A Different Springsteen at Verizon Center for Washington International Horse Show (photos)

Celebrating its 56th year, the Washington International Horse Show advertises itself as the country’s leading metropolitan indoor equestrian event, while attracting leading horses and riders from around the nation and the world.

Since 2000, the week-long WIHS has been held at the Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C., and takes place this year from Oct. 21 to Oct. 26. A full roster of equestrian events will cap off on Friday night with the $25,000 International Jumper Puissance, where horses leap over a wall up to and often exceeding seven feet, and on Saturday evening with the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, World Cup Qualifier.

The show’s website — wihs.org — contains the complete schedule of activities, which include community events, Kids’ Day, Barn Night, special exhibitions, shopping and hospitality, as well as ticket information.

View our photos from Wednesday night’s competitions by clicking on the photo icons below. Jessica Springsteen of Colts Neck, N.J., kicked off the first day of international jumper competition with a win, riding Davendy S. Jessica may not yet be as well known as her dad Bruce. (all photos by Jeff Malet)