molly Sorge
No spectator goes hungry at Spruce Meadows. Photo by Molly Sorge
There’s plenty of non-equine entertainment as well, including diving dock dogs. Photo by Molly Sorge
These minis are equine ambassadors living in the center of the shopping area. Photo by Molly Sorge
Need a lift around the show grounds? You can hitch a ride on a wagon! Photo by Molly Sorge
The shops at Spruce Meadows are sited in cute little tents. Photo by Molly Sorge
Important links: All the COTH Spruce Meadows coverage | orders of go and results  | live results  | live streamingÂ
