New Year's Gala
Experience an unforgettable evening at the New Year’s Gala of the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, where the tradition and elegance of classical equestrianism come to life. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the 18th-century Portuguese court, surrounded by Alter Real horses, gala riders, and moments of pure artistry and emotion.
A Journey into the Splendour of the Portuguese Court
Celebrate the arrival of 2027 and join us for a special gala performance by the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art. An unforgettable spectacle that recreates a moment from the Portuguese court of the 18th century. At this New Year’s Gala Concert, the performance will also feature the 3Actos Orchestra.
With a duration of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, the performance sees the riders dressed in formal gala attire, featuring the distinctive black felt tricorne hat, a long burgundy velvet coat with a black collar and gold-and-black trim, and black leather gaiters.
The Lusitano horses of the Alter Real breed appear with their manes braided in the traditional Portuguese three-strand style and adorned with silk ribbons. They are ridden with traditional Portuguese saddles covered in antelope or suede leather and perform exercises characteristic of the Baroque period, including the “high airs” and “court games” — tournaments practised between the 18th and 19th centuries on festive occasions.
A flagship of Portuguese Equestrian Art, inscribed by UNESCO on the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list and regarded as one of the finest equestrian academies in the world, the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art continues the tradition of the Equestrian Academy founded by King João V in the 18th century. Its performances recreate one of the favourite pastimes of the court of the time: equestrianism.
The preparations for the Gala can be observed at the Páteo da Nora, in front of the Henrique Calado Riding Arena, one hour before the performance begins.
Photography and video recording are permitted without flash at the Páteo da Nora. Photography and video recording are not permitted inside the Henrique Calado Riding Arena.
More information
- Location: Picadeiro Henrique Calado, Calçada da Ajuda, Lisbon
- Dates: 8 January 2027
- Time: 21:30 (Páteo da Nora visit: 20:30)
- Audience: Open to all
- Accessibility: Limited access to boxes and south seating area
- Additional information: Private performances can be arranged at alternative times or locations