Join us on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Wesley Clover Parks as we celebrate the 5th anniversary of Spurs & Sparkles presented by RBC Royal Bank in support of the Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation.
This high-energy summer fundraiser brings together sport, entertainment, and community for one unforgettable night. Enjoy exceptional company, gourmet cuisine, and premium local beverages while taking in thrilling equestrian entertainment.
The highlight of the night? The Get Up & Gallop race: an obstacle course like you’ve never seen before. Local business leaders and celebrities join forces with internationally awarded equestrian athletes to take on a dynamic mix of challenges, from show jumping to high-speed golf cart racing. Cheer on your favourites, get involved in the spirited Calcutta, and help raise the stakes for an incredible cause.
Throughout the night, every ticket and donation directly supports critical equipment and top priorities at Queensway Carleton Hospital—helping ensure exceptional care for our community, close to home.
Spurs & Sparkles has raised more than $360,000 for local charities to date, and with excitement building for this milestone 5th anniversary, tickets are expected to sell out quickly!
Join us and be part of an unforgettable night of sport, entertainment, and generosity. Together, we can make a difference.
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Spurs & Sparkles is primarily designed as an adult-focused fundraising gala featuring cocktails, entertainment, food stations, and our signature Get Up & Gallop race.
While there is no formal age restriction, the event is best suited for adults and most attendees are 19+. Children are welcome; however, we kindly ask that they remain under the supervision of a parent or guardian at all times.
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There is no formal dress code, but most guests embrace the spirit of the evening with cocktail chic with a splash of sparkles and gold (to celebrate QCH’s 50th anniversary!).
Think cocktail dresses, stylish jumpsuits, sport coats, summer suits, and a little extra sparkle. The event takes place on grassy fields, so stiletto heels are not recommended.
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Not at all!
Spurs & Sparkles is designed to be entertaining for everyone, whether you're a lifelong equestrian fan or experiencing the sport for the very first time.
Our emcees, Sophie Moroz and Jeff Hopper of Sophie & Jeff in the Morning on MOVE 100, will guide guests through the Get Up & Gallop action. You'll also be surrounded by plenty of equestrian enthusiasts and industry experts who are always happy to share their passion for the sport.
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The Calcutta is a fan-favourite fundraising tradition that lets guests become part of the Get Up & Gallop excitement. Participants can select a team to support before the race begins, then sit back and cheer them on for a chance to win fantastic prizes and, of course, some serious bragging rights.
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The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with cocktails, food stations, and time to connect with fellow guests, explore the venue, and participate in the Calcutta before the Get Up & Gallop race begins.
The Get Up & Gallop race starts at 7:00 p.m.
We recommend arriving at the start of cocktail hour to make the most of the Spurs & Sparkles experience.
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Complimentary parking is available on-site for all guests.
Event volunteers will be on hand to help direct you upon arrival.
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Yes! Spurs & Sparkles is an outdoor event but don’t worry, it never rains at Spurs & Sparkles! If Mother Nature has other plans, the event takes place under a 10,000-square-foot hospitality tent, ensuring guests stay comfortable and protected from the elements.
Reigning champs
Team RBC ROYAL BANK
THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED
Get Up & Gallop
As you mingle under spacious hospitality tent overlooking the grass Grand Prix field, you’ll enjoy the wildly entertaining Get Up & Gallop event. It’s off to the races in this rousing competition, where local business leaders driving golf carts team up with distinguished and internationally awarded equestrians on horseback to compete for the best time in an orchestrated obstacle course.
MEET YOUR EMCEES
Guiding us through the evening will be our extraordinary Emcees Sophie Moroz and Jeff Hopper, hosts of ‘Sophie & Jeff in the Morning’ on MOVE 100.
Wake up with Sophie & Jeff in the Morning on MOVE 100 – where Ottawa starts its day with real talk, good vibes, and non-stop laughs. They’re your connection to what’s happening in the city, the music you love, and the stories that make your mornings fun. Whether you’re in the car, at home, or grabbing coffee, Sophie & Jeff bring the energy to get your day started.
Calcutta
Guests can get in on the Get Up & Gallop action by participating in the Calcutta ! Winners will earn bragging rights and walk away with incredible prizes!