All photos copyright Chong Ong

The 23rd International Equestrian Sword Festival opened with fireworks, music and stunts from renowned equestrian showman Mario Luraschi and his team on Thursday at the Qatar Equestrian Federation.

The eight-day tournament, which is being held under the patronage of the Emir, runs through Feb. 27 and features horse shows and races. More than QR25 million is up for grabs in prize money.

The festival culminates on Thursday, where the owner of the winning horse in the Emir’s Silver Sword for Purebred Arabians and the Emir’s Shalfa Trophy for thoroughbreds will be awarded QR2 million and a Range Rover.

A Mercedez-Benz G-Class and QR2 million will go to the winning owner in the HH the Emir’s Sword for Purebred Arabians.

The event is free and open to the public, but formal attire is required. Here’s the full program.

Do you plan to go? Thoughts?